Lake Phelps Canoes: Their History and Preservation
Lake Phelps Canoes: Their History and Preservation
Lake Phelps was an important maritime resource for Native Americans for thousands of years. In the 1980s, 23 dugout canoes were discovered in and around the lake, and four were recovered for further study. Kimberly Kenyon, head conservator for the North Carolina Office of State Conservation Lab in Greenville, is overseeing the re-conservation of three out of the four recovered canoes. Kim will discuss the history of Native American activity around Lake Phelps, the discovery of the canoes, the initial conservation measures taken for those recovered, and the renewed efforts to stabilize them so that they are preserved for generations to come. She will also share details of the canoe recovered from Lake Waccamaw in April 2023. The program is part of our Maritime Heritage Series, informal lectures held in the museum auditorium and focused on North Carolina’s rich maritime history, coastal environment, and culture. Admission is free, and registration is not required.