Jurors find Blackbeard not guilty of piracy, but judge overturns verdict

The courtroom was full Friday afternoon at the Beaufort County Courthouse as a hearing was held to reconsider the guilt or innocence of the pirate Blackbeard.

The mock trial was held before Superior Judge Carlton Cole, while actors played the roles of Blackbeard, North Carolina Governor Charles Eden, Virginia Lt. Governor Alexander Spotswood, and others.

Blackbeard, who lived in Bath, and his shipmates were arrested on suspicion of piracy. Four trials were held in Williamsburg, Virginia in November 1718 and early 1719.

After the hour-long re-trial, a jury made up of military history students from Bath Elementary School, decided Blackbeard was not guilty. But Judge Cole overturned that verdict and found the pirate guilty.

The judge said this all was a great history lesson for Beaufort County students and others who attended the hearing.

The mock trial is part of the tricentennial of Blackbeard's death.

Events continue Friday night at the Turnage Theatre in Washington and resume Saturday in Bath.