Ferry Plantation House
Step into history at Ferry Plantation House, a 1830 manor known for its rich local lore, vintage artifacts, and reported paranormal activity.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
More tour availability
Ferry Plantation House
Best Time
More tour availability
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into history at Ferry Plantation House, a 1830 manor known for its rich local lore, vintage artifacts, and reported paranormal activity.
"This landmark is very hands-on, and the tour guides are absolute treasures of knowledge!"
Book House Tours Ahead
House tours have limited slots. Book online in advance to secure your spot! :ticket:
Ask About Witchduck Origins
Inquire about the fascinating story behind the Witchduck area's name from your knowledgeable guide. :bulb:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Historic Manor House
Inside the main house
Step back in time in this 1830 brick manor, filled with vintage items and stories of its past inhabitants.
Grace Sherwood's Story
Throughout the house tour
Learn about Grace Sherwood, the last person in Virginia to be legally accused of witchcraft. A fascinating local legend!
Paranormal Encounters
Various rooms, especially upstairs
Experience the house's reputation for hauntings; some visitors report unexplained phenomena like shaking chandeliers.
The Hallowed Tree
On the grounds
See a unique, ancient tree that has been hollowed out but continues to thrive with new roots.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Visit in Advance
Explore the Grounds Freely
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book House Tours Ahead
House tours have limited slots. Book online in advance to secure your spot! :ticket:
Ask About Witchduck Origins
Inquire about the fascinating story behind the Witchduck area's name from your knowledgeable guide. :bulb:
Hands-On History
Enjoy a rare 'hands-on' historical experience where you can touch many items. :handpointingup:
Consider Membership
Annual membership is a bargain for history buffs and includes a great newsletter. :moneybag:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book House Tours Ahead
House tours have limited slots. Book online in advance to secure your spot! :ticket:
Ask About Witchduck Origins
Inquire about the fascinating story behind the Witchduck area's name from your knowledgeable guide. :bulb:
Hands-On History
Enjoy a rare 'hands-on' historical experience where you can touch many items. :handpointingup:
Consider Membership
Annual membership is a bargain for history buffs and includes a great newsletter. :moneybag:
Respect the Spirits
Guides mention spirits are positive; approach with respect and an open mind. :ghost:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Ferry Plantation House for its rich history, engaging tours, and unique hands-on experience. Guides are frequently commended for their knowledge and ability to captivate audiences of all ages. While the paranormal aspect is a significant draw, the historical significance and the stories of its inhabitants are equally compelling. Some visitors note the limited hours and the need for advance booking.
"This house and site are a must see if you are interested in local Virginia Beach history, especially if you want to learn more about Grace Sherwood. The site is back in a residential neighborhood but is easy to get to and has adequate parking. The grounds are free to tour but the house requires advance tickets and hours/days are limited. Definitely worth the trip for local and tourists alike."
R R
"An awesome tour, chandelier started shaking and no one was moving that made the hair rise on our arms. With 11 known spirits and 1 cat it's possible to have an encounter. Most of the house felt relatively normal but the upstairs bedroom to the left there wasn't a good vibe coming from that room.
I'd say definitely worth the tour and if you get an opportunity to stay the night, it'd be once in a lifetime."
Russ Secrest III
"This is a really neat place to visit, so much history! Lots of unique vintage items can be found throughout the house, and the tours are amazing. The guides are extremely knowledgeable and you learn something different every time you visit. The story of how the Witchduck area got its name is neat, just ask the guides to fill you in. Annual membership is a bargain to help preserve this historical gem, and you get a really nice, lengthy newsletter filled with more interesting info about the house and it's prior inhabitants. Hoping one day to see one of the many ghosts that are said to haunt here. If you're a history buff and want to learn more about the area, or like historical houses and antiques, this is a great place to visit year-round."
Anisa
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ferry Plantation House is located in a residential neighborhood in Virginia Beach. While it's easy to get to, parking is adequate. Check your GPS for the most direct route.
Yes, there is adequate parking available for visitors at Ferry Plantation House.
Public transportation options might be limited. It's best to check local transit schedules or consider ride-sharing services if you don't have a car.
Using a GPS or navigation app is recommended as it's situated within a residential area.
