"During the Civil War, Union-occupied Roanoke Island… became home to thousands of former slaves. Initially these refugees settled near the Union headquarters, creating a community that included churches and a school. In the spring of 1863, this camp evolved into a government-sanctioned colony. … Although the Roanoke Island freedmen's colony was an experiment of national significance, few people are aware of its history. This site presents an introduction to the colony and the colonial experiment that was conducted there."
"Located on the Atlantic Ocean near the town of Duck, North Carolina, the FRF is an internationally-recognized coastal observatory. Instruments at the facility constantly record the changing waves, winds, tides, and currents. Central to the facility is a 1840 foot long pier and specialized vehicles."