Topics Related to This Day in North Carolina History

Medical Pioneer S. S. Satchwell

An image of Satchwell from the

Floyd McKissick and Soul City

A 1970 U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development advertisement for Soul City.

Aviator Louise Thaden and the Ninety-Nines

On November 9, 1979, Louise Thaden, early aviation pioneer, died of a heart attack in High Point.

Alexander H. Stephens Visited the Wilmington Arms Factory

A saber manufactured in the CSA

Photographer Ignatius Brock of Asheville

On November 8, 1950, internationally-renowned photographer and painter Ignatius Brock died at age 83.

Medal of Honor Recipient Lawrence Joel

(Image: Medal of Honor Recipient Lawrence Joel)

On November 8, 1965, Specialist/SFC Lawrence Joel of Winston-Salem, a Korean War veteran, began a routine patrol near Bien Hoa, Vietnam.

William B. Umstead, North Carolina Governor for 22 Months

On November 7, 1954, attorney, teacher, congressman and North Carolina Governor William B. Umstead died of heart failure.

Water Impoundment Began at Fontana Dam

On November 7, 1944, water impoundment began at Fontana Dam in western North Carolina. At 480 feet, Fontana Dam is the highest dam east of the Rocky Mountains.

Ponder Brothers, Madison Powerbrokers

On November 7, 1950, Elymas Yates “E. Y.” Ponder was elected sheriff of mountainous Madison County, defeating Republican incumbent Hubert Davis by 31 votes.

Billy Graham Born in Charlotte

On November 7, 1918, Billy Graham was born in Charlotte. A worldwide symbol of evangelism, he has preached to millions of people. Hundreds of millions more, in every corner of the globe, have heard his message through television, radio, print and film.