About Hampshire Heritage Days

In 1979 members of the Rotary Club of Romney organized a small display and demonstration at Hampshire Park on River Road to showcase local heritage crafters. These artisans produced handmade items, using no electricity, much as the early European immigrants who settled in Hampshire County had made. 

In conjunction with these annual craft displays, a favorite sport locally known as a "riding" tournament, was an American version of jousting, involving riding at full gallop to impale three small rings from successive supports with a lance. The contestants were known as "knights" and carried upon their lances the honor of the community they represetned at each tournament.  The local champion, who went on to defend the honor of the county, was appropriately dubbed "Knight of Olde Hampshire." 

Desiring to recognize outstanding contributions to the county and its people by a native or adopted Hampshire Countian, The Rotary began bestowing the accolade "Knight of Olde Hampshire," during Hampshire Heritage Days in 1980. The contributions of the recipients have been outstanding service to Hampshire County, to West Virginia, and to the United States.

The event moved into Romney in 1991, to provide easier access for residents from other parts of the county.
After the 1998 Heritage Days, Rotary handed off organization of the event to a community committee, headed by Extension Agent, Carol Winland. When a job transfer caused her to move, the Hampshire Heritage Days Committee moved under the umbrella of the Hampshire County Chamber of Commerce.

In 2006 the Committee transferred under the Hampshire County Convention & Visitors Bureau, to better promote the event to prospective visitors from outside the community. The 27th Annual Hampshire Heritage Days expanded significantly and has been widely acclaimed as one of the best, if not THE best ever.  The event was a testament to what a community can do when it really pulls together.  The momentum achieved is being leveraged to line up a still more enjoyable Heritage Days in 2007.

Hampshire Heritage Days Committee
Hampshire County Convention & Visitors Bureau, 426 E. Main St., Romney, WV 26757
304-822-7477 • www.hampshireheritagedays.info