Fort Raleigh National Historic Site

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CONTENTS

Fort Raleigh National Historic Site

The first English attempts at colonization in the New World (1585-1587) are commemorated here. These efforts, sponsored by Sir Walter Raleigh, ended with the disappearance of 116 men, women and children (including two that were born in the New World). The fate of this "lost colony" remains a mystery to this day. The Park was established in 1941, and enlarged in 1990 by Public Law 1001-603 to include the preservation of Native American culture, The American Civil War, the Freedman's Colony, and the activities of radio pioneer Reginald Fessenden. The park is also home to the outdoor symphonic drama THE LOST COLONY, performed in the Waterside Theatre during the summer since 1937. The park is 513 acres in size.

IN DEPTH

Activities & Programs Things To Do Visitor Center The stories of Roanoke Island are told by exhibits, artifacts and the 17-minute park video Roanoke: The Lost Colony. In the summer, park rangers...read more

Who's Who at the Park Bookstore Visit the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site on-line bookstore Eastern National currently operates educational retail outlets in 30 states, from Maine to the Caribbean. We see our mission...read more

Just For Kids Web Rangers FREE!!! That's right.........You're not dreaming. You can become a Junior Ranger at Fort Raleigh National Historic Site without leaving the safety and comfort of your computer screen... FOR FREE! and receive...read more

Nearby Attractions The Lost Colony outdoor symphonic drama is offered during summer evenings from mid-June to mid-August at the park's Waterside Theatre. Located within the park, The Elizabethan Gardens offers...read more

Planning Your Visit Welcome Welcome to the National Park Service Outer Banks Group - Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, and Wright Brothers National Memorial! There is much here...read more

In A Nutshell Operating Hours & Seasons The park visitor center is open year round (except for Christmas Day) from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. During the summer from June through August,...read more