Southport Magazine

Our area enjoys outstanding natural beauty, a wide variety of easily accessible waterways, and an abundance of history, so it’s only fitting that the Southport Historical Society and Adventure Kayak Company have joined forces for Paddle Through History tours. Participants will learn about the history of the Southport area while kayaking through the pristine waters of our local rivers, saltwater marshes, blackwater creeks and Cypress swamps. 

If you do not own a kayak, your kayak and gear will be provided. Your paddling adventure will be led by an experienced Adventure Kayak Company tour guide. A member of the Historical Society will share stories of the early explorations and settlements, plantations, the patriotism of early settlers, the role of river pilots in running the Union blockade, the fall of Fort Fisher, the US Life Saving Service, the development of Oak Island, and efforts to make the town of Smithville (now Southport) the major port of the South.

Emma Thomas, owner of Adventure kayak Company, says these tours are appropriate to all skill levels. “No experience necessary. We will start with basic kayak instruction before getting on the water. For those that have kayaked before, it will a good fresher and maybe pick up a few tips,” she said.

Tours will include about two hours on the water with the entire experience lasting about 2 1/2 hours, according to Thomas. As for as what bring, she has some recommendations. “Wear shoes that can get wet and provide foot protection. No flip flops! Bring water to drink and anything medically you might need. If you have allergies to insect bites/stings bring your Epi-pen, or if you need an inhaler for asthma. Plenty of water to drink and snack if desire. Wear sunglasses, sun screen and hat for sun protection.”

These tours will offer an experience you may not be able to get any other way, Thomas said. “Imagine from the seat of your kayak you will not only learn about the local History pertaining to that body of water, you will have the opportunity of a up close and personal experience at water level. Our paddling route will allow you and your kayak to access areas that you might not be be able to by land.” 

Three tours are planned for Spring of 2021

Tuesday, April 27 at 8:30 am – Oak Island – Paddle on Montgomery Slough and Davis Creek, which are both saltwater marsh areas running from the Lockwood Folly Inlet east to East 40th Street. Hear stories about the development of Oak Island, which started in earnest in the late 1930s led by lumberman Ernest F. Middleton.

Wednesday, May 12 at 8:30 am – Rice Creek –Located in Winnabow, NC. Rice Creek is a blackwater creek that originates in the Bell Swamp and then flows a short distance into Town Creek. Two North Carolina governors lived in the immediate area. Learn their stories and the story of Willian Hilton who explored the area in the mid-1600s.

Friday, June 4 at 9 am – Sheep’s Island – Located on a marsh creek adjacent to the Lockwood Folly River Inlet. This inlet is part of the Cape Fear Civil War Shipwreck District. Explore Sheep’s Island and learn the story of a Confederate blockade runner and two Union blockaders shipwrecked close to the inlet.

Tour Price

Southport Historical Society members will receive a discount on each of the Paddling Through History Tours. $55 General Public; $50 for Southport Historical Society members.

Bring Your Own Boat (BYOB) $30 General Public: $25 for Southport Historical Society members.

To register or if you have questions call (910) 454-0607. Space will be limited. Call early to reserve a space.