Climb a Legend,
Explore a Legacy

The Old Baldy Foundation is a non-profit organization established for the preservation of Old Baldy Lighthouse on Bald Head Island, NC, and for the promotion of and education about the man-made histories of Smith Island. Dive into the rich history of Bald Head Island by climbing Old Baldy and touring the Smith Island Museum of History.

Old Baldy Lighthouse

Climb 108 stairs and 5 landings to reach the top of Old Baldy Lighthouse and its breathtaking view of Bald Head Island and the Cape Fear River estuary.

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Smith Island Museum of History

Located inside the keeper's cottage at Old Baldy Lighthouse, the Smith Island Museum of History orients guests about Bald Head Island's historical significance.

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Old Baldy Grounds

Enjoy this beautiful spot on Bald Head Island which features picnic tables, a nice lawn, the lighthouse's Oil House, interpretive signs, and a very old live oak tree!

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History Tours

Take a two hour in-depth guided tour of Bald Head Island. Your guide will drive across the island while discussing four centuries of Bald Head Island's history.

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Take the Ferry

Old Baldy is located on Bald Head Island which is only accessible by boat, so step aboard. The Bald Head Island ferry in Southport, NC makes trips to and from the island daily.

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Calendar

Oct 13

October 2026 Historic Happy Hour

October 13 | 4:30 PM Tickets: $15 | Beer & wine included Join us for Historic Happy Hour with maritime archaeologist Stephen Atkinson for an evening exploring the fascinating story of a ship with two identities: La Concorde and Blackbeard’s Queen Anne’s Revenge. Stephen will discuss the ongoing archaeological work surrounding these two names and what underwater archaeology can reveal about the ships, people, and histories hidden beneath the water. Enjoy a beer or glass of wine while learning more about one of the most famous shipwrecks connected to North Carolina’s maritime history.

Oct 16