Topics Related to This Day in North Carolina History

Alfred Moore, Soldier and Supreme Court Justice

On October 15, 1810, Alfred Moore, Revolutionary War officer and associate justice of the United States Supreme Court, died.

University President, U.S. Senator Frank Porter Graham

On October 14, 1886, Frank Porter Graham was born in Fayetteville.

Randall Jarrell, “War Poet”

On October 14, 1965, poet Randall Jarrell was struck and killed by a car while walking at dusk along the side of NC 54 Bypass. At the time, Jarrell was staying in the hospital in Chapel Hill recovering from a suicide attempt and being treated with antidepressants.

Charles Lindbergh Lands in Greensboro

On October 14, 1927, Charles Lindbergh landed at Lindley Field in Greensboro to celebrate its opening.

Jim Thorpe’s Olympic Medals Were Reinstated

On October 13, 1982, Jim Thorpe’s medals from the 1912 Olympics were reinstated. 

Gospel Music’s First Lady, Shirley Caesar of Durham

On October 13, 1938, Shirley Caesar, an award-winning gospel singer and preacher was born in Durham. Her beginnings were humble. She and her 11 siblings lost their father when they were young.

“General” Julian Carr and Tobacco in Durham

Tobacco magnate Julian S. Carr was one of the most popular North Carolinians of his era. A generous philanthropist, he provided the funds for a dormitory at UNC and helped establish Trinity College, the forerunner to Duke.

Thalian Hall Opens in Wilmington

On October 12, 1858, Thalian Hall in Wilmington opened with a gala celebration.

Old East, UNC-Chapel Hill Landmark

On October 12, 1793, Grand Master Mason and future North Carolina governor William R. Davie helped lay the cornerstone of Old East, the nation’s oldest state university building and a dormitory at UNC-Chapel Hill for more than 220 years.

Monument Dedicated 1923 at Bennett Place Symbolizes Unity

On October 12, 1923, the Unity Monument was dedicated at Bennett Place in Durham, memorializing the end of the Civil War and reunification of the country.