The Historical Society's mission is to preserve and interpret the history of the Eastern Shore and to educate the community about its past through our collections.
Ker Place, formerly named Kerr Place, is the headquarters of the Eastern Shore of Virginia Historical Society located in Onancock, VA. This magnificent Federal period Georgian style house was built in 1799-1803 for prosperous merchant farmer John Shepherd Ker and his wife Agnes Corbin Ker and their family. It is described by the Virginia Historical 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.
The second floor of the structure is currently used as museum exhibit space and the Society's library, archives and collections spaces. The smaller and newer section of the home is used as a welcome center for visitors with a Museum Shop and office space for staff. The entire house is used as gallery space for important Eastern Shore artwork, and for programs and rotating exhibits.
This house operates as a museum that is open for visitors with trained volunteer docents giving guided tours of the interpretive interior as well as various exhibits, laboratories and research space. It is also used as a venue for weddings and other special events for the community. Tours of the house are available throughout the year by appointment or March 21 - December 7, 2013 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM.