Free Lots

This post is in reply to a reader's comment two days ago, questioning the 1885 offer to give away Ocracoke Island building lots.

I don't have any more information about the 1885 offer, but I did run across this notice in the December 10, 1895 issue of the Washington NC. Progress:

"Mr. George Credle is making arrangements to rebuild the pier and cisterns at the Ocracoke Hotel. He expects to put it in good condition and run it in good style. He will lay off lots and let people have them free to erect summer houses upon, who wish to do so and board at the Hotel."

I am not aware of anyone taking advantage of this offer.

Two years later, J.W. McWilliams of Ocracoke ran this notice in the Washington Progress:

"For Sale. Several building lots located on the most desirable part of Ocracoke Island. Parties wishing Summer Homes will find it to their interest to correspond with me. The lots will be sold at one half their vale."

I do not know what the asking price for a lot was in 1897, but a half century later island houses were selling for as little as $500.00.

Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is an article about the Ocracoke Crab Festival which was held each May from 1984 to 1989. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news072114.htm.