Hidden History of Eagles Island Talk

Discover the hidden history of Eagles Island at the Battleship North Carolina Memorial in Wilmington, April 21, with Dr. Jay C. Martin.

The Battleship North Carolina Memorial will welcome the community for a special public program, “The Hidden History of Eagles Island,” on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. The evening talk will take place in the ship’s Wardroom aboard the historic Battleship North Carolina in Wilmington.

Presented by Executive Director Dr. Jay C. Martin, the program will explore the rich, complex, and often overlooked story of Eagles Island, the land and marsh surrounding the Battleship and one of the most historically significant landscapes in the lower Cape Fear region. While many visitors know the Battleship as a landmark on the Wilmington waterfront, fewer are familiar with the deeper history embedded in the Cape Fear River, the surrounding wetlands, and the evolving human activity that has shaped the area.

From its earliest known history to its influence on the growth of the Wilmington area, Eagles Island has been molded by both natural forces and generations of people who lived, worked, and traveled through the region. Attendees will be invited to look beyond the familiar view of the Battleship and consider the stories held by the marsh, river, and surrounding land—stories that add new context to the Memorial and its place in North Carolina history.

“Eagles Island is a place with a remarkable and often overlooked history,” said Martin. “This program offers an opportunity to better understand the landscape that has shaped so much of this region and the story of the Battleship North Carolina Memorial.”

This event is part of the Battleship’s ongoing effort to connect visitors and local residents with the broader historical and cultural context of the Memorial and its surroundings.

Additional evening talks are planned throughout the year, and the public is encouraged to follow the Battleship’s calendar and social media channels for upcoming announcements.

Tickets and Registration
• Advance online registration: $5
• Admission at the door: $8
• Space is limited

To reserve a spot, register online at https://bit.ly/eagles-island-history.

Location
The program will be held in the Wardroom aboard the Battleship North Carolina, located at 1 Battleship Road, Wilmington, NC.