a year ago
The Cora Mae Daniels Basnight Bridge, which connects downtown Manteo to Roanoke Island Festival Park, was dedicated in 1984 to honor one of the town’s most beloved cultural figures. Cora Mae Basnight, born in 1910, was a lifelong resident of Manteo and a passionate advocate for the arts, women’s rights, and community revitalization. She famously portrayed the character Agona in The Lost Colony outdoor drama for 27 consecutive years, earning recognition from the American Theater and the Governor of North Carolina for her contributions to American theater. The bridge’s naming coincided with the 400th anniversary of Roanoke Island’s colonization, symbolizing Basnight’s enduring legacy in both local history and cultural heritage. Architecturally, it’s a low-profile pedestrian and vehicular bridge designed to harmonize with the historic waterfront, offering unobstructed views of Shallowbag Bay and easy access to cultural landmarks. While not grand in scale, its clean lines and functional design reflect the town’s commitment to accessibility and preservation, serving both locals and visitors as a gateway to the island’s artistic and historical heart.
