Elizabeth City, NC, The Dismal Swamp, and Norfolk, VA

Elizabeth City has seen and felt better days. The public docks were decrepit, the shipyard’s phone had been disconnected and neither public marina answered calls on channel 16. Energetically, it was impossible to stay within the city so we continued up the ICW a few miles to Camden and a beautiful creek. We anchored just before a drenching rain. From our spot, we could see the old railroad bridge that marks the entry into the Dismal Swamp, 18 miles before the Dismal Swamp Canal. I spent the rainy evening reading about the history of the Canal and suggest it to everyone. Not the source I have on the boat, but a beginning for you: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dismal_Swamp_Canal

I believe the Dismal Swamp is shrouded by ghosts and paradoxically, by beauty, and we will avoid ever traveling it again. It was long and slow and riddled with logs, timing issues at the swing bridges and locks, and I could not shake the feeling of being “watched”. It was very bizarre and we were grateful for a 10 hour day that landed us in the heart of Norfolk, VA, in the middle of a storm system.

Today we head up the Poqson River to God knows where. We’re working on the destination possibilities as I write this.

May we all be well, happy and healthy. 🙌🏽✌🏽🙏🏽