Pirate Lore in the

Seafarers beware!

The following account is a collection of myths and legends surrounding pirates of the Delaware Estuary, peppered here and there with verified facts. People love these stories of lawless times and power struggles before the birth of our nation, and the Delaware Estuary played center stage. We hope that you’ll be inspired to share your own stories around a warm fire with a sip of rum and a good view of the bay!

Blackbeard

Captain Blackbeard is the most famous pirate to have used the Delaware Estuary. He kept his favorite mistress at the Plank House in Marcus Hook, Pennsylvania, which today is a preserved historical site and tourist destination. In homage to Mr. Blackbeard’s activities, the Marcus Hook Preservation Society holds an annual Pirate Festival every September. Several other points on our map indicate Blackbeard attacks throughout the estuary.

Islands of Outlaws

The tidal Delaware River and Bay boasts more than 30 islands cover