Loosing our History

Disappearing Sites in Hampshire County

The Stone Fountain on US Rt. 50 on Cooper Mountain in 2004

In the early days of the automobile cars tended to overheat on long or steep inclines. In the mountains there were various places where one could stop and get water to add to the car's radiator. Modern cars seldom need such service so the places used long ago are now forgotten and neglected. This photo from September 2004 does not show the severe deterioration and vandalism this site has since suffered.

These two photographs were taken on July 19, 2007. At this time the sign interpreting the site has completely disappeared from the background; it is nowhere to be found. Trees and shrubs engulf the stone walls and surround the stone piling. Before long the trees will undermine the wall and weeds will break the mortar. Soon there will be almost nothing left.

The Black Schoolhouse in Romney

The old black schoolhouse in Romney has been used for a number of years as a supply depot for the Board of Education. Perhaps it is time to recall the history of black education in our county.

We would appreciate help in compiling a history of this area south of Capon Bridge.