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Historic Happy Hour Events at Old Baldy
Join us for an unforgettable experience at the Historic Happy Hour Events, hosted at the iconic Old Baldy Lighthouse. Each event features a fascinating guest speaker who will share captivating stories about North Carolina, Coastal Carolina, and Maritime History. Our exciting 2025 lineup is filled with engaging discussions that bring the rich history of our region to life, all while enjoying a refreshing beverage!
Event Details:
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Location: Old Baldy Lighthouse, Bald Head Island
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Ticket Price: $15 (Includes Beer, Wine, and Entry to the Event)
Upcoming Event Dates
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March 18, 2025, 4:30PM: Speaker: Jake Grossman
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Down the Cape Fear: Explore the significance of Bald Head Island and its role in aiding navigation along the Cape Fear River during the Federalist and Jeffersonian eras. The talk examines the growth of North Carolina and the United States in the late 18th century, the need for a lighthouse, the rise and fall of the 1794 lighthouse, and culminates with the construction of Old Baldy.
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April 22, 2025, 4:30PM: Speaker: Dr. Chris E. Fonvielle, Jr. Topic: [To be confirmed]
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May 23, 2025, 4:30PM: Speaker: John Mosely
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“A Forlorn Spit of Land:” Fort Fisher’s World War II Experience – Many are familiar with the role Fort Fisher played in the Civil War, but few know about the role Fort Fisher played when the country entered World War II. For four years, the sound of booming guns returned to the peaceful shores of Fort Fisher training members of the US Army’s Antiaircraft Artillery. The work was hard and dirty but made the difference for these soldiers.
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July 22, 2025, 5:30PM: Speaker: Jack Frayar
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While South Carolina has the most famous Charles Towne in Carolina, the first one was along the banks of the Cape Fear River. Between 1664-1667, Barbadians led by John Vassall and Puritans from Massachusetts established plantations stretching as far as sixty miles along what was then called the Charles River, until neglect by the Lords Proprietors, distractions on the world stage, and a competing settlement doomed the efforts of the hundreds of souls who worked to build the first English outpost below the Albemarle. This is their story.
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August 19, 2025, 5:30PM: Speaker: Dr. Angela Zombek Topic: [To be confirmed]
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September 16, 2025, 4:30PM: Speaker: Frank McMahon Topic: [To be confirmed]
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October 14, 2025, 4:30PM: Speaker: Dr. Kimberly Sherman Topic: [To be confirmed]
Get Your Tickets Now!
Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to explore the history of our beautiful coast while enjoying a drink and a beautiful sunset at Old Baldy Lighthouse. Tickets are just $15 and can be purchased online. Stay tuned for speaker updates and further details.
We are thrilled to have the Henson Building Co. as the official sponsor of our Historic Happy Hour events, helping us continue our mission to preserve and celebrate history.
A special thanks to Ponysaurus Brewing Co. for their generous donation of all the beer served at our 2025 happy hour events—your support makes these gatherings even more memorable!
Beach Chair Historian Program
Become a Beach Chair Historian and join a special group of supporters dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of Bald Head Island and the Lower Cape Fear region. By purchasing a pass for $75, you’ll receive access to all Historic Happy Hours throughout the 2025 season, along with a special gift from the Old Baldy Foundation.
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Your participation as a Beach Chair Historian goes beyond just attending events—it’s an investment in the mission of the Old Baldy Foundation. Your support helps us continue our work in preserving the iconic Old Baldy Lighthouse, historic artifacts, and the rich history of our region. As a Beach Chair Historian, you’re playing an active role in keeping these important stories alive for future generations.
Join us in making history come to life while supporting the preservation of this cherished landmark!