News Release

Save the Date - Cape Hatteras National Seashore and Wright Brothers National Memorial virtually commemorate three important anniversaries in December

When it was built in 1870, the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse was painted red and white. The lighthouse received the famous black and white stripe daymark pattern in 1873. The 1854 lighthouse is shown in background. Painting by Stephen Harrington.

News Release Date: November 19, 2020

Contact: Michael Barber, 252-475-9032

Cape Hatteras National Seashore and Wright Brothers National Memorial will virtually commemorate three important anniversaries next month. The special events will be available to watch on social media and Dare County’s CURRENTtv.

On December 16, 2020, Cape Hatteras National Seashore, in partnership with the Outer Banks Lighthouse Society and Outer Banks Forever, will celebrate the 150^th anniversary of Cape Hatteras Lighthouse’s first lighting. The world-famous lighthouse was first lit on December 16, 1870. The special event will begin around 4:50 p.m. with a livestream view of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, followed by a 20-30-minute video broadcast of speeches. The video will feature Superintendent David Hallac, local elected officials, historians, and more.

This year also marks the 150^th anniversary of Dare County, and the December 16^th celebration will highlight the unique connection between the lighthouse and the county.

On December 17, 2020, Wright Brothers National Memorial, in partnership with First Flight Society and Outer Banks Forever, will commemorate the 117^th anniversary of Wilbur and Orville Wright’s first heavier-than-air, controlled, powered flight. Park entrance fees will be waived on the first flight anniversary.

Throughout the month of December, Cape Hatteras National Seashore and Wright Brothers National Memorial will publish content on social media to highlight these important dates. Follow on Facebook at @CapeHatterasNS and @WrightBrothersNMEM to interact with park rangers, partners, and historians during the month.

Additional details about each event, including specific times and lists of speakers, will be announced in early December.