Martinsburg is a city in the Eastern Panhandle region of West Virginia, United States. It is the county seat of Berkeley County and is located approximately 80 miles northwest of Washington, D.C. The city has a population of around 17,000 people. Martinsburg was established in 1778 and was originally settled as a fort during the American Revolutionary War. Today, the city has a historic downtown area with many preserved buildings from the 19th century. Martinsburg is known for its rich history, including its involvement in the Civil War and its location along the B&O Railroad. The city offers a variety of recreational activities, including parks, hiking trails, and a nearby national forest.