Airlie Gardens offers tranquility and natural delights all year long. Take a meandering stroll back in time among towering ancient oaks, southern magnolia and native palms. Wander along freshwater lakes, spying on tree-perched egrets and gracefully circling swans. Catch the sunset over scenic Bradley Creek and its ever-changing salt marsh. Airlie dazzles in spring when 27,000 flowering bulbs and over 250,000 azaleas create a festive garden party followed by the Airlie Arts Festival artists displaying their own riot of color and form. Summertime and the living is easy listening to jazz and folk music at the Airlie Concert Series. Autumn draws the community back to the garden for a low country tradition – the Oyster Roast. Finally, the New Year arrives as hundreds of antique camellias get ready to show off their exquisite flowers. Airlie Gardens
The Attmore-Oliver House, built in 1790 by prominent New Bernian Samuel Chapman, is headquarters for the New Bern Historical Society, exhibits 18th- and 19th-century furniture, a unique doll collection, and New Bern historical objects, including Civil War artifacts. Although some artifacts are original to the house, most pieces reflect the period of the Attmore family. The Civil War room displays artifacts, flags, textiles and manuscripts representing both the Union and Confederate. Fee charged. newbernhistory.org
Aurora
The Aurora Fossil Museum collects and displays fossils from the coastal regions of North Carolina and also from other places throughout the world. Their emphasis is on the preservation and display of numerous exhibits of fossil remains that come from the PCS Phosphate mining operation. Using these fossils, the museum tells the story of the formation of the Coastal Plain from the birth of the Atlantic Ocean to the present. The museum has an outdoor fossil bed where children can search for fossils, and the museum sponsors an annual Fossil Festival. Discover prehistoric man, ocean life fifteen million or more years ago and geological formations. The museum boasts a large collection of fossils from the nearby PCS Phosphate mine and allows visitors to see fossilized bones, teeth, shells and coral. aurorafossilmuseum.com
Amity Church
Engelhard, Hyde County
Built in 1850, Amity Church is one of Hyde County's architectural treasurers and the best example of a Greek Revival Church in the county. The church has undergone some twentieth century alterations but still retains many of the original features including a balcony which extends along 3 sides which was referred to as the slave gallery.The original outside shutters are of one piece construction with slats that open and close to control the amount of light. A chandelier has been refurbished and converted to electricity. Outside, the church is surrounded on 3 sides by its cemetery with graves from the 19 and 20th century. The church is one of 10 historic sites on the Hyde County Talking Houses and Historic Places driving tour. These sites are equipped with am radio transmitters which you can tune to from the convenience of your car to learn the history of the area. Amity Church is also on the Historic Lake Landing Landmarks riding tour. Hyde County
Atlantic Coastline Railroad
Dating from abou 1904,is one of the largest and best-preserved railroad stations in eastern North Carolina. The depot currently serves as headquarters for the Beaufort County Arts Council and the freight warehouse is home to the Washington Civic Center and art gallery. washingtonnctourism.com
Ausbon House
Plymouth
Civil War: Bullet holes attest to this home's use as a Southern sniper's nest during a Confederate attempt to take the town Dec. 10, 1862. The Southerners eventually withdrew. The sniper was shot dead here. visitplymouthnc.com
30 Acres and a Mule Farm
Jacksonville
Horses, ponies, family trailrides, hayrides pulled by "lucy the mule", picnic area/grills, play area, petting zoo, stable tour, bubbles the clown, company/church picnics, field trips and setting for outdoor weddings. 30acremule.com
Bald Head Island > 'Old Baldy' Light
Location: BALD HEAD ISLAND/CAPE FEAR RIVER. National Maritime Initiative Inventory of Historic Light Stations more...
Winnabow
Archaeological excavations have unearthed the colonial port town of Brunswick. These excavations are exposed for viewing as well as a visitor center complete with audio visual programming, exhibits, and artifacts. See the extravagant St. Philips Anglican Church walls, as well as a nearby graveyard where many prominent citizens of the 18th century are buried. The 19th century confederate fortification - Fort Anderson is well preserved. Here you will see the large gun platforms which supported Anderson's heavy guns. Visitor center exhibits as well as outdoor exhibits bring to life these two periods of history. A major pre-Revolutionary port on North Carolina's Cape Fear River, Brunswick was razed by British troops in 1776 and never rebuilt. During the Civil War, Fort Anderson was constructed atop the old village site. Colonial foundations dot the present-day tour trail, which crosses the earthworks of the Confederate fort. This serene riverside setting, along with colonial and Civil War history and visitor center exhibits make for a memorable outing. NCDCR
Burgwin-Wright House Museum and Gardens
