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The Whalehead Club 252.453.9040 |
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About the Site
The Whalehead Club, located in Currituck Heritage Park, was the private residence of Mr. & Mrs. E.C. Knight, Jr. of Philadelphia. Originally named Corolla Island, the Knights built this substantial house along the Atlantic Flyway to satisfy their passion for waterfowl hunting. Thirty-nine of the Knights friends visited them at Corolla Island from 1925-1934, also to enjoy the abundant hunting, which Currituck County is known for. Corolla Island's art nouveau architecture, Tiffany lighting fixtures, corduroy walls and cork flooring contribute to its unique style. The 21,000 square foot structure houses the first basement and elevator on the Outer Banks. The grounds also had the first swimming pool. Originally situated on 4 miles of land from ocean to sound, Corolla Island's history is as rich and colorful as the structure itself. Construction was completed in 1925 and the Knight's resided here every October to January for nine years. Over the years, the Whalehead Club was used for a variety of purposes, including housing for the US Coast Guard, a summer school for boys, and headquarters for Atlantic Research, a company that tested solid rocket fuel. By the early 1970's, development of the Northern Outer Banks expanded and much of the original property was sold. In the 1990's, Currituck County purchased the remaining 39 acres, with the intention of restoring this grand landmark as a Museum. Restoration began in the spring of 1999. The Whalehead Club, pedestrian footbridge and boathouse are listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Additionally, the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission will construct the Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education on the Whalehead Club grounds. It will include exhibit galleries with interpretative displays on waterfowl and hunting heritage and artifacts; fish and fishing heritage and artifacts, ecology and conservation efforts of the area. This invaluable addition to Currituck Heritage Park is scheduled to open in the early summer of 2005. The public is invited to enjoy our spacious grounds on Currituck Sound. Fishing, crabbing and picnicking are encouraged. A covered picnic pavilion can be reserved for family gatherings and may be used by small groups at anytime. There is also a public boat ramp for launching non- - commercial kayaks and small draft boats. A gazebo located on the north side of the footbridge provides the perfect place to view spectacular sunsets any time of the year! Hours of Operation: Daily, 10 AM - 5 PM |
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About the Facilities
Handicap Accessibility: Site is partially accessible Nearest Major Town/City: Corolla, NC For Visitor Information:
PO Box 1160 Grandy, NC 27939 252.453.9497 www.currituckchamber.org chamber@maximnn.net |
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About the Programs
Major Program Areas: 20th Century Industrial Age; Ecology/Environmental Education Education Resources:
Education Coordinator: Edna Baden |
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