A Tangier Island Original: Storied Island Home with History, Character, and Endless Potential

4 minutes read

Every home has a story, but few can rival the unique and fascinating history of this Tangier Island property. According to local lore, this home was transported by barge to the lands known as the Uppers, an island area near the port of Tangier, by the Crockett family. That remarkable journey alone sets the tone for what this property represents: resilience, island ingenuity, and a deep connection to Tangier’s maritime heritage.

Today, this 2,068-square-foot home stands as a testament to that history, offering generous space, solid construction, and the rare opportunity to restore and reimagine an authentic Tangier Island residence. With four bedrooms, an eat-in kitchen, two enclosed porches, one bathroom, and a massive attic, the home offers both livability and untapped potential for the right buyer.

Life on Tangier Island

Tangier Island is unlike anywhere else. Accessible only by boat or small aircraft, it is a close-knit community steeped in Chesapeake Bay traditions, watermen culture, and a slower, more intentional way of life. While Tangier does see a steady flow of visitors, most tourists pass through the main areas of the island, leaving quieter residential sections—like the Uppers—peaceful and removed from the bustle.

Living here means mornings shaped by tides and weather, neighbors who look out for one another, and a rhythm of life that has remained largely unchanged for generations. This property sits within that context, offering a chance not just to own a house, but to become part of a living history.

A Home with Entrepreneurial Roots

In 2018, the current owners embraced island life fully, operating a successful gift shop from the spacious enclosed front porch. This space proved ideal for welcoming visitors while still maintaining separation from the private living areas of the home. The porch remains one of the property’s standout features—large, versatile, and filled with possibility.

Whether you envision reopening a small shop, creating an art studio, a sunroom, or simply enjoying it as additional living space, this porch offers flexibility rarely found in island homes.

Interior Layout and Living Space

With 2,068 square feet, this home is notably spacious by Tangier standards. The layout includes:

Four bedrooms, offering room for family, guests, or creative uses such as offices or studios
An eat-in kitchen, providing a central gathering place for meals and conversation
One full bathroom, functional but a candidate for renovation
Two enclosed porches, adding valuable square footage and versatility
A massive attic, ideal for storage or potential future conversion

The size and configuration of the home make it well-suited for full-time living, seasonal use, or a combination of personal residence and small business, as demonstrated by its recent history.

Solid Structure with Restoration Needs

The home is described as sturdy, a critical foundation for any renovation project. However, like many older island homes, it does require work. Buyers should be prepared for a thoughtful restoration rather than a simple refresh.

Areas needing attention include:

Gardens and landscaping, which would benefit from clearing and replanting
Exterior and interior paint, to protect surfaces and restore visual appeal
Some plaster walls, which need repair or replacement
Heating and air conditioning, as the home will need a properly functioning system
Electrical system, which must be inspected by the electric company before service can be restored; a permit will be required
Plumbing, as some pipes are broken and will need repair

These needs are significant, but they also present an opportunity. Buyers with vision can restore this home in a way that respects its history while adding modern comfort and reliability.

Electrical and Utility Considerations

It is important to note that electric service is not currently active. Before electricity can be turned on, the electric company will need to inspect the system, and appropriate permits must be obtained. This is a common scenario for older or long-unused island homes, but it is a critical factor for buyers to plan for in both timeline and budget.

Similarly, plumbing repairs will be required before full use. These realities are reflected in the property’s value and should be approached with careful planning and professional guidance.

The Attic: A Hidden Asset

One of the most intriguing features of the home is its massive attic. In many Tangier homes, attic space is limited, but here it offers substantial square footage. Whether used for storage, mechanical systems, or potentially finished space (subject to permits and feasibility), the attic adds flexibility and long-term value.

A Rare Opportunity on Tangier

Properties of this size, with this much history and character, rarely become available on Tangier Island. While the home does require restoration, it also offers something increasingly hard to find: space, story, and authenticity.

For the right buyer—whether an island enthusiast, preservation-minded renovator, or someone seeking a truly unique retreat—this property represents a chance to steward a piece of Tangier’s living history.

Who This Property Is Best For

This home is ideal for buyers who:

Appreciate historic and unconventional properties
Understand island logistics and renovation challenges
Are comfortable managing restoration projects
Want to live or spend extended time on Tangier Island
Envision creative uses such as studios, shops, or multi-generational living

It is not a turnkey home, but it is a meaningful one.

A Home with a Past—and a Future

From its barge-borne arrival to its days as a welcoming island gift shop, this home has already lived several lives. Now, it awaits its next chapter. With thoughtful care, investment, and respect for its history, it can once again become a vibrant part of the Tangier community.

Whether you dream of quiet island living, running a small business, or restoring a historic home in one of the most distinctive places on the Chesapeake Bay, this Tangier Island property offers a rare and compelling opportunity.