Rackliffe House: Assateague's Coastal Heritage Center
Visitors to Assateague State Park have an opportunity to learn about colonial life along Maryland's coast when they visit historic Rackliffe House. Rackliffe, overlooking Sinepuxent Bay, is a beautifully restored 18th-century coastal plantation house located at the end of Tom Patton Lane, just a half-mile hike from the Assateague Island Visitor Center.
The late Tom Patton, founding President of the Rackliffe House Trust, envisioned the House as a site for coastal heritage interpretation. The Trust, in partnership with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and Assateague State Park, has raised more than $800,000 for the restoration of Rackliffe House and the archeological investigation of the surrounding property. The Trust is now operating the structure and surrounding three acres of property as a Coastal Maryland Heritage Center. The plantation house is reportedly the only one of its kind and vintage in the Mid-Atlantic region that is open to the public.
The vast majority of the funds raised have been used to complete the restoration of the notable coastal Maryland colonial residence, attached kitchen wing and historic milk house.
Rackliffe House will be open on a regular schedule beginning in May through October. Please check the Rackliffe house website for open days and times. Visitors may hike to Rackliffe House any day between dawn and dusk to view the House exterior and explore the grounds. Visitors are asked to park in the lot for the Assateague Island Visitor Center and walk to the house along the Rackliffe Trail, beginning just behind the Visitor Center. If you are interested in volunteering with Rackliffe House or for more information, please visit
www.RackliffeHouse.org.
Rackliffe House - Wedding and Event Venue
Overlooking Assateague Island and scenic Sinepuxent Bay, the historic Rackliffe House provides a picturesque setting for tented weddings and events, a true nod to our Eastern Shore heritage. With a premier location and stunning views, Rackliffe House invites you to celebrate your most unforgettable day knowing every detail is tended to. From beach ceremonies at Assateague State Park to grand tented receptions, our in house planning team will create a true signature celebration.
The mission of the Rackliffe House Trust is to preserve and restore Rackliffe House and its grounds to their original 18th-century appearance and through artifacts and interpretation, to share stories of the Native, African, and European Americans who occupied this historic site. It is open to the public from May through October each year for tours, special events, and programs. As a 501(c)3 non-profit foundation, Rackliffe House Trust operates under a long-term lease with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. Rackliffe House's entrance fees, event rental fees, and donations are critical in continuing the preservation, maintenance, and operation of this historic property.
Connect with us to learn more:
The Rackliffe House Venue
http://www.rackliffehouse.org
