Ker Place is reopening for tours on Saturday, March 15th from 11am-3pm. The federal-period Georgian-style house was built from 1799 to 1803 for prosperous merchant farmer John Shepherd Ker; his wife, Agnes Corbin Ker; and their family. It is described by the Virginia Historic Landmarks Commission as “the finest and most elaborate Federal mansion on Virginia’s Eastern Shore” and “one of the Shore’s major architectural landmarks.”

The elegant home has been restored to its original appearance as noted in the 1806 John Ker inventory. Rich colors, detailed plaster work, and finely crafted woodwork are found throughout the house. Period antique furnishings create an authentic ambiance of plantation life in the early 19th century on the Eastern Shore. There are also tales and relics of general Eastern Shore history spread throughout the museum.

Guided tours with a docent will be available, or if you prefer, enjoy a self-led audio tour through the Shore History app click here to download it.

Local historian and board member of Shore History Dr. David Scott discusses the homes and architecture that make up the Eastern Shore.

This event is free and open to the public. Dr. Scott’s lecture will be hosted at Ker Place in Onancock Friday, March 21st starting at 6pm. Seating is first come first serve.

Join author C.L. Marshall for an evening of Eastern Shore storytelling.

Marshall, a veteran journalist and former magazine editor, is also the author of Chesapeake Bay Duck Hunting Tales and two cookbooks. He now runs Tangier Sound Charters, offering fishing and scenic boat tours.

The event will take place in the backyard of Ker Place, weather permitting. Books will be available for purchase, and Shore History will provide beer and wine by donation. Free and open to the public.

Join us for a FREE concert on the lawn at Ker Place with live jams by Hampton Roads’ favorite Snackbar Jones from 5:30pm-8:30pm Friday, May 23rd. Shore History will have margaritas, beer, wine, and water for sale. Bring a chair and a friend!

Shore History’s seventh annual all-you-can-eat Crab Crackin’ at Ker Place from 4 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 16. On the front lawn of 69 Market Street, home of the Onancock landmark, Shore History will host the feast to showcase the Eastern Shore’s agricultural and aquacultural bounty. Tickets will be posted for sale soon.

The menu includes steamed crabs; steamed clams; sweet corn; barbecue; coleslaw; beer and wine (limited quantity of beer and wine included, with additional available for purchase.) The emailed order confirmation will serve as your ticket so be sure to bring it with you on Aug. 16. We can’t wait to crack some crabs with you!