The Blockade Runner Project

Used heavily during the American Civil War, a blockade runner was a cargo ship designed to quickly maneuver past the Union blockade of southern ports.

As one of the South's most important ports during the war, Wilmington, North Carolina became a primary destination for blockade runners.

Civil War Era Etching of a Blockade Runner at Sea

An etching of an 1865 sail and steam blockade runner

The Blockade Runner Project is dedicated to building a fully-functional replica of a blockade runner ship that would fulfill a variety of educational purposes and serve as a "living" museum. When completed, the ship would serve as a unique educational tool for North Carolina's youth and would support the local tourism industry.

Community participation and financial contributions are vital to make this project a success.

If you are interested in making a financial contribution or volunteering your time to the effort, please complete the online form.

With your support, the Blockade Runner Project will become a major achievement and source of pride for our region and the entire state of North Carolina.

For more information, please contact

Dick Hitchcock
(910) 395-7037
rhitchcock@ec.rr.com