In Brunswick County, you’ll find Bald Head Island NC, formerly known as Smith Island. Small and secluded, it’s one of the most picturesque places on the eastern seaboard. Here, you can experience history and nature firsthand. There’s also a museum, a lighthouse, and a wildlife refuge.
Baldy Lighthouse
Bald Head Island, also known as Smith Island, is a small island located in Brunswick County, North Carolina. While it is very small and isolated, it is worth visiting to enjoy its beautiful beaches and quiet, tranquil environment. You can enjoy a day trip to this picturesque island, or spend an entire week exploring its historic sites and charming towns.
Bald Head Island’s history spans the American Revolution and the Civil War. During the American Revolution, it was home to Fort George, a British fort. During the Civil War, it became a base for the Confederate army. It also had an important role in shipping and smuggling. During this time, it changed hands several times and had many names, including Cape Fear.
Old Baldy Lighthouse
Bald Head Island, North Carolina, is home to the Old Baldy Lighthouse, the second oldest lighthouse in the state. It was built to help guide ships past the dangerous shoals in the Cape Fear river. Today, the Old Baldy still serves its original purpose of guiding ships past a dangerous shoal, but its history stretches back to the 16th century.
The Old Baldy Lighthouse is now owned by the Old Baldy Foundation and opened to the public in 1995. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In 2000, the foundation opened a replica of the keeper’s cottage, which houses a museum and gift shop. There, visitors can learn about life on the island and buy unique souvenirs.
Smith Island Museum
The Smith Island Museum is the place to go if you want to learn about the history of the island. It’s not just a museum, it’s a time capsule of the island’s past. The museum houses a variety of objects that date back to 1750. In addition to artifacts, visitors can also enjoy the museum’s audio guide, which explains the island’s history.
If you’re planning a day trip to Bald Head Island, you’ll want to visit the Smith Island Museum of History. Located in the replica of an 1850 lighthouse keeper’s cottage, the museum is a great place to learn about the history of the island. The museum includes a tour of the Old Baldy lighthouse and gives visitors an account of the island’s history.
Bald Head Island Conservancy
The Bald Head Island Conservancy is a non-profit organization with two main missions: preservation and education. Founded in 1983, this organization helps to protect and preserve Bald Head Island and its natural beauty. The Conservancy offers several different programs for visitors to the island. Check out their website for more information!
The Conservancy welcomes members, interns, and volunteers interested in helping preserve and protect the island’s wild environment. They also host events and raise money to support their work. The organization offers many different ways to get involved, from adopting local animals to becoming a full member. Interested parties can also learn about the island’s ecology through various exhibits and educational programs.
The Conservancy focuses on public education, preservation, and restoration of Bald Head Island. The organization has ambitious goals and seeks to protect the unique ecosystem of the island for future generations. The organization also has programs for families, which can help make the island experience a memorable one.
Ferry service to Bald Head Island
The ferry service to Bald Head Island, NC is a convenient way to get to the island and enjoy the natural beauty of the Atlantic Ocean. The ferry is located at Deep Point Marina in Southport, NC, and takes about 20 minutes to get to the island. Once on the island, you can use the ferry to get to the beach or take a tram around the island.
The Bald Head Island Transportation Authority owns and operates the ferry, barge, and tram. It also manages the marina properties and parking facilities on the island. The authority was formed in 2017 with the support of the village and Southport, and Brunswick County. The authority would set rates and fees and develop routes and transportation services for Bald Head Island.
