Blackbeard the Pirate House in Beaufort, North Carolina<!-- Created with AOLpress/2.0 -->
The infamous pirate, Blackbeard, headquartered out of what was shown on ancient maps as the "white house" which was located on what is now Taylor's creek, overlooking the inlet to the Atlantic Ocean at Beaufort. Things have certainly changed a lot over the past 300 years, but that "White House" still remains. Today, the house is referred to as the Hammock House and stands on the original foundation built in 1709.
The Hammock House is the oldest home in Beaufort and has been used for a variety of purposes during its 300 year history. It has had 31 owners who held it for periods varying from less than one year to over 21, the average possession being a little over 9 years. It is believed that it was originally built as an "ordinary", or inn - the owners hoping to profit from sea or land travelers overnight needs. But it's been used, also, as a home, a residence for Union soldiers, a summer house and a school.
The name comes from the fact that the house was built on a "hammock", a "fertile raised area." Because its' two stories made it visible from considerable distance and it occupied land at the entry to the inlet, it served as a shipping landmark until the late 18th century. Originally Taylor's Creek came up to the front lawn of the house and one could paddle up to the area in a small boat and dock off the front porch.
There are many legends and stories connected with the house. Some people believe it to be haunted and it is told that Blackbeard stayed here for a while with a young woman he wished to marry. While many of the young girls were willing to join Blackbeard for the "Loot", this particular girl did not show any affection for Blackbeard, and screamed and cried and fought him. The pirate got so angry with her that he hanged her on an oak tree in the back yard when he departed. Some people say her screams and cries can be heard during the full moon.
Some people believe that Blackbeard himself still haunts the Hammock House.
Another tale frequently told has to do with one Richard Russell, Jr., who, upon his return from a sea voyage decided to take a slave up into the Hammock House attic to punish him. The slave overpowered Russell and pushed him down the stairs, breaking his neck..
Another story has it that a British Navy Captain, engaged to a Beaufort women, upon arriving in town mistakenly thought that his fiancee has been untrue and killed her alleged lover (who turned out to be her brother) in the upper area of the house; traces of the victim's blood can be detected on the treads of the step and he is referred to as the Ghost of the Handsome Soldier.
During the Civil War Union officers were quartered in the house. Three of them set out for the building and were never seen again. In 1915 workmen digging near the back porch found their remains. Proof lies in the buckles and buttons from their uniforms.
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The late Maurice Davis is credited with rescuing the structure from destruction as well as doing considerable research culminating in his book, The History of the Hammock House.
Since so many years have passed, the use to which the house has been put has varied, necessitating changes. Originally, the kitchen and the eating area were in separate structures to reduce the possibility of fire. The double front porch, typical of Bahaman style architecture which clearly dominated the house, originally ran only half way across the front.
The house is furnished in a beautiful style to match its history, wherever possible. Of course, certain additions have been necessary to make the home comfortable and habitable in accordance with our time. You know, little things like indoor plumbing.
The current owners allow the house to be included in Beaufort's Annual Historic Homes Tour. I have the pleasure of working as a docent (dressed as a pirate of course), in the Hammock House this afternoon. I will be showing the property to the hundreds of guests and tourist who are as interested in Blackbeard's House as much as I am.
Definately, not my typical property showing.
For more information about the Historic Homes Tour, visit The Beaufort Historic Site.
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