Roanoke River Maritime Museum
opens with expansion and new exhibits
by Doward Jones, Jr.

Strolling today though Plymouth’s quaint downtown, it’s difficult to believe that less than a century back, the Roanoke’s passage gave way to a bustling hub of activity. Wharfs overflowing with stores lined the waterfront. Ships plied the waterways carrying cargo to destinations far reaching for a rural community with little roadways.

With the opening of the Dismal Swamp Canal early in the nineteenth century, new markets developed in the north for wood products, fish and agricultural produce. In 1810 Congress approved the funds for the Roanoke River lightship which stood at the mouth of the river until the outbreak of the Civil War.

After the war in 1866 the first lighthouse was commissioned to guide traffic into the Roanoke noting the importance to the economy of the region to the Nation’s development.

Today Plymouth has taken this heritage full circle with the opening of the replica 1866 riverlight and the Roanoke River Maritime Museum. The riverlight, completed in 2003, offers an insight to the structure’s architecture along with the light keepers’ life and duties while it served the United States Lighthouse Service. The new year in 2007 welcomes the completion of the museum which tells the story of how the waterways linked the port town to the outside world.

Housed in a former automobile dealership across from the lighthouse, displays and artifacts fill the 5000 foot interior. Here you can take a journey as the Mayflower traveled local waters carrying passengers and local goods before a fateful day when it capsized. Photographs arranged in unique displays provide an insight to the lifestyles of how the local population interacted with nature and the land.

A locally built 1889 vernacular fishing boat stands as a centerpiece to the main gallery. Used by three generations for over 100 years the vessel not only fished local waters, but was used to peddle produce and fish traveling to various towns along the Albemarle.

From transportation, fishing, hunting or just plain fun the story is captured in the museum for all to enjoy. For the younger set (or anyone who has the inkling) there is a boat to sail and navigate. Aquariums filled with local aquatic creatures will educate both children and adults on the importance of the environment.

The Outer Banks Lighthouse Society will also have displays on the seaside lights that have made the North Carolina lighthouses famous. The exhibits will offer a gateway for visitors providing information and inspiration for their journey to the shore.

Come experience an important link to regions history and explore Plymouth’s waterfront. Many new shops and restaurants have opened providing an opportunity for the entire family. Downtown Plymouth is located a short drive off Highway 64. Signs mark the exit and there is plenty of free parking for cars, buses and RV’s.

Visit the new Web site for the Roanoke River Lighthouse and Maritime Museum at http://www.roanokeriverlighthouse.org