One hundred and fifty years ago, the nation was caught up in the bloodiest war in American history. Both the Union and the Confederacy recognized that controlling the trade routes along coastal North Carolina would be vital to controlling the state. Events will be held on March 24-25, 2012 to commemorate the Union occupation of Beaufort. A collaboration of the Maritime Museum, Beaufort Historic Site, Fort Macon State Park, Cape Lookout National Seashore, and The History Place will bring the county together for a Living History Weekend for the entire family. For more information on local Civil War history, visit the Civil War Along the Outer Banks webpage. Guided Tours of the Lighthouse Special Civil War tours of the Cape Lookout lighthouse will be held on March 24 and 25, 2012 in remembrance of the Union occupation of Beaufort on March 26, 1862. Each of these programs will present the strategic importance of the coast in general and the Cape Lookout Lighthouse in particular, to both the Confederate and Union causes, and what was done to try to control the lighthouse. The tours will culminate in a guided climb up the historic lighthouse. The view from the top of the lighthouse will help every Civil War enthusiast grasp the importance of this coastal area. Supplies were a constant need. Whether trying to keep ships out or trying get ships in; this area was vital to everyone. Programs will be offered every 30 minutes from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM and from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Each climb is limited to 10 people; reservations are required. Please call Cape Lookout National Seashore at 252-728-2250 to reserve your climb time. Lighthouse climbs are $8.00 per person for adults and $4.00 for seniors over 62, children under 12, and those with permanent disabilities. Children must be at least 44 inches tall to climb the lighthouse. Transportation to and from the lighthouse is not included in this program. There are several ferries services available from Beaufort and Harkers Island. Please contact the ferries directly for operating hours and pricing. This special climb is in conjunction with many exciting events being offered in the town of Beaufort and at Fort Macon. For schedule of events see http://www.crystalcoastnc.org/upcoming-events.
Additional Programs and Events These commemorative events will be held in other locations in Beaufort and the surrounding area. For a complete list of programs and times, please visit http://www.crystalcoastnc.org/upcoming-events. Saturday March 24th Demonstrations:
Historic Tours:
Watched by Sound & Sea: Occupied Beaufort, 1862 (Exhibit) Life in Beaufort during the Civil War (Exhibit) Sunday March 25 Civil War Music featuring Carteret Grays |
Last updated: April 14, 2015