01/15/2026
"Baylake 250" a limited series by Windy Crutchfield
In 2026, the year of our Semiquincentennial, we are going to recap the historic events that developed our incredible neighborhood. Our first installment is the mystery of the Lost Colony.
In 1587, British Captain John White, his pregnant daughter, and 116 other colonists missed their mark on the soil of the Chesapeake Bay, landing and settling on Roanoke Island in the Outer Banks. The first English child born in America was his granddaughter Virginia Dare. But food was scarce. Returning to England just a month later to resupply with food and essentials, White was prohibited from returning due to the Spanish attack on England in an attempt to overthrow Queen Elizabeth. When he returned three years later, the colonists were gone. Subsequent searches did not find the colonists nor solve the mystery of their disappearance. Some signs indicate that at least part of the colony went south to "Croatoan" or what is now known as Hatteras Island.
In the 1970's historian David Beers Quinn proposed that the colonists came north searching for their original destination on the Chesapeake Bay, writing at least two books about his research and theories. In the current exploration efforts underway on Blackbeard Island, Hayden Dubay has suggested that the man-made island would have required the labor of about 100 men. Could the same colonists from The Lost Colony have resettled here? .
You can experience the mystery of The Lost Colony this summer by visiting Manteo, NC--a quick two hour drive to the Outer Banks and catching the night-time show of the same name. Now in its 89th season. The Lost Colony is one of the most intriguing outdoor theatre experiences on the East Coast. Under the stars of the open-air, waterside theater inside Fort Raleigh, the show tells the true story of America’s first English settlement on Roanoke Island and the mysterious disappearance of its settlers. Catch the talented dancers, stunning costumes, special effects, and powerful storytelling, this summer, Monday -Saturday from June 4-Aug 22. Kids 5 and under are free, 6-12 are half of the $35 adult ticket price (discounts for seniors, military, and students).
Before the evening event, explore Roanoke Island Festival Park, a recreation of the Elizabeth II, a 16th century merchant vessel, interactive experiences, and reenactments of the settlement. Re-fuel with a pre-show dinner at The Lost Colony Tavern in Manteo's walkable harbor town, and if time allows, catch a helicopter tour over Roanoke Island. When you return to Virginia Beach, imagine these lost colonists making their way right into our neighborhood on the Chesapeake Bay.
Discover VB250 fun all year long at www.WindysHomeSite.com/Americas-Birthday
