Council proclaims John Brown Day, adopts resolution supporting Harpers Ferry National Historical Park

Harpers Ferry Town Council on Oct. 13 voted unanimously to adopt a John Brown Day proclamation recognizing Oct. 16 and also approved a separate resolution expressing the town's support for Harpers Ferry National Historical Park.

Storm introduced the John Brown Day proclamation, which describes John Brown's raid on Oct. 16, 1859, acknowledges the event's historical role as a catalyst of the Civil War, and recognizes the town's connection to that history. Councilors debated framing and the proclamation's tone; members emphasized that adopting the proclamation does not condone violent acts in history but rather acknowledges the town's historical role and the public record. The proclamation was approved 6-0.

Council then considered a resolution supporting Harpers Ferry National Historical Park and its role in preserving and interpreting the town's full historical record. Councilors praised park leadership for managing difficult public discussions and cited the park's economic and cultural significance to the town. The resolution passed 6-0.

Why it matters: The actions reaffirm the town's historical identity and formalize support for the national park as a steward of local history; councilors said the proclamations also reflect the town's interest in interpreting history accurately for visitors and residents.

Council actions recorded

- Motion: Approve the John Brown Day proclamation recognizing Oct. 16 as John Brown Day in Harpers Ferry. Outcome: approved 6-0. - Motion: Adopt a resolution of support for Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. Outcome: approved 6-0.

Implementation notes: Council members indicated desire to coordinate events and outreach tied to John Brown Day and to maintain ongoing partnership with park leadership on commemoration and interpretation.