In 1998, researchers from the College of William and Mary and the University of Arkansas concluded, after studying growth rings of ancient trees in the Tidewater area, that the worst drought in 800 years played a major role in the disappearance of the Lost Colony of Roanoke. Their findings appeared in the spring of 1998 in an issue of the journal Science.
Visiting Fort Raleigh National Historic Site
The park's visitor center houses a museum with exhibits on the history of the English expeditions and colonies, the "The Lost Colony" on Roanoke Island, and the Civil War and Freeman's colony. A gift shop is operated by Roanoke Island Historical Association.
There are no lodging or camping facilities in the park. They can be found in Manteo and adjacent communities and on the Cape Hatteras National Seashore.
The Lost Colony drama, which has been running since 1937, combines acting, music, and dance to tell the story of the 1587 Roanoke Colony. It is is performed nightly (except Saturday) from early June through late August. For ticket information, call 252-473-3414 or 800-488-5012. Each August 18th, the Park and "The Lost Colony" drama commemorate the birthday of Virginia Dare, born on Roanoke Island on that date in 1587.