ker place

the history of ker place

This magnificent 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 ambience of plantation life in the early 19th century on the Eastern Shore.

today

Ker Place, formerly known as Kerr Place, is the headquarters of the Eastern Shore of Virginia Historical Society and is located in Onancock, Va.

The house operates as a museum open to visitors and has trained volunteer docents giving guided tours of the interior and exterior as well as various exhibits.

The second floor of the structure currently is used as museum exhibit space and the society's genealogy room, archives, and collections spaces. The smaller and newer section of the home is used as a welcome center for visitors with office space for staff. The entire house is used as gallery space for important Eastern Shore artwork as well as for programs and temporary exhibits.

Ker Place also is available as a venue for weddings and special events.

directions to ker place

Heading North

  • Heading north on U.S. 13 (Lankford Hwy.), turn left at Va. 179 (Market Street).

  • Stay on road for approximately 1 mile, and Ker Place will be on your right.

  • Turn into the driveway with the white picket fence; the street address is 69 Market St.

Heading South

  • Heading south on U.S. 13 (Lankford Hwy.), turn right at Va. 179 (Market Street).

  • Stay on road for approximately 1 mile, and Ker Place will be on your right.

  • Turn into the driveway with the white picket fence; the street address is 69 Market St.

location

69 Market St.
Onancock, VA 23417
Map

Admission

By donation

Hours

Ker Place is open 11am-3pm Tuesday-Friday and Saturdays by availability. Please call ahead for Saturday availability at (757) 787-8012.

If you would like to schedule a group tour, we will work to accommodate you around our docents’ availability. Call 757.787.8012 to schedule a group tour or research appointment. Administrative offices are open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays.

Contact

757.787.8012

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