European settlement near the Pamlico River in the 1690s led to the founding of Bath, North Carolina's first town, in 1705. By 1708, Bath had 50 people and 12 houses. It soon became North Carolina's first port. Political rivalries, Indian wars, and piracy marked its early years but in 1746 Bath was considered for the colony's capital. However, when county government moved away in the late 1700s, Bath lost most of its importance and trade. Its original town limits encompass a historic district today. Continued
The Site History
- North Carolina's first town
- Explorer and Bath Co-Founder
- Cary's Rebellion — 1711
- The Tuscarora War — 1711-1715
- Blackbeard, otherwise known as "Edward Teach"
- Bath Town Legends
- The Inspiration for the novel "Show Boat"
- 1769 Bath map
- Thomas Draper Photos, Early 20th-century Bath
The Site Today
- Exciting virtual tour of Historic Bath buildings
- Archaeology projects at the site
- A walk through time in Historic Bath
- Palmer-Marsh House
- Bonner House
- St. Thomas Church
- Van Der Veer House
- Glebe House
- Buzzard Hotel
Other Resources/Features
What's New?
- On May 5, 2012 Bath celebrated 50 years of having the Palmer-Marsh and Bonner houses open to the public. The teaching booklet, Unlocking the Doors to Bath's History, tells the story of Bath's past and its preservation efforts. The booklet is produced through a grant from the Historic Bath Foundation, Inc.
- Looking for a memorable venue for your wedding, meeting, or event?
Select locations at Historic Bath are available for special occasions. Contact Bea Latham at (252) 923-3971 for details and pricing. - We now have a Facebook page!
Upcoming
- May 17: Historical Film Series
Thursday 7 - 9pm.
"Swing Time" (1936)
In this classical musical, a gambler named Lucky misses his wedding to a young socialite and must come up with $25,000 for another chance with her. Often cited as the best of the 10 Astaire and Rogers movies, and includes the song "The Way You Look Tonight". The movie has a running time of 1 hour and 44 minutes and is free, with refreshments served. For more information call 252-923-3971. - May 19: Bath Fest
Saturday 11am - 4pm.
This town sponsored arts festival will feature arts and crafts vendors, music and theatrical performances, food booths, hands-on arts and craft activities for children. In addition, Historic Bath staff will offer hands-on activities for all ages on the Bonner House lawn. Admission and activities are free. For more information call 252-923-3971. - May 19: Annual Cut-Throat Croquet Tournament
Saturday 11:00am
Location: Lawn beside Bonner House
Join the Beaufort County Community College Foundation as a participant or spectator as it sponsors the ninth annual Cut-Throat Croquet Tournament. There is a charge for players, free for spectators. Call 252-923-3971.
Historic Bath Information
Contact Us
Historic Bath
P.O. Box 148
207 Carteret Street
Bath, NC 27808
Phone: (252) 923-3971
Email: bath@ncdcr.gov
Hours of Operation
Tuesday-Saturday 9 a.m.-5 p.m.Admission for House Tours
Adults - $2; Students - $1
Includes tours of the Palmer-Marsh and Bonner Houses.