England's First Home in the New World

Amongst the shallow blue waters of the Outer Banks lies Fort Raleigh on Roanoke Island. Shaped by constant winds of change, Fort Raleigh has become a focal point of American history. From the first Algonquian-speaking people to the first English colonies, from formerly enslaved people starting anew to an inventor testing new radio technology, this island continues to be a place to forge new paths.

Reconstructed earthen fort covered in grass
Roanoke Island in the 1500s

Dive deeper into the stories of the English expeditions to the New World and the Carolina Algonquians that called the land home.

Granite monument reading "First Light of Freedom"
The Civil War and Freedmen's Colony

After the Battle of Roanoke Island in 1862, a Freedmen's Colony was established for those who were formerly enslaved.

Outdoor amphitheater with rows of seats leading to a stage set.
Fort Raleigh in the 20th Century

From early radio experiments to the creation of the longest-running outdoor drama, Fort Raleigh continued to make history in the 1900s.

Artwork depicting what the earthwork built by the English in 1585 might have looked like
Exploring Fort Raleigh

Discover the different places to visit and learn about at Fort Raleigh National Historic Site.

Ranger giving a program to a class at the earthen fort
Education at Fort Raleigh

Coming on a field trip? Remember to set up your reservation!

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

Fort Raleigh National Historic Site
1401 National Park Drive

Manteo, NC 27954

Phone:

252 473-2111

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