Roanoke Island Maritime Museum opened in Manteo in 1998. The museum is located in the George Washington Creef Boathouse nestled along side the downtown waterfront.
The Boathouse is named after George Washington Creef, a local builder who developed the Shad boat in the 1870’s. Creef combined traditional split-log techniques with conventional plank-on-frame construction. This unique style of work boat was well-suited to rapidly- changing weather conditions and the surrounding waters of the Albemarle and Pamlico Sounds making it a vessel in high demand by coastal fisherman. Construction of these boats ended in the 1930’s, but they are still seen on the water due to their solid construction. Though nearly 100 years old, they are a timeless piece of local history. The Shad boat was designated as the State Boat of North Carolina in 1987. The museum has on exhibit a number of small watercrafts showcasing the community’s maritime heritage. Some of the watercraft exhibits include Ella, an 1883 Creef Shad boat, a clipper yawl boat, a 1960 era hydroplane, and other small boats.
The Maritime Museum is a working boat shop where volunteers and staff take on projects including small craft restoration, exhibit design, and new boat construction. The Elizabeth II, a replica of the ships said to have brought the famous Lost Colony to Roanoke Island in 1587 was constructed on this site. Several other restored traditional sailing watercrafts, including the Elizabeth II, grace the waters of Shallowbag Bay in front of the Museum. Eight Optimist Prams were built by volunteers in 2001 for the Youth Sailing Program coordinated by the Museum. A replica 25-foot Shad boat was built by volunteers and staff in 2002 through funds from a grant provided by the Percy and Elizabeth Meekins Trust. The replica is an integral part of the museum’s educational and interpretive programs. The Friends of the Museum, a non-profit support group, help to secure the classes offered by the Museum and the Outer Banks Sailing program. Extensive repairs and renovations were made to the Museum after Hurricane Isabel in September of 2003 in an effort to preserve a piece of local history.
The Maritime Museum is located at 104 Fernando Street in downtown Manteo. Call (252) 475-1750 or visit their Facebook page for more information on educational programs, activities and special events.
