Beaufort, North Carolina (pronounced Boh' fert), not to be confused with Beaufort, South Carolina (pronounced byu' fert), is one of the oldest towns in the state, having been founded in 1709.  That's 67 years before the USA was even born!

It's a charming little town with inlet waters connecting it to the big ocean, and just a few miles off Emerald Isle. It was a fisherman's village for many, many years...there are still some fishermen here, but now for most of them it's more for sport and tourist money than making a living.

There were 16 homes on the tour, many of them very old...like this 1785 home. I think we did 9 or 10 of them, then our stomachs and my lack of stamina were telling us to stop and get dinner. We don't ignore our hungry tummies when we're on vacation!

A few photos from the gorgeous homes we visited...

How simple and elegant is this centerpiece?! I just need to collect several random wine glasses...

Loving the LONG Santa hat!

Barb and I both agreed our favorite was our last stop...a home built in 1783.  

This handcrafted (by the owner) antique car was parked in the driveway, complete with a Christmas tree on top!

The homeowner had decorated all the wreaths and garlands herself...her theme of starfish and fishing lures may not work well where I live, but they are perfect for a home at the beach!

The garland on the tree is actually red-and-white anchor rope.  And yes, that is a big fish's tail on the wall....these people love to fish!

We had a lovely time walking the quiet, dark streets with the magical background music of ocean waves in our ears....

...on the Beaufort Christmas Walk.