This year marks Dare County’s Sesquicentennial—its 150th anniversary! Throughout 2020, the County will proudly celebrate its history, people, nature, businesses, culture, and services.
On February 3, 1870, the North Carolina General Assembly joined parts of Currituck, Hyde, and Tyrrell counties to form a new county in order to bring government functions closer to the people. Due to coastal North Carolina’s unique geography, it would take days for some to travel to their county’s administrative center. The new county was named Dare in memory of Virginia Dare, the first English child born in America, who was born on Roanoke Island. Upon the creation of Dare, Manteo was named as the county seat because of its centralized location to the various areas that make up the county. Today, the County’s Administration Building and Justice Center remain located in Manteo.
Mark your calendar for Dare’s 150th Anniversary Celebration event at Island Farm on Saturday, May 2, 2020, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Roanoke Island. This free, family-friendly event will celebrate the life and times of the area in the late 1800s. Interpreters will be dressed in period attire and will host special activities for children. The event will also include food, games, and story-telling on the porch. A rain date has been set for May 9 in case of inclement weather.
Visit Dare150.com to explore a historical timeline map and for a fun list of 150 different ways you can celebrate Dare County! Additional events will be added to the website as details are finalized. Follow Dare County on Twitter for regular glimpses into the past, suggestions for things to do on the Outer Banks, and other entertaining celebratory posts throughout the year.
For more information, contact Dare County Public Relations at 252.475.5900.
