Roanoke facts for kids

Roanoke is a name with a rich history, especially known for a mysterious early English settlement in North America. It refers to a group of Native American people, an island, and a famous lost colony. Several towns and cities in the United States also share this name.

The Roanoke People: Early Inhabitants

The Roanoke people were a group of Native Americans who lived in what is now eastern North Carolina. They were part of the Algonquian language family, and their territory included Roanoke Island and the nearby mainland. They lived in villages, farmed crops like corn, beans, and squash, and also fished and hunted.

Life Before Europeans Arrived

Before European explorers came, the Roanoke people had a well-organized society. They had chiefs who led their communities, and they traded with other Native American groups in the region. Their homes were often made of wood and reeds, and they were skilled at making tools, pottery, and canoes. They had a deep understanding of their environment and how to use its resources.

The Roanoke Colony: A Lost Settlement

The Roanoke Colony is one of the most famous mysteries in American history. It was an attempt by England to establish a permanent settlement in North America in the late 1500s. The colony was located on Roanoke Island, off the coast of present-day North Carolina.

First Attempts to Settle

The first English attempts to settle on Roanoke Island happened in the mid-1580s. These early groups faced many challenges, including conflicts with the local Roanoke people and difficulties finding enough food. Many of the settlers eventually returned to England.

The "Lost Colony" of 1587

The most well-known attempt began in 1587. A group of about 115 English colonists, led by Governor John White, arrived on Roanoke Island. This group included families, and the first English child born in North America, Virginia Dare, was born there.

Governor White's Return to England

Soon after arriving, Governor White sailed back to England to get more supplies and help for the colony. However, a war between England and Spain, known as the Anglo-Spanish War, made it very difficult for him to return quickly. His ships were needed for the war effort, and he was delayed for three years.

The Mysterious Disappearance

When John White finally returned to Roanoke Island in 1590, he found the settlement deserted. There was no sign of the colonists. The only clues left were the word "CROATOAN" carved into a fence post and "CRO" carved into a tree. Croatoan was the name of a nearby island and a Native American tribe.

What Happened to the Colonists?

To this day, no one knows for sure what happened to the Roanoke colonists. Many theories exist. Some believe they might have moved to Croatoan Island and joined the Native American tribes there. Others think they might have been attacked by hostile tribes or died from disease or starvation. The mystery of the "Lost Colony" continues to fascinate historians and explorers.

Roanoke Island: A Historic Place

Roanoke Island is a barrier island located between the North Carolina mainland and the Outer Banks. It is about 8 miles (13 km) long and 2 miles (3.2 km) wide. Today, it is a popular tourist destination, known for its historical sites and natural beauty.

Modern Roanoke Island

Visitors to Roanoke Island can explore the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, which preserves the location of the original English settlements. There is also a living history museum called the "Lost Colony" outdoor drama, which tells the story of the colonists. The island is also home to the North Carolina Aquarium and the Elizabethan Gardens.

Places Named Roanoke

The name Roanoke is also used for several towns and cities in the United States, often because of their historical connection or geographical proximity to the original Roanoke area or a river named Roanoke.

• Roanoke, Virginia: A large city in southwestern Virginia, known for its railway history and scenic mountain views.
• Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina: A city in northeastern North Carolina, located on the Roanoke River.
• Roanoke, Alabama: A city in Randolph County, Alabama.
• Roanoke, Texas: A city in Denton County, Texas, part of the Dallas-Fort Worth area.