The Burgwin-Wright House is the oldest house museum in Southeastern North Carolina, built in 1770 by John Burgwin, planter, merchant, and treasurer of the colony of Carolina. The house was occupied as a residence until 1937 when The National Society of The Colonial Dames of America in the state of North Carolina bought it to restore. In 1950 it opened to the public as a house museum interpreting Wilmington's colonial elite. This Georgian style townhouse was built in 1770 for John Burgwin, merchant, planter and colonial official. Beautifully restored and decorated with furnishings of the 18th and early 19th centuries, the Burgwin-Wright House is the oldest museum house in Southeastern North Carolina. It is graced by handsome gardens. A formal, or parterre garden, a terraced garden and an orchard all featuring appropriate plants and trees. Behind this fine colonial home there is a free standing building which houses the kitchen and craft room. Open hearth demonstrations of colonial cooking are presented monthly in the outside kitchen. Burgwin-Wright House
Bellamy Mansion Museum of History and Design Arts
The Bellamy Mansion Museum of History and Design Arts, a stewardship property of Preservation North Carolina, exhibits and interprets the architecture of the Bellamy Mansion and its urban slave quarters. The home is also used for rotating arts exhibits and a variety of educational programs. Built as the city residence of prominent planter Dr. John D. Bellamy, the Bellamy Mansion (c. 1861) is Wilmington's most spectacular example of antebellum architecture. The mansion offers tours, changing exhibits on history and design arts, and an informative look at historic preservation in action. Interpretive programs include the construction of the main house (by slave and free African Americans), archaeological research and the planned reconstruction of the 1859 slave quarters and the carriage house. Civil War: At the outbreak of the war, Wilmington was the largest city in North Carolina with a population of about 10,000. As the Union blockade choked off shipping to Southern ports, the city became critically important to the Confederate war effort. Blockade runners were able to slip into the mouth of the Cape Fear River protected by a series of forts, including the ocean-side Fort Fisher. World commerce flowing into Wilmington was used to fuel Lee's army in Virginia via the Wilmington and Weldon Railroad with connections to Petersburg and Richmond. "Lee's Lifeline" functioned until early 1865 when Union forces captured Fort Fisher, then marched north to occupy Wilmington. Many fine antebellum buildings, including the Bellamy Mansion, are included in a town tour. For more information, stop at the Cape Fear Museum or call 800-222-4757 for general information. Bellamy Mansion
Battleship North Carolina
The Battleship NORTH CAROLINA is the state's memorial to her World War II veterans, an attraction, and a museum interpreting all ships named NORTH CAROLINA. The first ship to bear the name NORTH CAROLINA was the Ship-of-the-Line in the 1820s, followed by the Confederate Ironclad, the World War I-era Armored Cruiser, a never-completed post-World War I Battleship, and, finally, the World War II-era Battleship. Standing with quiet dignity and majesty across from historic downtown Wilmington, the Battleship North Carolina beckons visitors to walk her decks and envision daily life as well as fierce combat situations that her veterans faced in the Pacific Theatre during World War II. Collections include not only the ship herself, but also many artifacts, documents, photographs and works of art. On tour since 1941! Step on board where history took place. Experience the thrill of the most decorated US battleship of WWII with 15 battle stars! Come aboard and explore nine decks, crew's quarters, gun turrets, and much more. This is a tour you won't want to miss! Located at the junction of highways 17/74/76/421 across from historic downtown Wilmington. Hours: Open Every Day! Battleship North Carolina
Bentonville Battleground
Newton Grove
Civil War: NCDCR
Blackbeard's Queen Anne's Revenge Artifacts
Beaufort
Those artifacts from Queen Anne's Revenge that have undergone conservation are on exhibit at the North Carolina Maritime Museum at 315 Front Street in Beaufort
. NCDCR
Beaufort Historic Site
Beaufort
Preservation efforts have kept Old Beaufort
much as it was when the town incorporated in 1722. Tour beautifully restored historic homes interpreted in period style, the old jail, the oldest wood-framed courthouse in the state, an apothecary shop, and the Old Burying Ground. Take a tour aboard a vintage English double-decker bus and hear costumed guides tell tales of Beaufort
’s rich past of pirates, star-crossed lovers and Confederate spies. Stroll through the Mattie King Davis Art Gallery and view the works of local and regional artists. Browse through the Old Beaufort
Gift Shop’s extensive collection of books on local history, hand-woven rugs, locally carved decoys, fresh herbs, pottery, and much more. ## Located in the 400 block of Ann Street in Beaufort
's Historic District, the oldest of the town's cemeteries was established in the early 1700s and was closed by the General Assembly in 1825, fully occupied. The town disagreed, however, and continued burying its loved ones there until the early 1900s. Old Burying Ground inhabitants include a child who died at sea and was buried in a keg of rum, the great NC privateer Capt. Otway Burns and the crew of the Crissie Wright who died when their great schooner went aground at Shackleford Banks during a January storm in 1886. On the National Register of Historic Places, the Old Burying Ground tells many stories of Colonial life in Beaufort, NC
's third oldest town. Tours of the Old Burying Ground are offered by the Beaufort Historic Site from June through September on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Beaufort Historic Site
The Barker House
