Roanoke Marshes Light Station (reproduction)
Manteo, NC

The replica is an exterior reproduction of the 1877 Roanoke Marshes lighthouse. There were originally 3 lighthouses named RMLH and two were screwpiles. The first one was in the marsh and was 1831-1839 and no information has been located as to it's style. The second one was a hexagonal lighthouse and was 1858-1877. The third one (the one the town based the replica on) was 1877-1955.

The 1-1/2 story cottage-style building is situated on what used to be called the "sewer-pier" back in the early 1990s. The sewer treatment facility no longer exists and the pier has been completely renovated. The pier, which houses the Roanoke Marshes Reproduction, looks out east toward Albemarle Sound and Nags Head.

The original lighthouse was operated by the U.S. Coast Guard until 1955. At that time it was located at the southern entrance of Croaton Sound, halfway between Wanchese and the NC mainland.

Many years ago, in an attempt to move the structure, it was destroyed beyond repair during an attempt by an individual to relocate it to the mainland.

Dedicated in a special ceremony on September 25, 2004, the replica is located along the waterfront of Shallowbag Bay just off the east end of Queen Elizabeth Street in this beautiful and historic town of Manteo. Operated by the Roanoke Island Festival Park, it is open daily, free of charge from 9-5, year-round.

Directions
When traveling through Manteo on Rt. # 64 from Nags Head, you will be traveling west. As you are in the main shopping area, look for the road signs that will show you to turn right and travel approximately one half mile to the waterfront area. The reproduction is located on the far eastern end of Queen Elizabeth Street. Parking is limited in that immediate area, however, parking anywhere in the town will be just a short walk to the pier.

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* Currituck * Bodie * Hatteras * Ocracoke * Lookout * Oak Island * Baldhead *
* Roanoke River * Roanoke Marshes * Prices Creek *
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This page last updated: Tuesday, January 19, 2010 10:07 AM