History of Outer Banks in Timeline

The Outer Banks are a 200-mile chain of barrier islands and spits located off the coast of North Carolina and southeastern Virginia on the East Coast of the United States. They separate several sounds from the Atlantic Ocean and are a major tourist destination known for their expansive beaches and the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. These islands and the surrounding ecosystem play a vital role in biodiversity, with beach grasses and shrubland helping to maintain the land's structure.

December 1903: Wright Brothers' First Flight

In December 1903, Orville and Wilbur Wright flew their Wright Flyer for 12 seconds on the dunes of Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, marking the first heavier-than-air flight in recorded history.

December 17, 1903: Wright brothers' first flight

On December 17, 1903, the Wright brothers achieved the first controlled, powered, heavier-than-air vehicle flight at Kill Devil Hills.

1930: Wright Memorial Bridge Built

In 1930, the Wright Memorial Bridge was built, connecting Point Harbor and Kitty Hawk, and was rehabilitated in 1966.

1957: William B. Umstead Bridge Built

In 1957, the William B. Umstead Bridge was built, connecting Manns Harbor and Manteo, and was rehabilitated in 1966.

1966: Rehabilitation of Wright Memorial Bridge and William B. Umstead Bridge

In 1966, the Wright Memorial Bridge, initially built in 1930, and the William B. Umstead Bridge, initially built in 1957, both underwent rehabilitation.

2002: Virginia Dare Memorial Bridge Completed

In 2002, the Virginia Dare Memorial Bridge was completed, connecting Manns Harbor and Roanoke Island between Manteo and Wanchese.

September 18, 2003: Hurricane Isabel Cuts Hatteras Island in Half

On September 18, 2003, Hurricane Isabel created a 2,000 feet wide and 15 feet deep channel called Isabel Inlet through Hatteras Village, cutting Hatteras Island in half.