The Barker House, 1782, was home of Thomas and Penelope Barker. Penelope presided over the famous Edenton Tea Party, 1774. Enjoy our bookshop, featuring books on historical, cultural and economic importance of North Carolina. ## The Edenton Historical Commission was established by the North Carolina General Assembly in 1961 and re-created by the General Assembly in 1973. It's purpose is "to effect and encourage preservation, restoration, and appropriate presentation of the Town of Edenton and Chowan County, as a historic, educational, and esthetic place, to the benefit of the citizens of the place and the state and of visitors." (GS 143B-95) Their offices are located in the Barker House, built 1782 - the home of Thomas and Penelope Barker of Edenton Tea Party fame. historicEdenton.org Edenton.com/history/barker
Battle of Elizabeth City
Civil War: Soon after the Federal capture of Roanoke Island, Union naval forces headed up the Pasquotank River toward Elizabeth City. Standing in their way was the ragged Confederate "Mosquito Fleet," composed of tugs and other small watercraft converted to military use. The US Navy destroyed the small fleet in a Feb. 10, 1862, battle just downriver from Elizabeth City and then occupied the town. Elizabeth City in the Civil War
Belvidere Historic District
The rural Belvidere Historic District is significant for its preservation of the county's rural tradition and the rich Quaker history that began here. Featured in the district are Layden's Country Store, featuring homemade smoked sausages and meats and hoop cheese; and the Piney Woods Friends Meeting House, the successor of the monthly Meeting of Friends established in Perquimans county in the 1670s. Perquimans County Tourism
The center is called Outer Banks at a Glance and includes 17 state-of-the-art displays, a theater and brochure gazebo. Enjoy displays which combine computers, photography, video graphics, period music and sound effects, giving visitors an overview of the Outer Banks. Aycock Brown Welcome Center
Battle of Roanoke Island - Burnside Expedition
Civil War: Union bombardment of the forts located near here just before the infantry attacks that eventually overwhelmed the Confederates, who were outnumbered 4-1. nps.gov
British Cemetery
Ocracoke Island
Much activity took place off the shores of Ocracoke Island during World War II. In May of 1942, the H. M. S. Bedfordshire, one of the armed British trawlers on loan to the United States, sailed out of Morehead City, NC along with her sister escort, the H. M. S. Zeno and joined a convoy of merchant ships to escort them to safe anchorage at Hatteras, NC, some 60 miles away. Exactly what happened next is uncertain, but the last communication from the Bedfordshire was on May 11. It is thought that the Bedfordshire was torpedoed and sunk. On May 14, the bodies of two of her crew were spotted in the surf off Ocracoke Island. The bodies were subsequently identified as sublieutenant Thomas Cunningham, Royal Navy Reserve, and Ordinary Telegraphist Stanley Craig, Royal Navy. They were buried in a small plot of ground adjacent to Alice Wahab Williams family cemetery on Ocracoke. A week later, two more bodies were found, but not identified, and were lain to rest next to Cunningham and Craig. The small cemetery, its grounds kept beautifully landscaped and manicured by the U. S. Coast Guard, perpetually flies a British flag provided each year by the Queen of England. The cemetery is open to the public with no admission charge. This site is one of 10 historic sites on the Hyde County Talking Houses and Historic Places driving tour. These sites are equipped with am radio transmitters which you can tune to from the convenience of your car to learn the history of the area. British Cemetery
The Banker Ponies
Ocracoke Island
Legend has it that the ancestors of the ponies found on Ocracoke Island today came from shipwrecked vessels in the Graveyard of the Atlantic, or from Spanish explorers DeSoto or Cortez. Historians seem to think the ponies came with the Raleigh expeditions and were left on Roanoke Island. The current day ponies are fenced in and cared for by the National Park Service and can be seen grazing on the sparse grasses of the island. Ocracoke Island ponies
Battle of Wyse Fork
Kinston
Civil War: Battle here March 7-10, 1865, was an attempt by Confederates to delay or halt a Federal advance on Goldsboro. The Union move was ordered by Gen. William T. Sherman in order to consolidate Northern forces and open a supply line to the coast. Able to slow the advance a little, the Confederates withdrew and Union troops continued west. This was the second largest battle fought in North Carolina with nearly 25,000 troops involved. March 8 and 10 Confederate attacks against the Union advance toward Kinston. Three miles east of Kinston, Confederate attacks here March 8 seized about 1,000 Union prisoners and forced a Federal retreat back toward New Bern. The tide turned later, with Union troops occupying Kinston. nps.gov
Battle of New Bern (Burnside Expedition)
Civil War: After capturing Roanoke Island, Union Gen. Ambrose Burnside advanced toward New Bern. On March 13, 1862, Union infantry and naval forces approached the city but ran into opposition the next day from Confederates commanded by Gen. Lawrence O'B Branch. After heavy fighting, the Confederate lines were overwhelmed. Retreating Confederates set fire to warehouses full of military supplies and the Trent River bridge as Northern forces closed in by land and water March 14, 1862. New Bern was occupied and became a Federal stronghold in eastern North Carolina. Union officers took up residence in many of the city's finest buildings. The city became the focal point for nearly all Federal activity in North Carolina during the war. nps.gov
