Our History
Harpers Ferry is situated at the confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers, dominated by the Blue Ridge Mountains. During the presidency of George Washington, a federal armoury was built and the town soon became a prosperous industrial area. Abolitionist John Brown raided the arsenal in 1859 and the American Civil War followed 18 months later.
Shoreham Beach has an interesting, if not slightly dubious, history of it’s own. In the 1920’s the first film studio in England was built on Shoreham Beach near the site of the current Church of the Good Shepherd. It became known as ‘Bungalow Town’ as many of the film stars of the day wanted low cost accommodation. It also had another nickname, due to the "wild" living of its residents - 'Little Bohemia' and this nickname stayed with Shoreham Beach for years after the film industry went into decline. Unfortunately as the need for larger studios became greater, the entire Shoreham film industry left for Ealing in West London and Little Bohemia / Bungalow Town was no more.
During the war, the majority of the original timber bungalows were demolished so military defenses could be built. It was believed that Shoreham, due to its position, it’s harbour and direct road and rail links to London, was a prime target for any invader.
Amongst the myriad of architectural styles now present on the Beach, it is refreshing to see that Ric has built a fabulous property that is more reminiscent of those decadent, halcyon days of the past.