
Ferry Hill Plantation
Location – Ferry Hill Plantation
Mile Marker –72.8
Historical Comments – Just up the street from Lock 38 is the Ferry Hill Plantation. The area around the plantation began as a cross river ferry site in the 1760’s. The ferry and plantation remained in a single family’s hands until 1958, a really good run. It site served as a restaurant and bar until 1974, catering to the students from Shepherd College across the river in Shepherdstown, WV.
The plantation served as the headquarters of the C&O Canal National Park system from 1979 to 2001. Now it is a museum to the C&O Canal and plantation life in Maryland. If you are touring the Canal this is a nice side stop.
Ride to Site – At the intersection of Route 34 and Canal Road, the ride to the plantation is a smooth easy ride. Coming from Canal Road be aware of the traffic on Route 34 as the speed limit does not seem enforced.
Amenities – Visitors Center, public restrooms, parking
Road Conditions (from main road) – paved
Railway Situation – none
Parking Lot Conditions – Paved and pea gravel
Main Attraction – Ferry Hill Plantation.
My Thoughts – One of the hidden gems while motorcycle touring the canal (it happens to be air conditioned) 🙂 . The plantation house is manned my volunteer docents who provide an oral rendition of the history of the home and grounds.
Map

View of the back of the home
Restored Grand Room
View of Sheperdstown, WV