On this spot in his pharmacy, Caleb Bradham invented "Brad's Drink" which later he patented as Pepsi-Cola. Today, you can relax and enjoy a Pepsi-Cola at the recreated soda fountain. pepsistore.com
Bank of the Arts - Craven Arts Council & Gallery
Art gallery and arts council housed in a turn-of-the-century bank. Sponsors numerous concerts, shows and arts education programs. cravenarts.net
Historic Bath State Historic Site
Historic Bath State Historic Site interprets 300 years of history of North Carolina's first town. Emphasis is given to the colonial period of Bath's history. The facility includes a visitors center and three historic houses that visitors can tour. NCDCR
Bath State Historic Site
Meander the streets of this historic waterfront community, which was the first incorporated town in NC. Home to Blackbeard the Pirate and the oldest church in North Carolina. Bath features guided tours of the Palmer-Marsh House (c. 1751), furnished Colonial home of wealthy official, and Bonner House (c. 1830), furnished home of a Bath planter. Van Der Veer House (c. 1790) is a self guided tour. Visit our on-site gift shop. The Bath State Historic Site is on the Historic Albemarle Tour. ## Ormond Amphitheater: This new amphitheater is being built for the Bath Tri-cenntenial celebration, and this summer will be the home of Blackbeard the Pirate, as well as other wonderful performances! historicbathnc.com
Belhaven Memorial Museum
The Belhaven Memorial Museum seeks to collect, display, and preserve historical and cultural artifacts and objects and to stimulate and encourage interest and support of the history, art, science, and culture of the Belhaven area, Beaufort County, and eastern North Carolina. The museum builds upon the unique and eclectic original collection of Mrs. Eva Blount Way and is housed on the second floor of the Belhaven Town Hall. Listed on National Register of Historic Places. Museum began as the private collection by Eva Blount Way (1869-1962). Includes 30,000 buttons, dressed-flea wedding couple, antique dolls and toys, Civil War and World War artifacts, old money, furniture, farm tools, period fashions, an antique x-ray machine from a dentists office, and technological antiquities from around the world during the last two centuries. The Belhaven Memorial Museum is on the Historic Albemarle Tour. Belhaven Memorial Museum
Bath A.M.E. Zion Church
Archaeological site along the Bath Bay waterfront in Bath. Bath State Historic Site. Excavated in 1997, the site contains the foundation of the Bath A.M.E. Zion Church, built between 1895 and 1900. The church continued to be used into the 1930s but by 1940, it fell into such disrepair that it was abandoned and had disappeared by the 1950s. A plan to develop the property in the 1960s led to the discovery of an abandoned cemetery that contained some 42 unmarked graves. originalwashington.com
Battle of Washington
Civil War: USS Pickett (Battle of Washington), Trails sign at the waterfront on Stewart Parkway, one block east of Route 17 - On Sept. 6, 1862, Confederates under Maj. Stephen Poole attacked a Union garrison here backed by gunboats including the USS Pickett (which exploded during the battle). Union reinforcements overcame initial Confederate success and drove the attackers away, maintaining Union control of the town. Siege of Washington, Trails sign at the EC Estuarium on Stewart Parkway, three blocks east of Route 17 - Hoping to reestablish Confederate supremacy somewhere in Eastern North Carolina, Gen. D.H. Hill staged actions against New Bern and Washington in March 1863. Unable to accomplish much at New Bern, Hill turned to Washington, besieging the town March 30-April 20. Hill held off Union gunboats downriver and infantry attacks against his fortified position five miles from town. Hill was called away by Lee and the siege was soon lifted by Union reinforcements. history/civilwr1
Battle of Plymouth
Plymouth
Civil War: The last major Confederate victory in North Carolina. Combined water-ground assault April 17-20, 1864, resulted in the Confederates recapturing the town, 2,500 prisoners and 25 cannon. The ironclad CSS Albemarle saw action in the battle of Plymouth and on the Sound in 1864. It was finally sunk Oct. 27, 1864, when the Federals reoccupied its base here. A daring attack by a Union launch commanded by 21-year-old Lt. William B. Cushing, sank the CSS Albemarle here Oct. 27, 1862. The weapon was a cask of gunpowder at the end of a wooden spar impaled the ironclad and exploded. nps.gov
Asa Biggs House
Williamston, Martin County
Civil War: Home of prominent politician and jurist Asa Biggs from 1835 to 1862. Biggs served in the U.S. Senate 1854-1858, becoming a Federal, then Confederate district judge. Built circa 1831, the historic Asa Biggs House was once home to 19th Century attorney, judge and later US Senator Asa Biggs. Over two-thirds of the renovations present on the house today were made during Biggs' residency. Owned by the Martin County Historical Society, the house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Martin County Travel & Tourism Authority & Visitor's Center and the Williamston Partnership for Revitalization occupy the home. Historic Asa Biggs House
Civil War Battle Summary - Expedition against Fort Fisher (December 1864)
Location: New Hanover County. more....
Civil War Battle Summary - Operations against Fort Fisher and Wilmington (January-February 1865)
Location: New Hanover County. Campaign: Operations against Fort Fisher and Wilmington (January-February 1865) more....
Civil War Battle Summary - Wilmington
Location: New Hanover County. Campaign: Operations against Fort Fisher and Wilmington (January-February 1865) more....
