Topics Related to This Day in North Carolina History

Look a-Yonder Comin’: “Orange Blossom Special” and Ervin Rouse

On July 3, 1981, Ervin Rouse, composer of “Orange Blossom Special,” the “unofficial anthem of bluegrass,” died. Plagued by alcoholism and mental illness, he was living on the edge of the Everglades and playing local taverns occasionally for tips.

The “Sable Orator” and Poet, George Moses Horton

On July 2, 1829, Raleigh printer Joseph Gales published George Moses Horton’s The Hope of Liberty, the first book by an African American in the South. Horton’s life story, and how he became a published poet while enslaved, is compelling.

I.E. Avery’s Words for His Father, the “Letter from the Dead”

On July 3, 1863, 34-year-old Lt. Colonel Isaac E. Avery of the 6th North Carolina State Troops died from mortal wounds he received the previous day.

First ABC Store Opens in Wilson

On July 2, 1935, the state’s first Alcoholic Beverage Commission—ABC, for short—Store opened in Wilson to an excited public. The store offered legal alcohol in the state for the first time in 26 years.

Bechtlers Advertise Their Coins, 1831

On July 2, 1831, an advertisement appeared promoting gold coins minted by the Bechtlers in Rutherford County.

Pauli Murray Broke Barriers

Anna Pauline "Pauli" Murray was a groundbreaking lawyer, professor, writer and outspoken civil and women's rights activist from Durham.

Outdoor Drama at Cherokee Revived

On July 1, 1950, the outdoor drama Unto These Hills premiered to a capacity crowd at the Mountainside Theater in Cherokee.

North Carolina’s 4-H Clubs Rooted in Ahoskie

On July 1, 1909, I. O. Schaub, a North Carolina State University researcher, organized the first Corn Club in Ahoskie. The club was eventually recognized as North Carolina’s first 4-H club.

Linville Caverns: McDowell County’s “Wondrous Splendors” Open to the Public

On July 1, 1939, Linville Caverns, North Carolina’s only show cave, opened to the public.

Freedom Rallies Began in Williamston, 1963

On June 30, 1963, a month of protests known as “Freedom Rallies” began in Williamston.