August 11, 2022

On the way to the Assateague Island beaches in Maryland, you might have stopped at the visitor center, but have you ever explored behind the center? There are hidden trails, with a lovely view of the bridge to Assateague - the Verrazano Bridge- and a canopy of trees along a trail that delights everyone who sees it. Walk about a half mile and the trail will lead to the Rackliffe Plantation House, a colonial home restored to its former glory and open for tours a few times a week. 

Let's start with the trail. It's a hidden gem, accessible from several points and about a half mile long. Walk behind the visitor center, and follow the sign directing you into the woods. In only a few feet there are a couple of openings in the trees where you can step down and see the bridge across the bay. The tree canopy along this trail is a beautiful picture spot. It will fascinate children and adults alike! It's a great little trail for either a walk or a quick run. Almost every time I'm here, I see deer along the trail as well. 

Captain Rackliffe, a seaside trader, imported goods, harvested local timber for shingles and cypress boards, grew tobacco and wheat, and sold leather goods. There was most likely a salt works on the property as well. The only existing building, besides the house, is the milk house, a small brick building built a few feet into the ground to keep dairy products cool. The Rackliffe family eventually sold the property to private owners, and a fire destroyed the interior and roof in 1928. After the state of Maryland purchased the property, a few years later the Rackliffe House Trust leased the home and a few acres, then renovation began. Take note of the heartwood pine flooring, which looks original but was taken from another 1740s southern plantation house, according to docent Ellie Scott. Also of interest is that the house was built with two chimneys but four fireplaces. Docent Jennifer Compston explained that taxes were paid per chimney so colonists designed homes to pay less in taxes! 

Enjoy the kitchen, with its abundance of colonial cookware, and learn about preparing food in the 18th century. There's also a spinning wheel and wool from start to finish on display. The docents are extremely helpful!

Two rooms upstairs have additional displays about slavery and American Indian life. They tell some of the story of slaves at Rackliffe Plantation and how Native Americans lived and worked in the area.

Check out https://rackliffehouse.org/ for more information and be sure to include this in your travels on the Eastern Shore! The house is currently open three days a week, including Sunday afternoon, so plan your visit. There's a small admission fee as well; kids 15 and under are free, as well as active military.