During the Civil War, Harpers Ferry became a significant Union army camp, headquarters site, and logistical supply base

After serving as a U.S. army camp in the late 18th century, Camp Hill, situated on a gentle slope above Harpers Ferry, has since been home to expansive houses for military officials. However, when the Civil War started, these mansions were quickly transformed into administrative offices and medical facilities; Camp Hill once more served as an army camp.

The Confederate army took control of the camp in the spring of 1861, but General Joseph E. Johnston, the garrison commander, ordered it to be evacuated soon. The 2nd Massachusetts Infantry soon took control of it following that. In September 1862, when Stonewall Jackson attacked Harpers Ferry, the Union troops were supported by Camp Hill, which had been built by both Union and Confederate forces and was naturally sheltered by steep banks. The Army of the Potomac marched to Harpers Ferry on September 24, nine days after the engagement, and erected their tents once more on Camp Hill and the nearby Bolivar Heights, where they remained motionless until November. Despite the garrison's surrender following Jackson's attack. Afterward, while Gen. As a result, Harpers Ferry is considered a significant Union army camp.