Smaller map marker approved and cast in 1962. A more complete map marker stands in the park at the foot of East Front Street on the waterfront in New Bern. The text of this sign, one designed to complement other markers dedicated to the Battle of New Bern, follows.
Topics Related to Craven County
State’s first regiment of black Union soldiers rallied here on July 24, 1863. In 1864, designated 35th U.S. Colored Troops.
Merchant, Loyalist, and Governor’s Councilor. He financed construction of Tryon Palace & campaign against Regulators, 1771. House stood 2 blocks S.
First African American Masonic lodge in N.C.; est. 1865. Erected in 1870, the building was moved here in 1920s.
Est. 1802 to serve all local Methodists. After 1864 mother church for the A.M.E. Zion faith, it became St. Peter’s, 1879. Stood 1/10 mi. S.
Fiddler and songwriter. Penned widely-recorded "Orange Blossom Special," bluegrass standard (1938). He was born 1/4 mile S.E.
Congressman, 1935-61. Secured military bases for eastern N.C.; advocated Taft-Hartley labor relations act. Grave 4 blocks northwest.
Pioneer photographer of N.C. and the South. An advocate of equal rights for women. Began career ca. 1904 in this house where she was born.
U.S. Marine Corps Air Station activated 1941 as Cunningham Field for first USMC aviator A.A. Cunningham. MCAS Cherry Point since May 1942.
U.S. Revenue Cutter built in N.C., 1791. Ship was commissioned in 1792 by Revenue Marine (now U.S. Coast Guard), 1/4 mi. W.