Mills Group to breathe new life into historic courthouse in Martinsburg, West Virginia

MARTINSBURG, W.Va. — Two of the most recognizable landmarks in historic downtown Martinsburg are about to get a second life, thanks to one of the state's best-known architectural and preservation design firms.

The former Berkeley County Courthouse at 100 West King Street and its neighboring annex, long symbols of the county’s civic past, will be transformed into a regional history museum and nonprofit hub under the direction of The Mills Group.

Commissioned by the Berkeley County Museum Commission, the project is being hailed as both a preservation effort and an investment in the county’s cultural and economic future.

Preserving the Past, Preparing for the Future

The courthouse, long the center of government in Berkeley County, has stood as a witness to centuries of change. Now, through careful rehabilitation, it will house exhibits, offices, and public programming designed to connect residents and visitors with the region’s story.

The Mills Group plans to restore historic details while equipping the buildings with modern standards for accessibility, safety, and energy efficiency. Michael Mills, speaking for the firm, called the work “a balance of modern design solutions with respect for historic character,” emphasizing the company’s philosophy of preserving heritage without sacrificing function.

The Mills Group’s Preservation Expertise

With more than 18 years of experience, the Mills Group is known across West Virginia for projects that blend architectural restoration with community use. Its team of architects, planners, and historians frequently prepares feasibility studies and historic structure assessments, and it has guided multiple properties onto the National Register of Historic Places.

Beyond design, the firm also develops interpretive strategies and long-term maintenance plans to ensure that historic buildings remain viable for decades to come. Past projects include revitalizing depots, cultural centers, and civic buildings—making the Martinsburg courthouse and annex a natural fit for their expertise.

The Role of the Museum Commission

The Berkeley County Museum Commission oversees projects that preserve and promote the county’s history. Its ten members bring backgrounds in fundraising, education, tourism, and museum operations. Meeting monthly, the commission ensures that cultural priorities guide decision-making.

By selecting the Mills Group, the commission signaled its commitment to combining architectural preservation with public accessibility. The commission envisions the courthouse and annex as living institutions—spaces that educate, inspire, and serve the community.

A County Steeped in History

Berkeley County itself has a storied past. Established in 1772, it is the oldest county in present-day West Virginia. Early settler Morgan Morgan built his cabin here in 1726, creating what is believed to be the state’s first permanent European settlement.

The county also played a pivotal role during the American Civil War. Martinsburg, home to key facilities on the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, changed hands repeatedly as Union and Confederate forces battled for control. Remnants of that turbulent era remain woven into the community's fabric.

A Growing Community

In recent years, Berkeley County has emerged as the fastest-growing county in West Virginia. More than 126,000 residents now call it home, drawn by its blend of small-town charm, economic opportunity, and proximity to Washington, D.C. and northern Virginia. With a median age of 39 and strong rates of homeownership, the county reflects both stability and growth.

Community investments—ranging from recreational facilities to cultural institutions—highlight Berkeley County’s commitment to balancing heritage with progress. The courthouse project is the latest example of that balance.

Looking Ahead

The rehabilitation of the courthouse and annex is expected to strengthen downtown Martinsburg, both as a cultural destination and as a hub for nonprofit work. For the Mills Group, the project embodies its mission to “design with respect,” ensuring that architecture tells the story of the people it serves.

For the commission, it's an opportunity to deepen the county’s connection to its past while creating new spaces for education and community life.

“These buildings will continue to tell the story of the region’s history,” Mills said. “But just as importantly, they will become places where the community can gather, learn, and grow together.”