Cape Fear Museum of History & Science
Oldest history museum in NC; focus on regional history, cultures, and science; Michael Jordan Discovery Gallery focuses on natural history. Extensive Civil War collection features Wilmington waterfront as it was in 1863 and diorama of 2nd Battle of Fort Fisher, 1865. The Cape Fear Museum collects, preserves, and interprets objects relating to the history, science and cultures of the lower Cape Fear and makes those objects and their interpretations available to the public through educational exhibitions and programs. Exhibits focus on a broad range of topics including the history of Wilmington, navigation, the Civil War, local industry and agriculture, Michael Jordan and other local celebrities, and the natural history of the region. Temporary and rotating exhibits highlight numerous other subjects of interest and allow the museum to display a variety of their interesting holdings and also to feature loaned items from the community and beyond. Cape Fear Museum
Cotton Exchange
8 graciously restored, turn of the century buildings connected by brick walkways, open air courtyards, a walk of fame housing 33 unique, specialty shops. Overlooks the Cape Fear River in Historic Downtown Wilmington, plenty of free parking. Cotton Exchange
Cape Fear Riverboats - Henrietta III
Henrietta III, riverboat offers narrated sightseeing; dinner cruises & holiday cruises on the Cape Fear River. Available for private charters and weddings. Capt. J.N. Maffitt, a vintage World War II Navy Launch, offers public sightseeing cruises and a taxi service from the city-side of the river to the Battleship North Carolina. Also available for private charter. ## Sightseeing and dining cruises on North Carolina's largest riverboat. Dinner dance cruises, narrated sightseeing and lunch cruises, private year round parties, special event cruises and sunset cruises. Cape Fear River Cruises
Core Sound Waterfowl Museum & Heritage Center
Harkers Island
The Core Sound Waterfowl Museum & Heritage Center documents and preserves the cultural heritage of Core Sound through temporary exhibits, demonstrations and events. Its collection is the region's largest of waterfowl art and local decoys. Its gift shop has both antique and contemporary carvings. The Museum's exhibits and activities are located in its new building on Harkers Island, designed after traditional coastal North Carolina hunting clubs. Its community history archive is on line at www.downeasttour.com. The Core Sound Waterfowl Museum brings together the historical, cultural, artistic, environmental, and educational elements of eastern North Carolina to preserve the rich waterfowl heritage associated with the Core Sound area. The museum, when completed, will display the history, culture, crafts and lifestyles of the individual communities of the area. coresound.com
Camden County Heritage Museum
Camden County
Housed in the former Camden County jail circa 1910. The second story cells have been fully restored and are open to the public. The museum is a well preserved reminder of local methods of incarceration at the turn of the century and also documents the history of Camden County with changing exhibits. The Camden County Jail Museum preserves the restored 1910 Camden County jail and exhibits artifacts, photographs, and manuscripts documenting Camden County's unique history and cultural heritage. Exhibits cover a variety of diverse topics including the logging industry in the area, the creation of the Dismal Swamp Canal, local prominent citizens of the past, family history, the Civil War, slavery, and women's history. The history of the jail building and law enforcement are also creatively interpreted. Camden County jail.htm
Chowan Arts Council: A Century of Chowan Through Photographs
A permanent exhibit depicting life in Chowan County from 1850 to 1954 and is located in the Swain School Building. This exhibit features a variety of scenes from by gone days. Handicapped accessible 0pen 10 am - 4 pm Monday - Saturday. Admission Free chowanarts.org
Old Currituck County Jail
The jail is a Jacobean brick building 32' X 20', with a thirty-two inch brick wall. County records refer to the jail as early as 1790, making it one of the oldest jails in North Carolina. Currituck County Tourism
Currituck Courthouse
The original Courthouse was built in 1723. The present courthouse was built prior to 1869: some say as early as 1842. The courthouse now houses the County Commissioners Meeting Room and other County offices. The building is open weekdays. Currituck County Tourism
Historic Currituck Settlement
Includes the Jacobean Jail, the oldest standing jail in North Carolina (1790), and the Currituck Courthouse (1723). The Currituck Sound Ferry leaves the mainland for Knotts Island six times per day, seven days a week. co.currituck.nc.us
Confederate War Memorial
A large pink granite ball mounted on a base with a plaque that reads "To Our Confederate Dead 1861-1865". The Union troops camped on the Courthouse lawn during part of the Civil War and Colonel Henry M. Shaw was in charge of the Eighth Regiment of North Carolina Troops. He lived in Indiantown in Currituck. The settlement is now called Shawboro and he is buried there. He was one of the signers of the Paper of Secession Currituck County Tourism
Corolla Schoolhouse
Built 1890, there was no public school so the children of government employees went to the Government School whose teachers were paid by their parents. Currituck County Tourism
Corolla Post Office & General Store
The orginial half of the building was built in 1884 and the north side addition was added in 1908. The building still contains the old post office boxes, the postmaster window, display boxes and the safe from its historic past. Currituck County Tourism
Currituck Beach Lighthouse, operated by Outer Banks Conservationists, Inc. (OBC), under a lease agreement with the North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources Division of Archives and History, preserves, maintains, and exhibits the 1875 Currituck Beach Lighthouse, its restored Keepers Quarters, and several dependencies for the enjoyment and education of the public. Exhibits interpret the construction, significance, and social history of this lighthouse. Collections including oral histories, institutional archives, photographs, and a variety of miscellaneous published and unpublished manuscripts are housed in the corporate offices of the OBC and at the Outer Banks History Center, both at Festival Park in Manteo. First illuminated on Dec. 1, 1875. Over 1,000,000 red bricks were used to build this lighthouse. Visitors can climb the 214 steps to get a breathtaking view of the ocean and sound. Open 10 to 6 daily, April thru October. Admission is $5.00 for all people 8 years and older. currituckbeachlight.com
