by John H Snowden, III
Publisher
Note: “Cast of Characters” is a new biographical feature of Currituck Citizens past and present. If you have an idea for a new biography, email CurrituckNow@gmail.com
Ernie Bowden was a legendary figure of the Currituck Outer Banks, a true native whose life was deeply intertwined with the wild, remote character of Corolla, North Carolina. Born on January 11, 1925, in Currituck County, he was the oldest son of William H. Bowden and Edith Lewark. Ernie lived a long and distinguished life, passing into eternal rest on July 22, 2022, at the remarkable age of 97. His story is a testament to resilience, community service, and a profound connection to the unique coastal environment he called home.
A Native Son of the Outer Banks:
Ernie Bowden was born and raised in the Outer Banks, experiencing firsthand the transformative changes that swept across the remote barrier islands over nearly a century. His father, William H. Bowden, served 24 years in the Coast Guard, a profession that kept the family deeply connected to the sea and the isolated coastal communities. Ernie’s early life was one of self-sufficiency and close-knit community, where boys made slingshots, rode horses, and performed daily chores like gathering driftwood for firewood and carrying water. He witnessed the Outer Banks before widespread development, a time when the beach was flat, and large dunes were not yet common buffers against the ocean.
Instrumental in Coastal Development and Preservation:
Ernie Bowden was a pivotal figure in the development of the Currituck Outer Banks, particularly the areas of Carova Beach and Swan Beach. While these areas are now popular vacation destinations, Ernie was instrumental in their early growth, navigating the complexities of land use and community building in a challenging environment. His deep understanding of the local landscape and its unique needs made him an invaluable asset during this period of transformation.
A Dedicated Public Servant: Currituck County Commissioner:
Ernie’s commitment to his community extended into the realm of public service. He served on the Currituck County Board of Commissioners for an impressive 24 years, holding office on-and-off from 1976 to 2008. This extensive tenure highlights his dedication to local governance and his consistent desire to represent the interests of his fellow citizens. As a commissioner, he played a crucial role in decision-making that shaped the future of Currituck County, balancing development with the preservation of its natural resources. His long service in this capacity underscores his deep understanding of the county’s challenges and opportunities.
State-Level Recognition and Contributions:
Ernie Bowden’s influence reached beyond county lines. He was appointed by Governor Jim Hunt to serve as a member of the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina for six years. This role allowed him to contribute to the state’s broader economic strategies, bringing his unique perspective from the Outer Banks to statewide discussions. He also served on “many state legislative boards,” further demonstrating his commitment to public policy and his willingness to lend his expertise to various governmental initiatives.
In 2009, his lifelong contributions to the state of North Carolina were formally recognized when Governor Mike Easley presented Ernie with the highest civilian award in the state: The Order of the Long Leaf Pine. This prestigious award is given to individuals who have made significant contributions to the state and their communities through their exemplary service and extraordinary accomplishments.
A Passion for Livestock and Horses:
Beyond his public and civic duties, Ernie had a profound passion for agriculture and animals. He enjoyed raising cattle and was deeply involved in the world of horses. He dedicated time to breeding and showing Appaloosa and Quarter horses in various shows up and down the East Coast. This passion for horses was a significant part of his personal life, connecting him to the equestrian traditions that have long been a part of rural North Carolina.
The “Carova Cowboy” and Storyteller:
Ernie was affectionately known as the “Carova Cowboy,” a nickname that perfectly encapsulated his rugged spirit, his connection to the land, and his deep roots in the remote northern Outer Banks. He was renowned for his quick wit, strong principles, and a treasure trove of stories that he loved to share with anyone who stopped by his “forever home” in Carova Beach. These stories provided invaluable insights into the history, challenges, and unique way of life on the Outer Banks, making him a living historian for the region. His recollections were so significant that they became the subject of a book by Clark Twiddy titled, “Memories of the Currituck Outer Banks: As Told by Ernie Bowden,” detailing the transformation of the Outer Banks through his eyes.
Family and Legacy:
While his obituary primarily focuses on his public life, it notes that his greatest accomplishments were his daughter and grandchildren. He is survived by his only child, Shirley Robbins, and his grandsons, Scott Robbins (wife Stephanie) and Matt Robbins, along with great-grandchildren Clay, Whitney, and Avery, all residing in Virginia Beach.
Ernie Bowden’s life was a rich tapestry woven with threads of public service, entrepreneurial spirit, and a deep love for the natural world and his family. He witnessed and actively participated in the evolution of the Currituck Outer Banks from a remote, isolated area to a thriving, yet still wild, destination. His legacy is etched into the landscape he helped shape and the community he tirelessly served. He will be fondly remembered for his contributions, his character, and the captivating stories that preserved the essence of old Corolla. His passing marked the end of an era, but his influence will continue to resonate for generations to come.
