Elsie's House On Howard Street

Nestled among the live oaks, Elsie's House on Ocracoke's fabled Howard Street, a quiet sandy lane in the heart of the village, is just steps away from Silver Lake harbor, shops and restaurants. It was originally built from ship's timbers in 1888 on occasion of the wedding of Simon Garrish to Sarah Howard. It stayed in the family and was last occupied by Irvin Garrish, Ocracoke's first Hyde County Commissioner and ferry Captain and his wife, Elsie Ballance Garrish, the island nurse. Local islanders fondly remember them 'holding court' from the front porch swing, greeting those passing by the shady lane.

In September 2019 Hurricane Dorian flooded our beautiful home and Elsie's was forever changed. We found ourselves on a long wait list to have the house lifted and rebuilt. During this time we reimagined Elsie's rebirth - a place for families and friends to enjoy space to gather together while also providing room to relax and spread out. We kept the charm of the original home while adding new, spacious rooms, additional bedrooms and baths, porches and decks on each of the three levels. AND we now provide under house parking, a cargo lift to help ease the burden of your luggage and security camera protection at lower level back entrance and spiral staircase entrance.

Open the front door and you will be welcomed by the airy space and beautifully reclaimed heart of pine floors. The great room features comfortable seating and a 75 inch smart TV, a well stocked brand new kitchen with items for cooking and dining, and a convenient pantry/laundry. The original part of the home is filled with a cozy parlour, a dining room, and a private den with a 50 inch smart TV.
There are four unique bedrooms, two original to the home and two added. Elsie's has grown from a one bath home to a three and a half bath plus TWO outdoor showers! You will find comfort from the elements with dual central heat and air and unlimited on demand hot water system.
Outdoor living is yours on the many porches and decks.

Right next door is our other home, Myron's Place, giving you the opportunity to rent both if you need more space for larger family gatherings.

Experience the relaxed slow pace of Ocracoke finishing a good book, taking a walk to Springer's Point, riding the waves on the beach, kayaking to Teach's Hole, biking around the village, enjoying a fine meal, or sailing into the sunset...you can do it all and then come home to the warm lantern glow of Elsie's House.