Corolla Chapel
The chapel was built in 1885 and served the Community until 1958. It was not used again until 1987 when a new congregation was established. In 2002 a large addition was built to accommodate the growing attendance. The interior of the new addition was built to resemble the style of the original section, even replica pews were installed. Many visitors come to see the pelican altar window and hear its story. The Corolla Chapel is also a popular wedding site. Currituck County Tourism
Cape Hatteras National Seashore: Ocracoke Visitor Center
Ocracoke Island
The Ocracoke Visitor Center seeks to educate visitors about the cultural heritage and natural history of the island. Exhibits focus on the Life Saving Station, the Ocracoke Lighthouse, pirate activity there, Ocracoke's role in the Civil War and in World War II, its British Cemetery, the native horses and other wildlife, and early tourism. Ocracoke Visitor Center
Chicamacomico Lifesaving Station
Chicamacomico Life Saving Station Historic Site preserves and interprets the oldest life saving station in North Carolina. With its original 1874 station, an original 1874 outbuilding, a larger 1911 station, and four other dependencies of various ages original to the site, Chicamacomico Life Saving Station is the most complete extant life saving station in the country. The site provides guided tours, collects and exhibits historical artifacts, and offers a variety of educational programs, lectures, and activities. Located on Hwy. 12. First U.S. Lifesaving Station in North Carolina built and manned in 1874. Original station was converted into a boathouse when a newer station was constructed in 1911; now restored to original structure. The historic seven-building site, with exhibits and displays, including one honoring the African Americans that manned the Pea Island Lifesaving Station, is open mid-April - November. Variety of programs offered during summer months. Call for schedule. Admission charged. chicamacomico.net
The Chicamacomico Races
Civil War: a Confederate attempt to retake the Hatteras forts in early October 1861. The Southerners chased a Federal detachment southward from here, then were chased by Union reinforcements. Hatteras/history/
Cape Hatteras National Seashore: Wright Brothers National Memorial, Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, Bodie Island Lighthouse, Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, Ocracoke Island Lighthouse
Outer Banks
Stretched over 70 miles of barrier islands, Cape Hatteras National Seashore is a fascinating combination of natural and cultural resources and provides a wide variety of recreational and research opportunities relating to the cultural history and natural heritage of the Outer Banks, Shipwrecks, lighthouses, and the U.S. Lifesaving Service. Main offices and research facilities for Fort Raleigh, the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, the Bodie Island Lighthouse, the Wright Brothers Memorial, and the Ocracoke Lighthouse are located at the Fort Raleigh facility. Preserves and protects 75 miles along North Carolina's Outer Banks. National park includes Cape Hatteras Lighthouse and visitors centers at Buxton (year-round), Bodie Island and Ocracoke (seasonal). Free. Fee for camping. Cape Hatteras National Seashore recreation.gov
Christ Episcopal Church
Founded as Craven Parish in 1715, it is the third-oldest church in North Carolina. Visitors may walk the historic church grounds - including the outdoor chapel, which is built over the site of the first church building (1752) - and visit the church building, including the Communion Silver given by King George II in 1752. 320 Pollock St. New Bern, NC 28560 christchurchnewbern.com
The Church Moved by the Hand of God
SwanQuarter, Hyde County
Since the late 19th century, Providence United Methodist Church has been known as "The Church Moved by the Hand of God." Although in the ensuing years the story of this 'miracle' seems to have gotten the actual facts a little mixed up, no one can deny that the simple frame building at the rear of the present brick church seemed to be destined by fate. Somewhat frustrated when their efforts to obtain their chosen site on which to build a church were rebuffed by the land owner, Samuel R. Sadler, the group built on another lot in the village. On September 16, 1876, as their new church was being dedicated, a hurricane hit the village. Reportedly, heavy rains and wind tide pushed in from the Pamlico Sound and flooded the town, until the village and surrounding area were under five feet of water. The winds were strong and relentless, and the new church building was floated off its brick pilings and began the journey which gives the story credence. The church traveled north and then east, eventually reaching the exact piece of property the congregation had earlier attempted to purchase. After turning itself around facing Main Street, the church settled onto this higher piece of ground and remained there. Title to the land was eventually obtained in 1881. The Church Moved by the Hand of God holds regular worship services and the public is invited to attend. The church is one of 10 historic sites on the Hyde County Talking Houses and Historic Places driving tour. These sites are equipped with am radio transmitters which you can tune to from the convenience of your car to learn the history of the area. Hyde County
CSS Neuse State Historic Site & Governor Richard Caswell Memorial
Kinston
