Visit Us
Rackliffe House Open for Tours
During tours, docents interpret life on the 18th-century coastal plantation through artifacts on display in the kitchen, spinning room, children’s room, and original milk house. Visitors will experience an eight-minute introductory film about the Rackliffe family, the history of the house, and those who lived on the land—as well as an illustrated timeline.
Children will enjoy age-appropriate activities inside the house during tours and outdoor 18th century games on the lawn by request. All children’s activities have been created and are coordinated by the Rackliffe House Docents.
Exhibitions
“The Enslaved at Rackliffe House and Worcester County, Maryland: A Local Story.” The full story of Rackliffe House cannot be told without a historically accurate portrayal of all the people who lived here. Public and private records, as well as archaeological evidence, show the vital role that African Americans played. They were the economic engine that helped to create and sustain the wealth of 18th-century estates like this one. This exhibition covers the time from the colonial period until about 1870. It also tells a local story, focusing on Rackliffe and neighboring estates in Worcester County.
In addition, the exhibition “Early Interactions of Native Americans and Europeans on the Lower Eastern Shore,” examines—through images and first-hand accounts—how Native Americans lived and worked at the time of first contact with Europeans in our region. It also looks specifically at the Rackliffe’s and the Assateague tribe. This exhibition is drawn from one developed by Salisbury University’s Nabb Center for Delmarva History and Culture.
Hours
Rackliffe House is open late-May thru October on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. for guided tours of the house and grounds and on Sundays from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
NOTE: In the event of inclement weather at Assateague Island, Rackliffe House may be closed or choose to close early. Closings will be posted on Facebook.
Admission
Admission Fees include a docent guided tour and exhibitions:
Adults 16 and older : $8.00
Children 15 – and under*: FREE
Active Military**: FREE
*Must be accompanied by an adult
**Rackliffe House is a Blue Star Museum
Entrance fees are critical in continuing the preservation of this historic property.
Private Group Tours
To schedule a private group tour, please call 410-629-1011 or email [email protected]
