North Carolina Recovers Centuries-Old Dugout Canoe from South River

A recently discovered dugout canoe, crafted from a single 12-foot log and possibly centuries old, was found bobbing in North Carolina's South River. State officials, working with the Coharie Tribe, successfully recovered the canoe, which is currently stored in a secure pond and will undergo a lengthy preservation process expected to take five to ten years before it is displayed to highlight North Carolina’s cultural heritage. The well-preserved canoe was found exactly where it was last used, underscoring its historical significance, and archaeologists stress careful conservation to prevent damage. Meanwhile, canoe enthusiasts share the joy of the sport, emphasizing the importance of lightweight materials such as aramid composites for better performance and enjoyment, as one paddler describes moving on from an old aluminum canoe to modern alternatives. For those seeking adventure, canoeing on Africa’s rivers offers unique experiences through diverse ecosystems like the Zambezi River, Okavango Delta, and Rufiji River, where paddlers can encounter rich wildlife and dramatic landscapes, but safety precautions remain paramount. These stories together illustrate canoeing’s deep historical roots and continuing appeal as a recreational activity across different contexts.