History of Outer Banks in Timeline
The Outer Banks are a 200-mile stretch of barrier islands located off the coast of North Carolina and Virginia. These islands separate several sounds from the Atlantic Ocean and are known for their extensive beaches and the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Popular with tourists, the Outer Banks boast a diverse ecosystem with beach grasses and shrubland playing a vital role in preserving the land's shape.
December 17, 1903: First Successful Airplane Flight
On December 17, 1903, the Wright brothers conducted their first successful flight in a controlled, powered, heavier-than-air vehicle at Kill Devil Hills in the Outer Banks.
1930: Construction of the Wright Memorial Bridge
The Wright Memorial Bridge, connecting Point Harbor and Kitty Hawk, was constructed in 1930, improving access to the Outer Banks.
1957: William B. Umstead Bridge Opens
The William B. Umstead Bridge, connecting Manns Harbor and Manteo on Roanoke Island, was completed in 1957, further improving access to the Outer Banks.
1966: Bridge Renovations Enhance Access
Both the Wright Memorial Bridge and the William B. Umstead Bridge underwent rehabilitation in 1966, ensuring continued access to the Outer Banks for residents and visitors.
2002: Virginia Dare Memorial Bridge Expands Transportation Options
The Virginia Dare Memorial Bridge, a new route connecting Manns Harbor and Roanoke Island, was completed in 2002, providing an alternative route to the Outer Banks and easing traffic congestion.
September 18, 2003: Hurricane Isabel Creates Isabel Inlet
On September 18, 2003, Hurricane Isabel caused significant damage to Hatteras Island, creating a 2,000-foot wide channel called Isabel Inlet. This event highlighted the vulnerability of the Outer Banks to storm surge and erosion.
2011: Hurricane Irene Further Impacts Hatteras Island
Adding to the damage caused by Hurricane Isabel in 2003, Hurricane Irene struck Hatteras Island in 2011, cutting off access to the island for several months.
2011: Hurricane Irene Impacts the Outer Banks
In 2011, Hurricane Irene struck the Outer Banks causing significant damage to infrastructure and property. This event highlighted the region's vulnerability to tropical storms and the increasing impacts of climate change.
2011: Hurricane Irene Impacts the Outer Banks
In 2011, Hurricane Irene struck the Outer Banks causing significant damage to infrastructure and property. This event highlighted the region's vulnerability to tropical storms and the increasing impacts of climate change.
2014: Erosion Threatens Hatteras Island
By 2014, portions of Hatteras Island had eroded to just 25% of their original width, highlighting the severe impact of coastal erosion on the Outer Banks.
2014: Erosion Threatens Hatteras Island
By 2014, portions of Hatteras Island had eroded to just 25% of their original width, highlighting the severe impact of coastal erosion on the Outer Banks.
2015: Rising Sea Levels Impact the Outer Banks
By 2015, sea levels in some areas of the Outer Banks had risen by 5 inches since 2011, exacerbating coastal erosion and raising concerns about the long-term viability of the islands.
2015: Rising Sea Levels Impact the Outer Banks
By 2015, sea levels in some areas of the Outer Banks had risen by 5 inches since 2011, exacerbating coastal erosion and raising concerns about the long-term viability of the islands.