Jefferson County Historical Society members can be seen here, visiting Elmwood Cemetery's Presbyterian Grave Yard in 2018. From left, are Doug Perks, Jim Gibson, Barbara Gibson, Nick Kercheval, Jeff Hendricks, Betty Lowe, Barbara, Nickell and Dickie Brown. Courtesy photo

CHARLES TOWN — The Jefferson County Historical Society is currently seeking new members to join. The goal of the society is to preserve Jefferson County’s history.

The cost of a one-year membership is only $20. Memberships sent to the society that are postmarked by Sept. 30 will come with a Dec. 2020 copy of the annual Magazine of the Jefferson County Historical Society.

In addition to the membership drive going on, the society has also recently received a shipment of the book, “Between The Shenandoah and The Potomac.”

Eric Jenkins, a member of the society’s board of directors, explained that the book is packed full of information regarding homes, large and small, across the county, including snippets of the homes’ principal histories.

“Many people have been searching for the book on Amazon and eBay,” Jenkins said. “It ranges there from $100 to $150, but the society is selling a hardback copy for $45, which includes shipping.”

A copy of the book, he said, would be the perfect addition to any local historian’s personal library, and would make a great gift for the upcoming holiday season.

For those considering membership in the JCHS, checks can made out to the Jefferson County Historical Society and mailed to P.O. Box 485, Charles Town, WV 25414. The same can be done for orders of “Between The Shenandoah and The Potomac.” In addition, individuals can visit http://jeffersonhistoricalwv.org/ to place online orders for the book or pay membership fees.

Membership benefits, in addition to receiving the December magazine, include receipt of the Guardian, the society’s newsletter, which is published three times per year. Other membership benefits include invitations to the annual JCHS summer picnic and two members’ meetings, featuring presentations by noted historians.