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?
- Beginning August 1, 2012, prices for tours of Palmer-Marsh and Bonner Houses will change to the following: $2 per house for adults and $1 per house for children through grade 12.
- 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 Events
- Golden Anniversary
This year-long exhibit highlights Historic Bath's 50 years as a state historic site. See photographs and memorabilia of important people and events from throughout the years. - May 18: Bath Fest
Saturday 11 am - 4 pm
This year's town-sponsored arts festival will have a patriotic theme, and will feature arts and crafts vendors, music and theatrical performances, food booths, and hands-on arts and crafts for children. Free, scheduled tours of the Palmer-Marsh and Bonner Houses will be offered during the day. In addition, the annual Cut-throat Croquet Tournament sponsored by the Beaufort County Community College Foundation, will take place near the Bonner House. There is a charge for players, but not for spectators. For more information on either event 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 am - 5 pmAdmission for House Tours
Adults - $2; Students - $1
Price is "per house" for tours of Palmer-Marsh and Bonner Houses.