Portsmouth Village
Cape Lookout - Outer Banks ghost village
State: North Carolina
County: Carteret County
Founded: 1753
Abandoned: 1971
Portsmouth Village was once the largest town on the Outer Banks—a critical port where ships transferred cargo to shallow-draft vessels. Civil War, hurricanes, and a shifting inlet killed it. The last residents left in 1971. Now preserved by Cape Lookout National Seashore.
Quick Facts
- Was largest town on Outer Banks
- Last two residents left in 1971
- Ferry-only access keeps it remote
- 20+ preserved buildings including church
Location
Address: Cape Lookout National Seashore, North Carolina
Coordinates: 35.0667, -76.0667