The Graveyard of the Atlantic
Alexander Hamilton, one of the founding fathers of our great nation,
often sailed past the shores of Hatteras Island. In his travels he almost
shipwrecked twice, and witnessed the skeletons of earlier wrecks laying
about our shores. "Surely," he confided to his friends, "this place is
the graveyard of the Atlantic."
His famous statement has proven true by almost 2,000 shipwrecks in a
coastline area of only 150 miles. The low sandy shores of the islands
of North Carolina are almost invisible from sea during stormy weather.
They have claimed the lives of thousands and the bones of their wrecked
ships still extend from the sands. In his concern for human life, Mr.
Hamilton instituted a project of lighthouse construction to warn mariners
of the dangerous waters surrounding Cape Hatteras and the Diamond Shoals.
The lighthouse system that began in his administration as our nation's
Secretary of State stands today, rising majestically from the horizon
for mariners. Each is unique in history and each has a character all its
own. Take the time to visit all four of our lighthouses on the Outer Banks
and experience the enchantment of these enduring landmarks upon our restless
shores.
 Ocracoke
Lighthouse
Ocracoke, the first of the Outer Banks' lights, was constructed as a
pilot light for the entrance to the treacherous waters of Ocracoke Inlet
in 1798. Permanently illuminated in 1823, the stark white 75-foot tower
is the oldest operating lighthouse on the North Carolina coast. Surrounded
by the lush beauty of Ocracoke Village, the light overlooks tranquil Silver
Lake. The tower is closed to the public, yet the grounds are open year-round.
The National Park Service operates a visitor's center near the Cedar Island
Ferry Terminal, open Memorial Day through Labor Day, 10 AM to 4 PM daily.
(252) 928-4531.
Cape
Hatteras Lighthouse
The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, the tallest brick lighthouse in America,
with its distinctive black and white spiral bands, towers 208 feet above
the coastal shoreline and extends its warning light over 20 miles seaward.
Last year, 190,000 of the curious and agile climbed the 268 steps to the
top for an incredible, sweeping view of the shore line and crashing surf.
Located off NC Route 12 in Buxton, the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is open
daily to climbers 9:30 AM to 4 PM, Easter weekend through Columbus Day.
There are various summer programs, call for details. (252) 441-5711.
Bodie Island Lighthouse
The Bodie Island Light and its distinctive black and white bands was
built only a few years later by the same crew that constructed the Cape
Hatteras Lighthouse. This 156-foot structure can be found west of NC Route
12, just north of Oregon Inlet. The tower's massive base is open to those
wishing to see inside it. Restored keeper's quarters serve as a visitor's
center, open daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day, 10 AM to 4 PM.
(252) 441-5711.
Currituck
Beach Lighthouse
Proudly distinguishable by its deep red brick, the Currituck Beach Lighthouse
was constructed exactly like the Bodie Island Light. The beacon stands
150 feet and 212 steps tall. A trip to the top delivers breathtaking views
of Currituck Sound and surrounding Corolla. Open daily to the public 10
AM to 6 PM, Easter through Thanksgiving weekend. Call (252) 453-4939.
There is a fee at the Currituck Beach Lighthouse of $5.00 per person.
The four guardians towering high above the Outer Banks still extend their
lights, providing a warning of dangerous shores to mariners and a treat
to the eyes of vacationers. Today, their presence serves as a poignant
reminder of days gone by when traveling mariners braved treacherous waters
of the Graveyard of the Atlantic, dependent on the guiding light and the
security it assured.
Many of Hatteras Realty's homes are located where the gorgeous beam of
the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse sweeps mightily over the roof tops. Imagine
yourself as the lonely keeper of these proud lighthouses, knowing full-well
that thousands of seafarers depended on your duty to protect their lives.
Come see how one of our outstanding vacation homes can be a lifesaver
for you and your loved ones, too!
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