News Release
NPS / K. Southern
News Release Date: September 3, 2026
Contact:
NCR Communications
HARPERS FERRY, WV — Step into the history as Harpers Ferry National Historical Park commemorates the 164th anniversary of the Battle of Harpers Ferry with four days of special programs from September 12–15, 2026. Programs explore the people and events surrounding the battle, which resulted in the largest surrender of U.S. troops until World War II, as well as the battle’s broader implications.
Event Schedule
Saturday, 9/12, 1:00 p.m.: Under Fire: The Battle of Harpers Ferry, 1862. Join the Baltimore Light Artillery volunteers and park rangers for artillery demonstrations at 1:00, 2:00, and 3:00 p.m. Experience the sights, sounds, and smell of roaring cannons to better understand how field artillery helped Confederate forces under Stonewall Jackson capture the U.S. garrison.
This program includes the firing of a replica Civil War cannon. Please prepare children and pets for very loud noises.
Pick up the special event shuttle at the park visitor center to get to and from Bolivar Heights. The shuttle will run from noon until 4:30 p.m.
Sunday, 9/13, 9:00 a.m.: A Terrible Engagement of Small Arms: The Fight for Maryland Heights. Follow in the footsteps of U.S. soldiers as they rushed to defend Maryland Heights during this strenuous, ranger-guided hike to the Stone Fort. The total trail length is a minimum of 6 miles.
Due to construction on the Goodloe Byron Memorial Footbridge, participants should meet the park ranger at 9:00 am at the Visitor Center, 171 Shoreline Drive and shuttle over to Maryland Heights.
Sunday, 9/13, Between 2:00 and 4:00 p.m.: Seeking Freedom. During the Civil War, about 2,000 enslaved people sought freedom amongst the U.S. Army lines in Harpers Ferry. Following the U.S. garrison’s surrender, freedom seekers who had sought refuge within U.S. Army lines faced re-enslavement.
Learn the stories of 13 women and children among them and their attempt to claim freedom. Visitors should meet at the John Brown Fort in historic Lower Town.
Monday, 9/14, 2 p.m.: Like a Disturbed Anthill. After losing Maryland Heights, U.S. troops could do little but endure as Confederate forces bombarded their positions with artillery. Explore their fate as Confederate General Jackson sought to bring the Battle of Harpers Ferry to a swift conclusion during this half-mile, ranger-guided walk. Participants should meet at the Bolivar Heights parking lot.
Tuesday, 9/15, 11:00 a.m. The Fate of Harpers Ferry was Sealed. Take a one-mile, flat hike with a ranger to learn the key role the Chambers Farm played on Sept. 15, 1862. This will include a 1-mile, easy hike. Participants should meet at the Murphy-Chambers Farm parking lot.
All programs are included with park admission. For hikes and walking programs, bring comfortable footwear, water, and sun protection. More details are available at nps.gov/hafe.
nps.gov
About the National Park Service. Established in 1916, the National Park Service preserves America’s most treasured natural and cultural places for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of current and future generations. Learn more at nps.gov.
Last updated: September 3, 2026