The site of the CSS Neuse, one of three Civil War ironclads, and the Richard Caswell Memorial rests on the banks of the Neuse River and tells stories that span two American wars. There is also a visitors center and exhibits including a guided tour of gunboat. Demonstrations are available for scheduled groups. Caswell Memorial is a self-guided museum depicting the life and career of North Carolina's first elected governor. Civil War: CSS Neuse State Historic Site, 2612 W. Vernon Ave. (Highway 70 Business) - The CSS Neuse, named after the river on which it was based, was constructed 1863 amid Confederate hopes the ironclad could help regain control over the rivers and sounds of eastern North Carolina. In April 1864, the Neuse, not yet fully equipped, left Kinston to help with a planned attack against New Bern. Before it reached its target, the Neuse ran aground and eventually returned to its base. On March 12, 1865, she was burned by her crew to prevent capture. The wreck remained in the river until 1963 when it was raised, then located in its present site. A small museum featuring a video presentation and artifacts from the wreck is located a short distance from where the remains of the Neuse (much of the wooden hull) are displayed. Some of the iron plating is displayed with its wooden lower structure. Open Monday-Saturday 9 am-5 pm. Free. 252-522-2091. Operating days and hours change from time to time. Call first. Civil War Trails sign on site. Cat Hole of the Neuse, Trails sign in Neuse Way Park, Heritage Street between King and Caswell streets - Work on the Confederate ironclad CSS Neuse was completed here, taking advantage of the high banks to lower machinery into the vessel. The Neuse steamed out from here April 22, 1864, but soon became stuck on a sandbar and returned. The Neuse fired shots at advancing Union troops March 12, 1865, before being scuttled by its crew. NCDCR
Columbia on the Scuppernong
This 35-acre district consists of a collection of buildings dating from the 19th century to World War I. Architecture styles range from Victorian to Craftsman, Tudor Revival to Romanesque. Self-guided tour. Tyrrell County Tourism
CSS Albemarle
Plymouth
A 3/8-scale, 63-foot replica of this ironclad is moored behind Port O' Plymouth Museum. Upon request for groups, the CSS Albemarle will cruise up the Roanoke, fire its guns and return to its mooring. visitwashingtoncountync.com livinghistoryweekend.com
Cowan Museum
Kenansville
Over 2,000 items fill the historic Kelly-Farrior House that serves as a museum. Artifacts reflecting the heritage of rural North Carolina include farming implements, household items from the 18th and 19th centuries, and tools of all kinds. One-room log schoolhouse, log tobacco barn, one-room furnished log cabin and blacksmith shop on the grounds. Free. Kenansville, Duplin County, NC. Civil War cowanmuseum.com
Dismal Swamp Canal Visitor Center
Camden County
The Dismal Swamp Canal Visitor Center is the first visitor center built off an interstate in North Carolina and the only such facility in the country greeting visitors by both a major highway and historic waterway. The Dismal Swamp Canal, the oldest man-made waterway in the United States still in use today, began construction in 1784 and was completed in 1805. Improvements have been made continually over the years. The canal is part of the Atlantic Inter-coastal Waterway, uses a system of locks to assist navigation, is on the National Register of Historic Places, and has been designated a National Civil Engineering Landmark. The Dismal Swamp Canal Visitor Center provides educational material and programs celebrating the canal's history and significance as well as serving as a state Welcome Center and regional tourism information hub. Welcome Center provides assistance and information to both highway and waterway travelers on historic sites, attractions, special events and travel conditions. Staff assists with lodging and ferry reservations for visitors. Come see us by highway or waterway! Civil War: After Union forces captured Roanoke Island in February 1862, the Northerners turned their attention inland. Among their targets was the Dismal Swamp Canal, which was an important supply artery to Confederates in the area and a potential "back door" to Norfolk. Union infantry unsuccessfully attacked Confederate forts protecting the canal near South Mills April 19, 1862. The Confederates successfully defended key areas of the Dismal Swamp Canal against Union attackers. Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center
A Day At The Farm
Cove City (West of New Bern)
Enjoy this historic dairy farm where you'll see the old dairy barns, milking equipment and period antiques. Other areas of interest include a pumpkin patch, peanut patch, fish and duck pond, farm animals, a swinging playground, hayrides and much more! adayatthefarm.com
Davenport Homestead
Creswell
Built by Daniel Davenport, Washington County's first Senator, in 1800. The homestead has preserved "A Place in Time" and consists of a dwelling house, chick house, salting and smoke house, outhouse, loom house, shelter for farm equipment, hog pen and corncrib. visitwashingtoncountync.com
The Historic L.P. Best House/Duplin County Veterans Museum
Warsaw
Civil War: townofwarsawnc.com
Historic Edenton State Historic Site
Historic Edenton State Historic Site seeks to preserve, maintain, develop, and interpret the James Iredell House, and to help preserve and interpret the numerous other historic structures and locations in the town of Edenton including Saint Paul's Episcopal Church, the Cupola House, the Barker House, and the Chowan County Courthouse. NCDCR
Historic Edenton
Visitor Center, located at 108 North Broad Street provides 14 - minute audiovisual program, exhibits, gift shop, visitor information/orientation. Guided tours of five properties: 1736 St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 1758 Cupola House (National Historic Landmark), circa 1782 Barker House, 1767 Chowan County Courthouse (National Historic Landmark) and early 19th-century Iredell House State Historic Site. Walking and trolley tours available. Visitor Center free. Fee for tours. Open 7 days a week 9:00 - 5:00. Call 252-482-2637 for information about guided tours, special events and programs. NCDCR
Historic Edenton Trolley Tour
Discover the rich history and architectural diversity of Edenton during a comprehensive 45-minute trolley tour thru the historic district. An experienced interpreter introduces you to the people and events that shaped the town - the prominent citizens of Edenton's Golden Age (1750-1800), the African American, builders, educators, and entrepreneurs of the post Civil War period, and the industrial rebirth of the town (1880s-1920s) - while you travel past the beautiful and varied architecture of the historic homes and buildings. Edenton tours
Edenton Bell Battery
Civil War: "St. Paul," one of four cannon cast from bells donated by Edenton churches. The Edenton Bell Battery served throughout the war. The gun with a sign explaining its history is located in front of the Barker House at the foot of Broad Street. historicnenc.com
Elizabeth City's Historic Districts Walking Tours
