The Outer Banks has a rich historical record; the Wright Brothers’ first flight, sub wrecks from WWII, Black Beard the pirate, and a diverse legacy of Native Americans.
The Native American history on the OBX is not widely known, but an increased awareness is developing. Two upcoming events help demonstrate this increased awareness.
1. The American Indian Town and Cultural Education Center will open this spring at Roanoke Island Festival Park in Manteo, North Carolina. The center will be a new historical documentation of the experiences that the first colony endured when they explored the New World in 1587. Activities include a variety of true-to-scale structures, role play environments and places to explore, plant, dance, build and play. The park’s centerpiece is the Elizabeth II, a replica of a 16th century English sailing vessel. For more information call 252-475-1500, or visit www.roanokeisland.com.
2. The eleventh annual inter-tribal powwow will be held April 24-26 on Hatteras Island. This event will be sponsored by the Frisco Native American Museum & Natural History Center and will include three days of activities. Activities such as pine needle basket workshops, and an actual powwow that will be open to the public. “We know it is a privilege to be able to celebrate on ancestral ground,” said Carl Bornfriend, director of the Frisco Native American Museum. “Each year a few more people join the small band of natives who can trace their heritage to the original inhabitants of our island. For them the powwow is truly a ‘journey home.’’ If you are interested in learning more about the Native American history of the Outer Banks, feel free to stop by for this event. Please call 252-995-4440 for more information or visit www.nativeamericanmuseum.org
