A small roadside museum and gift shop steeped in Lost Colony lore
Lost Colony Museum and Gifts is a small, independently run museum and gift shop on NC-12 in the village of Buxton, one of the strung-out communities that make up Hatteras Island within Cape Hatteras National Seashore. The name nods to one of American history's oldest unsolved mysteries: the 1587 disappearance of the English colonists who settled North Carolina's Roanoke Island. Inside, expect a mix of local and regional history alongside a gift-shop selection of Outer Banks souvenirs and keepsakes. With no reviews on file yet, it reads as a low-key, independent roadside stop rather than a headline attraction — a reasonable quick browse if you're already in Buxton for the lighthouse or the beach, rather than a dedicated destination on its own. Since NC-12 is the single road connecting the Hatteras Island villages and can close during storms, it's worth checking current road conditions before making a special trip, especially outside peak summer season.
59 reviews
4 months ago
Scott Dawson has done an excellent job. It was awesome to learn so many facts about history in the OBX from the Croatoan to the settlers. The gift shop is incredible with puzzles, books authored by Mr Dawson, shirts, woodwork and more. Definitely worth stopping in.
2 months ago
So much information and cool artifacts! The entire family enjoyed looking around and talking with Scott Dawson. This museum is free and very well organized. I highly recommend stopping by!!
5 months ago
We had a great time visiting this private museum and gift shop. Admission is free. There are many artifacts to see. The owner is an archeologist as is very knowledgeable about local history. This place is a must see if you're interested in history, the Law st Colony or pirates.
6 months ago
My sister and I stopped by today and had a great time learning about the true history of the "Lost Colony" by a very friendly and knowledgeable young man. They also have a great selection in the gift store. I highly recommend people stop in.
3 years ago
A great place to visit with the Family! Slow down as you enter Buxton, NC going south Hwy 12 on Hatteras Island. On the right you will find The Lost Colony Museum and Gifts next to Fatty's Eatery and tours. It's a quaint beachy L shaped boardwalk With Fatty's right there serving Breakfast, Lunch, and scooped ice cream treats. Next door is the Lost Colony Museum and Gifts Shop with a focus on the Croatoan Indian connection to where the Lost Colony went to live harmoniously with the tribe. They are not lost anymore! European Artifacts from that period found on the island are on display! Questions about the Croatoan Indians and the Lost Colony are encouraged and welcomed. See for yourself the evidence and learn about the Croatoan Indians of Hatteras Island.