How Shipwrecks Shaped the Destiny of the Outer Banks

For more than 450 years, shipwrecks shaped the destiny of NC’s Outer Banks, creating one of the most intriguing histories and cultures in America. Kevin Duffus presents a wide-ranging discussion of shipwrecks and their legacy — lifesaving, salvage, rumors of wreckers, and the hundreds of forgotten shipwreck victims buried among the dunes. Duffus explains the various causes of shipwrecks, and why there is a Graveyard of the Atlantic in the first place, what it was like for passengers and crew when ships crashed into the breakers along the banks, and the true stories of some of the most incredible rescues. Duffus shares the memories of the last living lighthouse keeper on the Outer Banks, the descendants of lifesavers, residents who played on shipwrecks as children, and one well-known historian who used to dance on the deck of a wrecked vessel. Audience members will also learn precise locations of famous and deadly wrecks, as well as places to see remains of shipwrecks today.