Charles Harry Whedbee (1911–1990)

I came across this book at a beach house while vacationing in OBX. We were caught inside due to the rather turbulent storm (actually watched a fair bit of pier break off and get carried about by the waves) and having little else to do, read. What better reading during that time than the legends of the very town we were staying in and the surrounding area?

This book is exceptionally charming. The stories that are contained within it are ones that pretty much epitomize the experience of being show more an Outer Banker, or at least visiting the Outer Banks. You'll find an abundance of pirates, some Indians, colonialists and porpoises. You'll learn about the wisdom of the Outer Bankers and the foolishness of those inlanders that think they can forget tradition. You''ll learn more than I can possibly express in a short review about the perspective and culture of a place that's slowly changing, having to acclimate to a changing world and the values that come along with it.

I love these books so much. They're time capsules into ways of life and being that are otherwise so difficult to convey. I think it says a lot about the Outer Banks that so many of the stories are still as prevalent as they are today - in particular the way that Nag's Head and Jockey's Ridge got their names - that rely upon the romanticized notion of pirates. Just fascinating stuff.

So, if you're looking for a book that will keep your kids up at night, or you want an amusing look back at a very different perspective and way of life, this is a great book to illuminate the people of that region. show less

This is a fun read about pirate legends in North Carolina, including many references to Blackbeard and stories related to him. I enjoyed the different tales and particularly liked the story about the two women who became pirates while disguising their gender. The last story in the book engages the reader by offering a $1000 reward to anyone who can provide the mysterious punch bowl used in a bizarre Blackbeard ritual. I like the thought that someone may come forward and contact the author.

I show more think this book is especially meaningful to individuals who have been to this area (particularly Ocracoke Island). If you're planning a vacation to North Carolina you might want to check out this book first and then seek out a few tours of haunted places for extra fun. show less

Judge Whedbee is an excellent storyteller with a vast knowledge of North Carolina history and lore. This book is a collection of some of his best stories from various other books, and it's fantastic.

Tales of pirates, ghosts, Indians, and a general mix of all those; there is something in this book for almost everyone. What became of Virginia Dare? Why does the Cedar Grove Cemetery Arch bleed? Does the flaming ship still appear on the night of the new moon in September? Did Judge Whedbee show more himself actually drink from a cup made from the skull of Blackbeard?

Not sure which parts are true, which parts are based on lore, and which parts of just good storytelling; but I certainly want to find out. Whedbee keeps it interesting, and I definitely want to read more. show less

I'm a sucker for North Carolina settings AND good ghost stories, so I really enjoyed this book! Captivating stories, plus some history of North Carolina.