On the north bank of the Wicomico river, tiny Whitehaven is one of the oldest towns on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, dating to the late 1600s and incorporated in 1702.

As a National Historic District, Whitehaven was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1980.

Eleven miles southwest of Salisbury as the crow flies—well off the beaten track!—the village boasts 25 full-time residents, the oldest continuously operating ferry in the United States, and an 1810 hotel restored to its former glory.

On a recent visit, we ran into Cindy Bush, secretary of the Whitehaven Heritage Association, who immediately said she’d show us the old schoolhouse. With its spanking new shingled roof, the 1887 schoolhouse is being restored and houses the local museum, with displays of furniture (including school desks), models, maps, photographs, books, and other local artifacts.

Though the village once bustled with stores, a bank, saloons, a ballroom, livery stables, shipyards, and a marine railway, the Whitehaven Hotel (1810) is now the only remaining commercial structure. A beautiful bed-and-breakfast, it has seven rooms to accommodate overnight guests.

Which brings us to the ferry. Since 1688, the free Whitehaven Ferry has been crossing the Wicomico river over and back to Somerset County during daylight hours—a three-minute voyage. Be warned, however; the ferry does not operate under adverse conditions (high water, heavy current, bad weather), so you may wish to call ahead.

This small community’s biggest challenges are described as raising money to restore and maintain the schoolhouse and church, purchasing and restoring village homes, and bringing in people to visit. The effects of climate change on the flood plain and the need for improvements in rural internet services are also concerns.

Park your car, stretch your legs, and take a look-see in Whitehaven before you board the ferry to cross the Wicomico in style!

For more info: www.whitehavenheritage.com

Whitehaven Ferry: 410-543-2765