In late December, the final step in a plan to preserve the historic and natural landscape surrounding the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site in Manteo was achieved when The Conservation Fund transferred ownership of 20 acres of maritime forest adjacent to the site to the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.
The transaction completes the protection of the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, which preserves and interprets the rich cultural history of the Native Americans, European Americans and African Americans who lived on Roanoke Island. Known sections of England's first New World settlements from 1584 to 1590 are protected within the historic site along with the Roanoke Island maritime forest.
“The Conservation Fund deserves great credit for stepping in to protect this vital property,” said Susi H. Hamilton, secretary of the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. “This special place brings together our state’s natural, cultural and historic heritage in one location, and now it’s protected for future generations to enjoy.”
In February 2018, with funding from the NC Clean Water Management Trust Fund, Parks and Recreation Trust Fund, Fred and Alice Stanback, and other private sources, The Conservation Fund purchased the land from Roanoke Island Historical Association. The Association added proceeds from the sale to its endowment to perpetuate the Lost Colony outdoor drama, one of the Outer Banks’ top tourist attractions, and the longest running outdoor drama in the country.
“Land conservation efforts like this that complete protection for a site of national historical importance are rare these days,” said Bill Holman, North Carolina state director with The Conservation Fund. “We are honored to partner with the Roanoke Island Historical Association and the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources in ensuring the character of the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site for generations to come.”
Due to its location, the land will be managed by the National Park Service, enhancing protection of the National Historic Site.