Author: Debbie Tullos
Halifax, North Carolina has seen some of the richest history in the state. Historic Halifax State Historic Site takes you through many eras of American history, specifically highlighting the idea of freedom from different perspectives.
Halifax was the location of a pivotal event in North Carolina history and a significant moment leading up to the Revolutionary War. On April 12, 1776, the Fourth Provincial Congress adopted the Halifax Resolves, the first official action by any colony calling for independence from Great Britain. Later, this spot on the Roanoke River was an important stop on the Underground Railroad as freedom seekers made their way north. But the story of Halifax begins long before European colonists arrived in the area, when ancestors of the Haliwa-Saponi Indian Tribe lived on the land where Halifax now stands.
History buffs with varied interests will find fascinating stories at Historic Halifax. Here are our top 5 suggested Things To Do at Historic Halifax State Historic Site:
Get oriented at the Visitor Center
Start your visit to Historic Halifax at the Visitor Center. Here you’ll have an introduction to the history of Halifax and an overview of everything encompassed at the historic site. Explore the museum and watch the 13-minute film “Halifax: Hub of the Roanoke.” The Visitor Center is your launch area for the self-guided tour.
Tour historic buildings
On the self-guided tour, you’ll have the opportunity to explore several authentically restored and furnished buildings including the 1838 Jail and the 1780 Eagle Tavern. Guided tours of several buildings are also available, including Burgess Law Office, Taproom Tavern, Owens House, the Clerk's Office, and the Sally-Billy House. On these guided tours, you’ll get special access to restricted areas and special demonstrations. Check the tour hours and schedules before you go. Visit Halifax has suggested itineraries to maximize your touring time at the Historic Halifax State Historic Site.
Visit the Magazine Spring
The Magazine Spring at Historic Halifax supplied drinking water to ancestors of the Haliwa-Saponi Indian Tribe long before the existence of Halifax. The Haliwa-Saponi viewed the spring as a sacred place and precious natural resource meant to nourish and serve all people, therefore, they shared the spring with the residents of Halifax and members of migrating tribes. The wood frame springhouse over the spring is a reproduction of the original, which was built around 1915.
Walk the Underground Railroad Trail
The fight for liberty was different for African Americans in Halifax during the Revolutionary War and beyond. Exhibits in the Visitor Center tell the story of African Americans in Halifax through enslavement, fighting in the Revolution, and seeking freedom in the years beyond. While at Historic Halifax, take a drive or walk along the quarter-mile Underground Railroad Trail with waysides telling the stories of local freedom seekers.
Explore historic cemeteries
If you have an appreciation for historic cemeteries, there are two at the Historic Halifax site. The Colonial Cemetery next to Market Square is home to graves as old as 1766. Also at Historic Halifax, you’ll find New Cemetery. This African American cemetery was in use from the time of enslavement through modern times. After falling into disrepair, the cemetery has been under restoration by descendants of those buried there and organizations dedicated to preserving the history of Halifax.
More to Explore:
You can fill an entire day at Historic Halifax, but there is more to see and do in the area. While you’re here, take the time to explore the area further.
- Have a picnic in the beautiful park next to the Visitor Center or enjoy the charm and hospitality of the Town of Halifax with a stroll down King Street for lunch or dinner.
- Visit Medoc Mountain State Park, just 21 miles east of Halifax. This park, loaded with activities and amenities, offers nature lovers a variety of options for outdoor fun. The park is also home to such remarkable North Carolina native species as Lewis’ heartleaf and the Neuse River waterdog.
- Hop onto the North Carolina Science Trail. With more than 90 sites and growing, the NC Science Trail has partner sites along your journey no matter which direction you’re traveling.
- Explore the African American Music Trails of Eastern North Carolina in Nash and Edgecombe Counties. This cultural trail celebrates the unique contributions and influence of African American musicians from this region.
- Come back to Halifax for special events. While Historic Halifax is a great place to visit on any day, check the NC Historic Sites events calendar for special immersive living history programming. Of note is the annual Halifax Resolves Day event. Each April 12, the day the Halifax Resolves was adopted, the town comes alive with living history interpretations, reenactments, fifes and drums, artillery demonstrations, speeches and more.
Historic Halifax State Historic Site
Location: Halifax , NC
County: Halifax
Region: Coast (Inner Coastal Plain)
Interest Area: History