History Under A Black Flag

Murderers and thieves or free-thinking counter-culture? A blip on the screen of time or essential players in American history?  A pop culture fantasy or a current threat? The mere mention of pirates and privateers stirs strong opinions in many and devotion in others.

The National Park Service tells the true tales of pirates and privateers and protects the places where this history actually happened.

tropical beach with small island
List of Parks

Find parks with stories of pirates and privateering to tell.

People in various uniforms stand in a row
Events & Programs

Forts, seashores, coasts, and ports form the backdrop of the many events and programs you can attend to experience pirate history.

A small child looking through binoculars
Kids & Education

The stories of pirates and privateering are a launchpad for learning about history, commerce, and the formation of land and seascapes.

Last updated: September 16, 2016