Historic Documentary “Steamboats on the Chesapeake” Screens at the Roseland Theater to Benefit Shore History

Shore History is pleased to announce the screening of the documentary film Steamboats on the Chesapeake at the historic Roseland Theater in Onancock. The screenings will take place on Thursday, February 19 at 7:00 p.m., with a matinee screening on Saturday, February 21 at 2:00 p.m. Proceeds from both showings will benefit Shore History and its mission to preserve and share the heritage of Virginia’s Eastern Shore.

Produced by Mark Huffman of 26th Street Media in Richmond, for the Kilmarnock Museum and the Steamboat Era Museum, Steamboats on the Chesapeake chronicles the vital role steamboats played in connecting Chesapeake Bay communities from 1813 to 1962. Through historic images, expert commentary, and compelling local stories, the film explores how these vessels shaped commerce, transportation, and daily life along the Bay, linking small towns to major ports such as Baltimore.

The film also highlights significant local history, including trade routes, tragic events, and the importance of steamboat travel to the Eastern Shore of Virginia.

“It is likely that the steamboat played such a large role—and contributed more to the prosperity of the Eastern Shore of Virginia—by connecting our small peninsula to the greater United States at the Onancock Wharf and through Hopkins & Bros. General Store,” said Hilary Hartnett-Wilson, Executive Director of Shore History.

Tickets are $10 and may be purchased online at roselandonancock.com or at the Roseland Theater box office, located on Market Street in Onancock.

Shore History gratefully acknowledges the support of the Roseland Theater for making this special event possible and to the Kilmarnock Museum for sharing this piece of history.