The HAMMOCK HOUSE circa 1709

When this oldest Beaufort home was built it would have most likely been nestled in groves of water oak, cedar, and yaupon—and on the banks, covered with wild grape and tangled vines, of what is now Taylor’s Creek overlooking the inlet to the Atlantic Ocean. At one time a small boat could paddle up the area and be tied to one of its front columns.

The structure was noted on the first maps as the “White House,” and stood as a landmark to guide mariners into the inlet. It later came to be known as The Hammock House due to its locale.

Even though legend ties this house to Blackbeard and other pirates and traders during its early years, it was most likely built as an inn or “ordinary” to house sea and land travelers. It has been used over the years as a home, a residence for Union soldiers, a summerhouse, and a school.