This time of year, many of us are thinking about what we are thankful for.
Some days that's harder than others, but one thing we can always be thankful for is the experiences our national parks make possible for each of us. I love this photo from the Wickes family who recently spent quality outdoor time at Wright Brothers National Memorial! (Pictured here: brothers Mason, Jonah, and Dylan)
Your OBX national parks have seen record breaking visitation over the past few months. Those of us who live here can honestly say we've never seen an "off season" quite like this.
While we love that more people are finding ways to enjoy our parks, this increase in visitors also poses challenges. Your national park staff have to find ways to manage more people with the same resources they've had in the past. So this year I am even more thankful than usually for our National Park Service staff who help each of us have an amazing experience in our parks even when they are stretched thin.
Our mission here at Outer Banks Forever is to support your parks in any way we can. This holiday season, I hope you'll consider a gift to support these special places and the people who have helped you and your family create countless memories.
We've added a brand new events calendar to our website so that you can easily find virtual and in person ways to engage with and support your OBX national parks!
This month, national parks around the United States are honoring Native American Heritage Month, and your OBX national parks are joining them!
Years before the arrival of the English, the land that makes up the Outer Banks was home to Native Americans who honored and cultivated the unique resources of these barrier islands.
In fact, two Outer Banks towns you’re likely familiar with, Manteo and Wanchese, are named for members of the Carolina Algonquian.
Read on to learn how their legacies shaped life as we know it here in the Outer Banks.
Cape Hatteras Lighthouse: Lighting the Way for 150 Years
Did you know that the iconic stripes we know and love on the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse weren't part of its original design?
This year marks your lighthouse's 150th birthday, and we're celebrating alongside your park and the Outer Banks Lighthouse Society!
Stay tuned for details on the virtual event on December 16th that will include expert and community speakers, and a live streamed ceremonial re-lighting of the lighthouse.
In the meantime, read on to learn more about the interesting history of one of the most iconic structures on the east coast, including why it was so important to build and yes, how it got its stripes.
