Surrounded by sound and ocean waters and interlaced with rivers and creeks, Currituck County has always been shaped by water, and equally, the water has helped to define and shape its people and rich coastal history.
The Currituck Maritime Museum opens to the public on Friday, exhibiting historic boats, artifacts, and other displays that will tell the stories of local businesses and citizens who have lived and worked on the various waterways of the region.
“Our way of life in Currituck County has been molded by the waterways that surround us—from our mode of transportation and travel to the recreation activities we enjoy to our livelihoods,” said museum manager Chandler Sawyer. “It’s always been an important part of our heritage and we’re excited to share those stories.”
This new facility, located across from the Currituck Beach Lighthouse, will add to the cultural richness of Historic Corolla Park, which also includes Whalehead and the Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education, helping visitors learn more about the Currituck County’s unique heritage.
Located in the heart of Historic Corolla Park, surrounded by the Currituck Sound to the west and the Atlantic Ocean to the east, the museum, a 10,000-square-foot self-interpretive, family-friendly exhibit experience, will focus on several restored boats that have defined Currituck maritime history through the years.
In addition to the physical boats on display, a powerful visitor experience will be delivered through stunning photography, breathtaking videography, hands-on exhibits, demonstrations and educational programs.
Exhibit topics include restored historical boats, fishing, lifesaving stations, lighthouses, the boat-building industry, decoy carving, weather and more.
The museum will be open Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free.