10/27/2026
Welcome back to our historical home series, this time, we’re visiting the Ferry Plantation House! Rife with history, let’s dive in and unpack the legend of the The Hanging Tree and The Witch of Pungo lore that surrounds this infamous home.
An aerial view of the lovely terraced grounds. From here you can see mature trees and colonial-era landscaping of days gone by. The Ferry Plantation House was once the Princess Anne Courthouse, and as we’ll see in later slides, the hanging grounds if found guilty.
What’s truly fascinating about this building is the symmetry. Even after a fire and adding on, architects preserved the duality.
Although Grace Sherwood was not buried here, this is where her lore begins as the infamous Witch of Pungo. It’s where she survived her trial by water (the only trial in Virginia) hence why it’s not named Witchduck Point.
The “Hanging Tree” behind the old courthouse. An American Sycamore that’s nearly 400 years old. The tennis court, for private use is said to be haunted where player frequently roll their ankles!
The tree is completely hollowed out was struck by lightening in 1966 yet continues to survive.
Along the property, you’ll find several markers dedicated to Grace Sherwood. Her name was famously cleared 300 years to the date and time of her trial by former governor Tim Kaine.
To read more of this tall tale (and other local legends and historical homes) look for The Witch of Pungo by Louisa Venable Kyle.
You may need to ask a relative for a copy as it’s out of print and hard to find, but an incredible read of historical, local fiction.
Illustrations from Mrs. Kyle’s Witch of Pungo detailing Grace Sherwood’s trial by water and accusation of witchcraft.
Grace Sherwood survived her trial by water by freeing herself, spent seven years in jail and then retired to her farmland tending to her crops and animals.
A painting depicting her trial and Witchduck Point at the time. Artist is unknown.
Grace Sherwood’s home in Princess Anne County. She is buried near her home.
A small statue of Grace Sherwood near Sentara Independence Hospital and the entrance of the Old Donation neighborhood commemorates her life and bravery.
