Shipwrecks

On this date in 1885 the schooner "General Banks," loaded with ballast, struck Ocracoke beach in a "fresh gale" about one mile south of Hatteras Inlet. Her sails were torn and she had parted her anchor chain. The Life Saving Crew rowed their surf boat through the rough surf and, in two trips, rescued all four crew members and the captain.

The day before, the schooner "Sudie," with a crew of two, and four passengers, had stranded on nearby "Tarpen Shoal." In just a couple of hours the Life Saving crew was successful in working the Sudie into deeper water.

In 1887, on April 7, the sharpie "Hattie" became stranded on Legged Lump. And in 1861, on April 8, the brig "Black Squall" wrecked on Ocracoke beach. This is a fascinating Ocracoke story -- about circus animals and murder -- but it will have to wait until another day. Look for this tale in a future Ocracoke Newsletter!

Until later, enjoy the burgeoning spring!

You can read our latest newsletter here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news031806.htm. It's the story of traditional quilting on Ocracoke Island.

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