Ernst closes out writer-in-residence stay

Kathleen Ernst sits on the grounds of what was once Storer College, while sharing her experiences as the writer-in-residence at the National Park. Toni Milbourne
HARPERS FERRY — Author Kathleen Ernst recently completed a month-long stay in Harpers Ferry, as the writer-in-residence with the National Park Service.
The artist-in-residence program was begun in the 1870s, according to Leah Tabler, public affairs specialist for Harpers Ferry National Historical Park.
“It was part of the Hudson River Valley Partners movement to show people back east what was happening,” Tabler said.
Ernst explained in a recent interview that her main genre is historical fiction, so Harpers Ferry presented itself well to what could show up in the best-selling author’s future writings. While Ernst said the small town is certainly filled with much history, there are many aspects that are less well-known than others.
“The episode of the capture of Harpers Ferry and the Civil War are well-known,” Ernst said. “This time I have been focusing on lesser-known eras of park history.”
As part of the program, Ernst researched extensively a variety of topics that included what happened on Camp Hill at Storer College as well as a focus on tourism in general in the 1880s and 1890s. She commented specifically about information she found on hotels in the area, ones that were on the campus of the college as well as privately owned in the community.
“The ability to walk the grounds here was very powerful,” Ernst said as she looked around at the grounds that once housed Storer College. “I can imagine Storer College football players here, while also seeing Civil War soldiers camped.”
“This town has always been very inspiring,” Ernst said, mentioning her first book, “The Night Riders of Harpers Ferry,” was set here.
“I’ve had a great relationship with the park service,” she added.
In addition to the research Ernst conducted while serving as the writer-in-residence, she also worked with Shepherd University to hold two writing workshops. The workshops, offered in a virtual format, allowed attendees from coast to coast to take part.
Harpers Ferry and Jefferson County in general were familiar to Ernst, who grew up in the Baltimore, Md. area and spent summers near Harpers Ferry.
“I am likely to incorporate the research I’ve done into an upcoming historical fiction work,” Ernst said.
The author has published more than 30 works of mystery or historical fiction, as well as nonfiction, for adults and young readers. Her books have sold more than 1.6 million copies.
For more information about the artist-in-residence program at Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, visit the park’s website or contact the park’s volunteer program coordinator, Samantha Zurbuch, at 304-535-5017.