News Flash

Hampton Roads boast a wealth of history as the “birthplace of America,” but this history has many facets. Historian and author Nancy E. Sheppard recounts stories of our region’s nefarious past in her new book “Murder and Mayhem in Hampton Roads.”

Join her as she explores some of the darkest moments in Hampton Roads' vibrant history. Dive into the story of cannibalism in the Jamestown colony and learn the gory details of the tale of the Witch of Pungo. Blackbeard and his men wreaked havoc in Hampton Roads before Virginians brought them to justice. Explore rarely told stories of lynchings, riots and a hoax involving none other than famed aviator Charles Lindbergh. 

Of particular note to Hamptonians, in addition to the story of Blackbeard, and the Civil War burning of Hampton, Nancy will take you to more recent times, including the mysterious death of Jenny Graham Kane after swimming in the shallows off Grandview, and the subsequent 1931 “Trial of the Century” of her husband Elisha Kent Kane III.

After her talk, Nancy will sign copies of her book that will be available in the gift shop for $23.99 (publishes October 8). Members enjoy 10% discount, in addition to free admission to our evening lectures and concerts, as well as special exhibit previews and more. Become a member today!

Nancy E. Sheppard is a historian, author and native of Hampton Roads, Virginia. She earned her bachelor of arts degree in history from American Military University. Her first book, The Airship ROMA Disaster in Hampton Roads (The History Press, 2016), earned a nomination for the 2017 Virginia Literary Awards. She is also a staff writer and photojournalist for the newspaper Yorktown Crier-Poquoson Post, focusing primarily on local history, museums, military and theme park news.

The Hampton History Museum is located at 120 Old Hampton Lane in Downtown Hampton. There is free parking in the garage across the street from the museum. For more information call 757-727-1102.

Image: 1931 Kane Trial from the cover of the book.