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Ocracoke: The Pearl of The Outer Banks
"Ocracoke: The Pearl of the Outer Banks," the fourth book in Ray McAllister’s award-winning North Carolina coastal series, is a look at the history, the people and the continuing allure of the remote, white-sanded island that draws tens of thousands of tourists each year.
"Ocracoke" tells the island’s story from the early days of Native Americans and European explorers to today’s artists, musicians, fishermen and bicycle-riding tourists. Along the way, it shares the stories of Blackbeard the Pirate’s bloody demise, German U-boat attacks off Ocracoke’s coast, and the role of the iconic 1823 Ocracoke Lighthouse.
Here, too, are portraits of ferries full of visitors, a legendary herd of once-wild ponies, miles of nationally honored beaches, the charmingly unpaved Howard Street and the poignantly serene British Cemetery – along with the inside stories of what draws families back year after year, generation after generation.
"Ocracoke" also presents a striking new proposal from Dr. Stephen Leatherman, the world-famous Dr. Beach, to enhance Ocracoke’s reputation as a world-class walking village.
"Ocracoke: The Pearl of the Outer Banks" is a delightful look at what makes Ocracoke special – and likely always will.
"Ocracoke" tells the island’s story from the early days of Native Americans and European explorers to today’s artists, musicians, fishermen and bicycle-riding tourists. Along the way, it shares the stories of Blackbeard the Pirate’s bloody demise, German U-boat attacks off Ocracoke’s coast, and the role of the iconic 1823 Ocracoke Lighthouse.
Here, too, are portraits of ferries full of visitors, a legendary herd of once-wild ponies, miles of nationally honored beaches, the charmingly unpaved Howard Street and the poignantly serene British Cemetery – along with the inside stories of what draws families back year after year, generation after generation.
"Ocracoke" also presents a striking new proposal from Dr. Stephen Leatherman, the world-famous Dr. Beach, to enhance Ocracoke’s reputation as a world-class walking village.
"Ocracoke: The Pearl of the Outer Banks" is a delightful look at what makes Ocracoke special – and likely always will.
- GenresHistory
242 pages, Hardcover
First published April 29, 2013
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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
December 7, 2016
I had visited here when I was younger, so I was tickled to win this book. I really enjoyed the photograph and it was well-written. I would recommend it to anyone interested in the background of this landmark, or anyone who loves lighthouses in general, as it is quite an interesting read.
My copy of this book was obtained from the Goodreads website and I appreciate the opportunity to read and review it.
My copy of this book was obtained from the Goodreads website and I appreciate the opportunity to read and review it.
February 3, 2019
OCRACOKE: The Pearl of the Outer Banks by Ray McAllister is an engaging series of historical and cultural essays about Ocracoke Island, North Carolina.
Written by longtime Virginia journalist and frequent visitor to this Outer Banks island, the reader should come away with a deeper understanding of the Ocracoke that existed before the tourist age, and the challenges and opportunities faced now by locals in a changing economy and society. On an island that I have visited many times at the edge of the continent, life is challenging but holds unique rewards for the visitor and a type of lifestyle for the longtime resident that cannot be found elsewhere.
The casual visitor to the island should come away with a greater understanding of the people who have lived on this sandbar for generations, and why it so valuable to them.
Each chapter can be a stand-alone essay on the island and fits well with the author's background as a journalist. This book serves as a good introduction to the island.
Written by longtime Virginia journalist and frequent visitor to this Outer Banks island, the reader should come away with a deeper understanding of the Ocracoke that existed before the tourist age, and the challenges and opportunities faced now by locals in a changing economy and society. On an island that I have visited many times at the edge of the continent, life is challenging but holds unique rewards for the visitor and a type of lifestyle for the longtime resident that cannot be found elsewhere.
The casual visitor to the island should come away with a greater understanding of the people who have lived on this sandbar for generations, and why it so valuable to them.
Each chapter can be a stand-alone essay on the island and fits well with the author's background as a journalist. This book serves as a good introduction to the island.
October 28, 2017
I purchased this book recently while on vacation on North Carolina's Outer Banks. Initially I bought it for research for a novel, but I've enjoyed it regardless. Having read the stories, delved into the history, all while smiling, nodding, and wondering how people managed to survive on this ten-mile long or so spit of sand, I can only come up with another thought: I need to visit during my next vacation.
May 7, 2019
Nice little read about Ocracoke, if you've visited or not ...
Seems to be a rehashing of a lot of other books as the author constantly referenced other books. Sad to learn that NC Historian and Author David Stick passed away from this book - I enjoyed reading and learning about the Outer Banks when I was in College.
Seems to be a rehashing of a lot of other books as the author constantly referenced other books. Sad to learn that NC Historian and Author David Stick passed away from this book - I enjoyed reading and learning about the Outer Banks when I was in College.
January 18, 2023
Great overview of Ocracoke Island history
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews