Topics Related to This Day in North Carolina History

Sir Archie and the North Carolina Roots of Thoroughbred Racing

On July 7, 1833, Sir Archie, arguably the greatest thoroughbred in North Carolina history, died at the age of 28.

Gubernatorial Succession Early in the Civil War

John Ellis was elected governor in 1858 and 1860, and was in command at the onset of the Civil War when North Carolina seceded from the Union. On July 7, 1861, Governor Ellis died of tuberculosis and Henry Toole Clark was elevated to fill the position.

Rayon Key to Success of Burlington Mills and Spencer Love

On July 6, 1896, textile industrialist J. Spencer Love was born in Massachusetts.

Flightless Birds Race in Brevard, 1935

On July 6, 1935, an ostrich race was held on Main Street in downtown Brevard.

Joffre Coe, Father of North Carolina Archaeology

On July 5, 1916, widely-respected archaeologist Joffre Coe was born in Greensboro.

From Old Capitol Prison to U.S. Capitol: Zebulon B. Vance

On July 5, 1865, ex-Confederate Governor Zebulon Baird Vance was paroled on his honor after imprisonment at the Old Capitol Prison in Washington, D.C.

The Saluda Grade, Steepest Mainline Rail Grade in the U.S.

A circa postcard showing a tra

The Lost Colony Opens

On July 4, 1937, The Lost Colony debuted on Roanoke Island. Written by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Paul Green, the symphonic play was the first outdoor drama.

Craft Brewery Industry Launched in Manteo, 1986

On July 4, 1986, North Carolina’s first microbrewery opened.

Cornerstone Laid at State Capitol, 1833

On July 4, 1833, builders laid the cornerstone of the State Capitol on Union Square.