Ferry Plantation House – Haunted Historic Home in Virginia Beach, Virginia

The Ferry Plantation House in Virginia Beach, Virginia, is one of the most haunted historic sites in the region. Built in the 19th century on land with a dark past, this house has witnessed shipwrecks, tragic deaths, and countless eerie encounters.

The spirits of former residents, slaves, and even shipwreck victims are said to still wander its halls. Numerous ghostly sightings, unexplained noises, and chilling paranormal activity have cemented its reputation as a hotspot for ghost hunters.

Historical Background

• Year Built: 1830
• Original Purpose: Plantation house and ferry service stop
• Significant Events:
  • The site was originally a 17th-century ferry landing, where many travelers perished in shipwrecks.
  • The house was built over the ruins of the earlier Walke Manor House, which burned down under mysterious circumstances.
  • During its history, it served as a courthouse, plantation home, and school before becoming a museum.
  • A tragic accident in the early 1900s led to the death of a young woman, whose spirit is still believed to haunt the house.

Paranormal Activity Summary

Visitors and staff report a variety of unsettling experiences at the house, including:

• Disembodied whispers and voices, often heard in empty rooms.
• Ghostly apparitions, including colonial-era figures and shadowy presences.
• Unexplained cold spots and sudden temperature drops, even in the summer.
• Doors and windows opening and closing on their own.
• Heavy footsteps on the stairs, sometimes accompanied by an invisible presence.
• Mysterious tapping sounds, which some believe are attempts at communication from the other side.

Ghost Stories & Reports

The Lady in White

One of the most famous spirits at the Ferry Plantation House is a woman in a flowing white dress who has been seen near the staircase. She is believed to be the young woman who tragically died after a fall, and her presence is often accompanied by a sudden cold breeze.

The Witch of Pungo

The house is linked to Grace Sherwood, Virginia’s infamous “Witch of Pungo”, who was convicted of witchcraft in 1706. Legends say her spirit still lingers on the property, causing strange disturbances and eerie whispers. Some visitors claim to see a ghostly female figure by the water on foggy nights.

The Shadow Man

A dark shadowy figure has been seen lurking in the corners of rooms, especially near the old courthouse area of the house. Those who encounter him report an overwhelming sense of dread before he vanishes into thin air.

The Ghostly Children

Several visitors have reported hearing the laughter of unseen children, especially near the upstairs bedrooms. Some even claim to feel small hands tugging at their clothing, as if playful spirits are trying to get their attention.

Most Haunted Spot Inside

The staircase is considered the most active area in the house. Many have reported feeling an invisible force pushing or pulling them, especially near the landing where the Lady in White supposedly fell to her death.

Can You Visit?

• Open to the Public? Yes
• Entry Fee: Small donation suggested
• Tour Availability: Regular historical tours and seasonal ghost tours
• Photography Allowed? Yes
• Visiting Hours: Varies by season

Best Time to Visit

Ghost activity is said to peak during the fall months, especially near Halloween. Visitors report that nights with fog or storms tend to bring out the most paranormal encounters.

Paranormal Investigations & Findings

The Ferry Plantation House has been investigated by multiple paranormal teams. Some of the most compelling evidence includes:

• EVP recordings of whispering voices and laughter.
• Infrared footage capturing unexplained shadow movements.
• Sudden battery drain on electronic devices, a common sign of supernatural energy.

Safety Warnings & Legal Restrictions

• Visitors are required to stay on marked paths to avoid accidents.
• The house is closed after dark unless part of an official tour.
• Some areas, including the attic, are off-limits due to structural concerns.