By the 20th century, Harpers Ferry was facing a decline, largely due to ongoing flooding. Harpers Ferry National Historical Park was created by the U.S. government in 1944 to honor the significant history that occurred there. It receives more than 300,000 visitors per year, making it West Virginia's most visited historic site. Today, Harpers Ferry is a major destination for tourists even as the town itself remains a quiet, historic community.