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.
Operating Hours & Seasons
The park is open year
round (except for Christmas Day) from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. During the
summer when THE LOST COLONY outdoor symphonic drama is being presented,
the visitor center is open until 6:00 p.m.
THE LOST COLONY outdoor symphonic drama runs nightly (except Sundays)
from early June to late August. Check with the visitor center for opening
night/closing night dates.
Communities
Surrounding Fort Raleigh National Historic Site
Note: The times listed below are approximate driving times to the park.
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.