Information Panel: River Wall

This wall helped separate the inner basin from the river for cotton mills.

NPS / Claire Hassler

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Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits

The Harpers Ferry & Shenandoah Manufacturing Company built this stone wall about 1848 as part of the hydraulic system for its two cotton mills and other shops downstream. This extensive retaining wall formed part of the berm separating the inner basin from the river. Water flowed from the inner basin into the tunnels which led to the factories.
Photo Caption: Virginius Island circa 1892, showing the inner basin and the river wall.