A visit to Bennerhassett Island is a journey back in time to America’s original Wild, Wild West. Ride the graceful sternwheel paddleboat “Island Belle” down the Ohio River from Parkersburg to Blennerhassett Island and learn about the tragic tale of Harman Blennerhassett and his wife Margaret. The Irish aristocrats settled on the island in 1798 and constructed the largest and grandest mansion in the American West where they lived a luxurious lifestyle hosting many famous people of the time, including Aaron Burr, former vice president of the United States under President Thomas Jefferson. Blennerhassett allowed Burr the use of his island paradise as a base of operations for his infamous plan to raise a militia and separate the Louisiana Territory from the American Union. When President Jefferson received word of Burr’s plan to establish a new country in the American southwest he demanded that Burr be charged with treason, a crime punishable by death.
Visitors to the Island cruise down the beautiful Ohio River from downtown Parkersburg on an old-fashioned paddlewheel-boat. Once on the island, docents dressed in period attire tell the intriguing story of the ill-fated Blennerhassett’s as you tour a beautiful reconstruction of the mansion that was the most spectacular home on America’s first frontier.
After touring the mansion, you can take a relaxing stroll through the extensive groves of soaring Black Walnut Trees and the hundred-year-old Sycamores, which dominate the northern end of the Island and create a beautiful park-like setting. Kids and grownups alike will love the covered wagon tours and being introduced to the individual horses that each have their own unique personality. A visit to Blennerhassett Island is a fun and informative adventure for the entire family.
Uncover other hidden historical gems of bygone days in one of West Virginia’s most important cities.
Explore Henderson Hall, a perfectly preserved, Victorian-era Italianate-style home with 29 rooms, one of America’s finest and most complete historic homes.
Discover the impact of West Virginia’s oil and gas industry in fueling the industrial revolution at the nationally recognized Oil and Gas Museum in downtown Parkersburg. Take a self-guided walking tour of Julia Ann Square, the state’s largest and oldest residential historic district with more than 120 Victorian-era homes.
Step into the past at the Blennerhassett Museum of Regional History, featuring a collection of local artifacts, portraits, and a display about the lives of the Blennerhassett family. Breathe in an outstanding view of Parkersburg and the Ohio River at Fort Boreman Historical Park, a hill with a history dating back to the Civil War.
Greater Parkersburg also offers exciting outdoor adventures, family-friendly activities, wonderful dining venues, and unique shopping. Plan your visit today at GreaterParkersburg.com or call 800-752-4982.
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