Farm to Market

The Eastern Shore has a rich agricultural history, from large British land grant farms to post-Civil War tenant farmers and from large commercial outfits to small organic farms, and agriculture continues to be its largest economic activity. Farmers growing nursery plants or food use Best Management Practices to manage environmental impacts, and locally grown produce can be found at roadside stands throughout the area. Rail service on the Eastern Shore was designed to connect New York and Norfolk, two major harbors in the late 19th century, and it completely changed the lives of local residents. Combined with ferry service, the railroads opened new markets and gave residents new mobility. Many farmers brought their produce to the wharf by boat, where it was loaded onto railcars, carried by ferry across the Bay to Norfolk or north to New York, and sold in urban markets. Although rail service ended in 1958, the history of railroads on the Eastern Shore remains remembered by local historical organizations.

Virginia · United States