The grounds are generally accessible for walking and exploring.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, you need advance tickets to tour the inside of the house. The grounds are free to explore.
Ticket prices can vary, but the house tour is generally considered affordable and worth the cost. Consider an annual membership for great value.
The hours and days for house tours are limited, so it's crucial to check their official schedule online before planning your visit.
It's highly recommended to purchase tickets in advance, as tours can fill up, especially the popular paranormal ones.
An annual membership is available and offers great value, including a detailed newsletter. Inquire about group rates if applicable.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Tours are led by knowledgeable guides who share fascinating history, local legends, and unique perspectives. You'll see vintage items and learn about past inhabitants.
Ferry Plantation House is known for its paranormal activity and has been confirmed as haunted by numerous ghost hunter groups. Visitors have reported unexplained phenomena.
While the house has a haunted reputation, guides often mention that the spirits are said to have positive energy and are not harmful.
Unlike some historical sites, Ferry Plantation House is known for being 'hands-on,' allowing visitors to touch many of the vintage items.
The house is strongly associated with Grace Sherwood, the last person legally accused of witchcraft in Virginia. You'll also learn about the lives of the enslaved people who lived and worked there.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. It's best to ask your tour guide if photos are permitted inside the house, especially without flash.
The exterior of the historic manor, the grounds, and the unique hallowed tree are great for exterior shots. Inside, focus on the vintage artifacts and architectural details if photography is allowed.
Always check with your guide about flash photography and any specific areas where photos might be prohibited.
Search for 'Ferry Plantation House photos' on Google Images or social media platforms to see visitor-shared images.
Many visitors capture the historic architecture, interior details, and the eerie atmosphere, especially during paranormal tours.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Focus on the stories of Grace Sherwood and the lives of the enslaved people to spark curiosity. The unique hallowed tree on the grounds is also a great visual for kids. While the paranormal aspect might intrigue older children, it's good to gauge your child's sensitivity to spooky themes. The affordability of the tours makes it an accessible outing for families looking for educational and fun experiences.
👻 Paranormal Enthusiasts
Take advantage of the paranormal tours for a dedicated exploration of the house's spectral residents. Guides often share detailed accounts of the spirits' histories and alleged interactions. Keep an open mind and a respectful attitude, as the spirits are often described as positive presences. Researching the house's history beforehand can enhance your experience and provide context for any phenomena you might encounter.
🏛️ History Buffs
Don't miss the opportunity to see the vintage items displayed throughout the house, which provide a tangible connection to the past. The house's preservation and the ongoing restoration efforts highlight a commitment to safeguarding this historical gem. Consider becoming an annual member to receive their detailed newsletter, which offers even more insights into the house and its inhabitants.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Ferry Plantation House
Beyond the prominent figures, the house offers insights into the lives of ordinary people and the complex social dynamics of the time. Visitors can learn about the daily routines, the craftsmanship involved in the house's construction, and the unique practices of the era, such as how bread was baked. The house also features a collection of vintage items that provide a tangible connection to the past, allowing visitors to see and sometimes even touch artifacts that were part of the lives of its former residents.
The history of Ferry Plantation House is also intertwined with the Witchduck area, and guides are often happy to share the intriguing origin of its name. The site is also known for its hallowed tree, a remarkable natural feature that symbolizes resilience and survival. The ongoing restoration efforts, particularly for areas where enslaved people lived, aim to provide a more complete picture of the plantation's history.
Paranormal Experiences at Ferry Plantation House
Guides at Ferry Plantation House often share that the spirits are believed to be benevolent and positive, rather than malevolent. This perspective can help ease the minds of visitors who might be apprehensive about ghost tours. The stories shared often revolve around the former residents, including Grace Sherwood and the enslaved individuals who lived and worked on the property. The 'H' carved into the wall by Henry, an enslaved man who lived to his 80s, is a poignant reminder of the lives lived within these walls.
For those seeking a truly immersive experience, the possibility of staying overnight at the house has been mentioned as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, though details on this are scarce. The paranormal tours are a significant draw, offering a unique way to explore the history and alleged supernatural activity of the house. Videos of these experiences can often be found on platforms like YouTube, further fueling the intrigue surrounding Ferry Plantation House.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit