Blackbeard, also known by his real name of Edward Teach, is one of the most notorious pirates to ever be written about in history books, and he made North Carolina his home for part of his life. As a real estate agent in Beaufort, we get lots of questions about where Blackbeard’s house is located. The Hammock House was also called the “white house” and is the oldest home in Beaufort. It is here that Blackbeard stayed during his visits along the Carolina shores, and you can see the home for yourself today!
This property is located on Hammock Lane, just off of Fulford Street in Beaufort. As a private residence, public tours are not allowed, but you can get a glimpse of the place that Blackbeard called home and learn more on the plaque outside on the front lawn.
Since it was built around the year 1700, the Hammock House has been used for a variety of things. It was originally built as an inn, then later used as a residence for Union soldiers during the Civil War. It also served as a summer house, a school, and is now a residence. Because of its bright white color and location at the entrance of an inlet, it was used by sailors as a shipping landmark through the 18th century.
Legend has it that Blackbeard stayed here with a young common-law wife who did not want to be there with him. When he left for sea, he had her killed. It is said that her screams can still be heard on the property to this day... Another fable involves a British Navy Captain who killed his fiance's alleged lover on the second story of the home. Blood stains can still be found on the steps. Even the remains of Union soldiers have been uncovered here.
Is the Hammock House haunted? Perhaps it is… This iconic historical location is shrouded in mystery and draws many wondering eyes each year.
Blackbeard’s ship the Queen Anne’s Revenge is located in the Beaufort Inlet, just twenty feet under water off the shore of Fort Macon State Park. If you’re interested in learning more about the most infamous pirate to dock at North Carolina ports, check out the Beaufort Ghost Walk or Legend of Blackbeard walking tours.
You can also take a ferry to Ocracoke where Blackbeard was trapped and killed by Virginia Governor Alexander Spotswood. While the governor took his head back to Virginia as proof, Blackbeard’s body is likely buried in a mass grave on the island.
No matter where you find yourself in search of more information about Edward Teach, you can be sure that you’ll see some of our state’s finest beaches and beautiful geography in your travels. Perhaps the beauty and intricacies of the coast is what drew Blackbeard to North Carolina, and in that way, maybe you have something in common with one of the most famous pirates in history!