Self-guided tours of Elizabeth City's six National Register Historic Districts, including the largest number of brick antebellum commercial buildings in the state. Relive Elizabeth City's history by viewing early 19th- and 20th- century storefronts, homes and university buildings. Free tour brochures available from the Elizabeth City Area Chamber of Commerce, Museum of the Albemarle and Dismal Swamp Visitors Center. Elizabeth City online tours
Episcopal Cemetery
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Contains an important collection of gravestones and cast iron fences that illustrate funerary traditions of the 19th and early 20th centuries. Although the oldest date on a headstone is 1724, the cemetery was officially founded in 1828. Free christchurch-ecity.org
Elizabeth City Horse and Carriage Tours
Carolina Carriages offers historic district and waterfront tours in downtown Elizabeth City, NC. Tours will be offered weekends in the late afternoons and early evenings. www.harvestmoonhorses.com/ECtours.html
Edmundson-Fox Memorial
Stone marker commemorates the spot where the first religious service on record was held in the Carolinas. William Edmundson, an English Quaker, presided over the service in 1672. Perquimans County Tourism
A living memorial garden to the English colonists who came to America in 1584-1587. Designed by the renowned firm of Innocenti and Webel, it contains elements of 16th-century statuary, indigenous plants and herbs. Elizabethan Gardens
Elizabeth II
Cross a narrow gang-plank and experience 16th century shipboard life in motion. A 69 foot sailing vessel, representative of those sailed to the New World in 1585, awaits your discovery at Roanoke Island Festival Park. See Roanoke Island Festival Park for additional information. Elizabeth II
Edgecombe County Cultural Arts Council: Blount-Bridgers House
Tarboro
On the point of the highest elevation in the town of Tarboro sits a magnificent Federal style home. Originally called The Grove by its first owner, Thomas Blount, and now known as the Blount-Bridgers House, it serves the Tarboro community as museum, arts center, private reception hall, and public gathering place. Under the shared roof of this historic house are the Town of Tarboro, the Hobson Pittman Gallery Foundation, the Blount-Bridgers House Foundation, and the Edgecombe County Cultural Arts Council. artcom.com
Civil War: Brunswick Town - Fort Anderson State Historic Site
Fort Fisher State Historic Site
Fort Fisher Historic Site preserves, educates and interprets for public benefit the history and structure of Fort Fisher and its significance to the outcome of the Civil War. The visitor center features exhibits on the Civil War, local figures, and a fiber optics map illustrating the Battle of Fort Fisher. It also interprets Fort Fisher's history during World War II, as well as educates on coastline erosion and environmental issues. The earthworks can be accessed from the visitor center and are interpreted year round, including the reenactment of the Battle of Fort Fisher.## At the dawn of the Civil War, the Confederacy took control of a neck of land in Southern North Carolina near the mouth of the Cape Fear River and constructed what was to become the largest and one of the most important earthwork fortifications in the South. Approximately 10% of Fort Fisher remains, along with a restored palisade fence. The visitor center contains interpretive exhibits and an audiovisual presentation. Among the displays are items recovered from sunken blockade-runners. State headquarters for underwater archaeology is also located here. Free. ## Civil War: Confederate fort built between the ocean and the Cape Fear River, guarding the approach to Wilmington. Only about 10 percent of the original fort remains, but what is left is impressive. A visitor center describes the importance of the fort and the battles that eventually resulted in the Union capture Jan. 15, 1865. The visitor center offers a bookshop, audio-visual program, and newly refurbished exhibits tracing the history of the campaign and battles. The centerpiece of the exhibits is a large fiber-optic battle map featuring a three dimensional model of Fort Fisher, thousands of moving lights, and dramatic narration and sound effects illustrating the final bloody hours of Fort Fisher. A tour trail circles the fort's massive remains. A restored gun emplacement at Shepherd's Battery features a fully operational replica of a 32-pdr. seacoast cannon. Wayside exhibits, placed along the tour trail and oceanfront, provide historical context for visitors. Battle Acre features a monument to soldiers who fought here. Also see "Hidden Beneath the Waves," a pavilion exhibit featuring recovered and preserved artifacts from local Shipwrecks (including Civil War era) Fort Fisher
Fort Macon State Park
Fort Macon interprets and preserves the history of this structure. Displayed throughout the fort is the history of the site and its military role from the pre-Civil War era through World War II. Exhibits include the hot shot furnace in the fort yard, bread oven, kitchen and supply areas, and exhibits on the Fort Macon soldier's life. ## Built between 1826 and 1834 to guard the entrance to Beaufort Harbor, this five-sided fort constructed of brick and stone was intermittently garrisoned before being seized by Confederate troops in 1861 at the outbreak of the Civil War. Twenty-six casements are enclosed by outer walls 4.5 feet thick. In April, 1862 the fort was recaptured by Union forces. During the Reconstruction Era, it was used as a prison. Fort Macon was re garrisoned in 1898 for the Spanish-American War and from 1941-1945 during World War II. Today, Fort Macon is one of the finest surviving examples of 19th century military architecture and fortification. Areas of the fort have been restored to depict periods of soldier occupation. Civil War reenactments occur during summer months. You may tour the restored fort daily except Christmas day. Swimming, fishing, a nature trail and picnicking are available daily. Free ## Civil War: Built 1826-1834 to protect the deep-water port at Beaufort
, this fort was taken by North Carolina militia in April 1861. Confederate occupation lasted a little more than a year. Fort Macon fell April 25, 1862 to a Union land-sea operation. The site remains in good shape and is maintained with its Civil War history in mind. Good exhibits located in the casemates. Frequent programs during the summer. Guided and self-guided tours available.
