Strider Farm facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Strider Farm
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Property entrance
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 Location in West Virginia
Location in the United States
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| Location | Jefferson County, West Virginia |
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| Nearest city | Harpers Ferry, West Virginia |
| Built | 1790 |
| Architectural style | Federal |
| NRHP reference No. | 87002524 |
| Added to NRHP | February 1, 1988 |
The Strider Farm is an old farm located near Harpers Ferry, West Virginia. It played an important role during the American Civil War, a big conflict that happened in the United States from 1861 to 1865. Because of its location on a small hill, the farm was a key spot for controlling a very important railroad line. This railroad, the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, connected major cities like Baltimore and Washington, D.C., to Martinsburg, West Virginia.
The Farm's History
The main house at Strider Farm was built around 1790. It was constructed in the Federal style, which was a popular way to design buildings in the United States during the late 1700s and early 1800s. This style often used simple, balanced shapes and stone or brick materials. The house is two and a half stories tall and made of strong stone.
In 1880, a small addition was built onto the house, also using stone. A barn was also built around the same time. The farm was originally built by Philip Strider, and his family became well-known in Jefferson County.
Strider Farm During the Civil War
The Strider Farm saw a lot of action during the American Civil War. Its location made it a valuable spot for both sides.
Key Events at the Farm
From September 13 to 17, 1862, soldiers from the Confederate army used a position near the front yard of the house. From there, their artillery (large guns) fired at Federal troops. This shows how close the fighting came to the farm.
Later in the war, in 1864, the Strider Farm house was used as a headquarters. A headquarters is a central place where military leaders plan their strategies and direct their troops. For a time, Federal Major General Horatio Wright used the house as his main base of operations. This highlights the farm's strategic importance in the conflict.
