Pirates invaded the city of Southport Halloween weekend. Dozens of pirates and militia from long ago came back to relive the town's rich history in the inaugural Pyrate Invasion. Re-enactments of battles, including authentic cannon-fire and other historic demonstrations, took onlookers back in time to the days when pirates visited Southport. The purpose of the event: to educate visitors about the town's history, and to have a little fun. “We want people to be familiar with what we are all about, where we've been in the past, and what our future's going to be,” said executive director of Downtown Southport Inc. Peggy McDonald. Nobody was hurt during the pirates' visit. They said their visit was strictly a peaceful venture to seek out more provisions for their ship. The city hopes to host the pirates again.