Virginia Department of Historic Resources Virginia Department of Historic Resources
For additional information, read the Nomination Form PDF
VLR Listing Date 10/21/1980
NRHP Listing Date 06/28/1982
NRHP Reference Number 82004531
Completed in the third quarter of the 18th century, the Shepherd’s Plain dwelling is a two-story Georgian mansion built for Edward Ker, an Accomack County planter and politician. Its architectural interest is heightened by the rare rusticated quoins employed on the brick ends and in the gables. The Gibbs-type rusticated surround on an end window is Virginia’s only example of this type of architectural decoration in brick. Also noteworthy is the large quantity of original interior woodwork, especially the parlor paneling with its chimneypiece framed by pilasters set on pedestals. The Georgian stair is exceptional as well. These architectural details illustrate the proficiency of Eastern Shore craftsmen in executing sophisticated designs based on designs in 18th-century English pattern books. The handsome architectural character of this Accomack County home has been brought out through a long-term restoration by its owners late in the 20th century.
Many properties listed in the registers are private dwellings and are not open to the public, however many are visible from the public right-of-way. Please be respectful of owner privacy.
Abbreviations:
VLR: Virginia Landmarks Register
NPS: National Park Service
NRHP: National Register of Historic Places
NHL: National Historic Landmark
Updated: June 2, 2022
