In a section of the Potomac River known as the “Paw Paw Bends” lies the town of Paw Paw, West Virginia, named after the native fruit tree common in the area. The earliest Europeans in the area were fur traders and farmers. Colonial-era travelers, including George Washington, forded the river here. During the French and Indian War, British General Edward Braddock’s army camped on the ridge above the settlement. In the 1860’s, 16,000 Union troops were stationed at the same location to defend the B&O Railroad from Confederate attack. Today the location is the town’s peaceful Camp Hill Cemetery.
Historically, Paw Paw was known for both its tannery and orchards. In 1868, 23 years before the town was incorporated, the Paw Paw Tannery began operations. At its zenith it was the largest producer of industrial belt leather in the world. In 1912 the Consolidated Orchard Company was founded, and by 1924 their “Mountaineer” apple had been patented and was
being shipped around the world.
Nearby Landmarks
Paw Paw’s Welcome Center – located in Paw Paw’s Riverfront Park – serves as an informational stop for visitors exploring the historic town, local area, and the C&O Canal National Historical Park, and offers brochures, including a self-guided walking tour brochure of the Paw Paw’s historic sites. The town is home to four individually-listed properties on the National Register of Historic Places, and several others that have been deemed eligible for listing. In Paw Paw, and within a mile of the C&O Canal Towpath and the historic Paw Paw Tunnel, visitors will find several businesses making made to order meals, a variety of different lodging options, and a canoe outfitter.
Local Events and Activities
Paw Paw is home to the annual Pawpaw Festival. Held the second Saturday in September, the festival celebrates America’s largest native fruit with music, food, and informative talks. The town’s William H. Norton Memorial Day Parade and Car Show has been held the Saturday of Memorial Day Weekend for more than 60 years! Magnolia Market, a festive famer’s market, is held on Friday evenings from 4:30 to 7:00 pm at Riverfront Park. Paw Paw is also a great spot for paddling, biking, and hiking. The Potomac River’s Paw Paw Bends are great to explore by canoe from a put-in spot adjacent to the Riverfront Park. Miles of newly mapped gravel trails, as well as the C&O Canal towpath, beckon both cyclists and hikers to take some time off the beaten path.
Parking and Trail Access
Parking for the C&O Canal Towpath is available at a parking lot near the campground at the the Paw Paw Tunnel. The town also has day parking at its Riverfront Park. The Town of Paw Paw is less than a one-mile bike ride or walk from the C&O Canal Towapth, much of it along a dedicated, paved path.
