[2] The historic district is representative of significant developments in architecture, social history, and industry that occurred in Morgantown and the surrounding region between 1795 and 1945.

Zackquill Morgan, the town's founder, received a grant in 1784 for 50 acres on land at the junction of Deckers Creek and the river.

[4] The town grew slowly throughout the early nineteenth century, with development based largely on the exportation of agricultural and industrial products north along the river.

Waitman T. Willey, a local lawyer, lived in the town and was a leader in the movement to create the state of West Virginia.

The Confederate Jones- Imboden raiders occupied the town briefly during the war in an attempt to capture Willey, but he had fled before their arrival.

During this time, the town also became a center of education with the creation of West Virginia University based on earlier academies and seminary schools.

The district is bounded on the north by Willey Street which separates the downtown area from the campus of West Virginia University.