Nowhere in the Outer Banks is life in the 1800s quite as obvious than at the living history homestead of the Etheridge Family, among the original settlers of Roanoke Island in 1757. Now owned and operated by a non-profit organization, the old homestead, now called Island Farm, is open seasonally (April to November) for all to experience what life was like in the way back when in the Outer Banks.
It was quite normal back in the 1800s to have everything needed right on the homestead, making it more of a village for the extended family.
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A visit to Island Farm may leave you feeling as if time really has stood still on this North Carolina island. There are many historic points of interest, including a home that was built between 1845 and 1850.
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You’ll find people dressed in period clothing from the 1800s, and all with a job to do.
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By the mid 1850s, the islands in the Outer Banks we dotted with windmills. One stands on Island Farm today, as if it was still being used for power.
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The kitchen house stands open here, with chickens roaming freely on the property.
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Inside the kitchen house the oversize fireplace is still commonly used for cooking demonstrations.
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The structure known as the barn and chicken coop was quite impressive. Home to all the animals on the estate, as well as a storage place for the feed, this structure is an integral part of the family village.
Facebook/Island Farm c.1847
While you’re here you can also visit the Etheridge family cemetery, c. 1800. In spite of the more than two centuries since the first Etheridge family member was laid to rest here, most of the markers are in great condition.
The Island Farm
The Island Farm is a seasonal attraction on Roanoke Island. Their 2018 season opens on April 3, 2018. Visitors can expect ox-drawn wagon rides, hearth cooking demonstrations, gardening (the way it was done in the 1800s), demonstrations of laundry chores, and some children’s 19th-century toys and games.
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The “village” includes 14 buildings or attractions. Admission is $8, children ages five and under are free.
Facebook/Island Farm c.1847 - Island Farm Reopens for the 2018 Season Island Farm is located at 1140 US-64, Manteo, NC 27954. They are open April 3 - November 24, 2018, Tuesday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. For more information, visit their official website.
Are you a real history buff? Keep on reading to discover 10 North Carolina hiking trails that lead to some incredible pieces of history.
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The Island Farm
Facebook/Island Farm c.1847 - Island Farm Reopens for the 2018 Season
Island Farm is located at 1140 US-64, Manteo, NC 27954. They are open April 3 - November 24, 2018, Tuesday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. For more information, visit their official website.
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