Shackleford Banks

The history of Shackleford Banks is fascinating, marked by land acquisitions, early settlements, and a connection to the Shackleford family.

Early Land Acquisition:

• In 1713, Virginia planter John Shackleford acquired several large tracts of land in Bath County, including Shackleford Banks.
• The area was initially known as “Sea Banks” and was part of Carteret County in North Carolina’s Outer Banks.

Cart Island to Shackleford Banks:

• When John Shackleford first acquired the land, the island was called “Cart Island,” likely named after Carteret County.
• The last known Shackleford family members sold their holdings in 1805 to Roger and John Shackleford of Georgetown, South Carolina.

Garrison and Plantation:

• In 1712, John Shackleford’s garrison on the Shackleford Plantation was listed in Colonial Records.
• Troops were stationed at the garrison, and the soil on the Banks was tillable.

Shipwreck in 1886:

• In 1886, after the Chrissie Wright shipwrecked on Shackelford Banks, some of the drowned crew members were buried in Beaufort.

Diamond City and Abandonment:

• Shackleford Banks once had a settlement called Diamond City, but it was abandoned by 1902.

Isolation from Core Banks in 1933:

• Until 1933, Shackleford Banks was connected to Core Banks, but Barden Inlet was opened by the 1933 Outer Banks Hurricane, separating the two.

Current Status:

• Shackleford Banks is known for its feral horses, monitored by the National Park Service.
• These “Banker horses” provide insight into the pre-domestication lives of horses, and legend has it they are descendants of Spanish Mustangs from a shipwreck.
• Visitors can reach the island by ferry from Morehead City, Beaufort, or Harkers Island, and caution is advised due to the feral nature of the horses.

The history and current status of Shackleford Banks showcase a rich and diverse narrative, from early settlements and land ownership to the unique presence of feral horses on the island.

 

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Getting to Shackleford Banks by Ferry:

Ferry Service Provider: Island Express Ferry Service

• Authorized by Cape Lookout National Seashore and the National Parks Service.
• Passengers are allowed 2 carry-on items, such as a backpack and a chair.
• Provides a unique opportunity to appreciate the Cape Lookout National Seashore from the water, enjoying the sights, sounds, and smells during the journey.

Route: Beaufort to Shackleford Banks

• Duration: 25 minutes each way.
• Drop-off at the west end of Shackleford Banks.
• Cost: $20/adult, $13/child, $7/pet (roundtrip).
• Reservations are recommended and can be made online through Island Express Ferry.
• Reservations are especially crucial, even in the winter season (e.g., March), as limited trips are offered, and cancellations can occur due to high winds.
• Departure Point: 600 Front Street, Beaufort, North Carolina (Beaufort Visitor Information Center).
• Pick-up times are scheduled upon ticket claim.

Additional Information:

• Winter season visits in March may still require reservations due to limited availability.
• Note that ferries from Beaufort to the east end of Shackleford Banks may experience more cancellations than trips from Harkers Island due to high winds.
• The ferry service provides a convenient and scenic mode of transportation to access the remote and undeveloped island.

Tips for Travelers:

• Make reservations in advance, especially during peak seasons or for specific routes.
• Be aware of potential cancellations, especially if traveling to the east end from Beaufort, due to windy conditions.
• Emphasize the need for limited trips and the importance of reservations, ensuring a smoother and planned experience.

Taking the ferry with Island Express Ferry Service appears to be a well-organized and enjoyable way to reach Shackleford Banks, offering passengers the chance to soak in the natural beauty of the Cape Lookout National Seashore during the journey.

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