by Nancy J. Figiel, Director of Public Affairs
The holidays are here! Tryon Palace and the North Carolina History Center are fully decorated, and we are ready for our Candlelight holiday event. Hopefully you have purchased your tickets. If not, I urge you to do it today as the event has sold out in recent years. This year’s Candlelight is unique. With the semisesquicentennial just around the corner, Farewell to our Royal Governors! sets the stage and takes you back to the beginnings of the American Revolution in New Bern. The last North Carolina Royal Governor, Josiah Martin, has deserted his post and there are no official residents living in the Palace. However, the townspeople are making good use of the Palace’s many rooms. The newly organized state government is auctioning Martin’s furniture and belongings for needed war funds. Within a year, the Declaration of Independence will be signed, and Richard Caswell will be elected as the first North Carolina State Governor in November 1776, inaugurated in the Palace’s Council Chambers.
As the last seat of government for British rule and the first for the North Carolina under the new government, Tryon Palace will have center stage in 2026, and there are many plans to commemorate the semisesquicentennial! The New Year welcomes the North Carolina History Series, in partnership with the Craven Community College Lifetime Learning Center. The three lectures will focus on our nation’s founding with topics related to colonial and revolutionary history. Beginning in February, our Caswell’s Capitol tour will be offered on the third Thursday of every month and is a must for history buffs of the Revolution. Also in February, expect lectures by Dr. Michael Hattem, an historian of the American Revolution and Historical Memory, who authored The Memory of ’76: The Revolution in American History. Our Glorious 4th commemoration will begin with the traditional Fife & Drum performance followed by the reading of the Declaration of Independence, and musket firings. However, these events will directly precede a fabulous city-wide Fourth of July parade in celebration of the 250th. Stay tuned to our website and social media for updates.
The new year will also welcome the installation of our Inclusive Public Art Project on the Tryon Palace Foundation’s Wilson Park in downtown New Bern. This art piece will capture the inspiring stories of the African American Artisans and Crafts people who from 1770 to 1835, thrived as vibrant participants in the community of New Bern, building much of the city and providing industries vital to the city’s growth and sustainability. Many purchased their own freedom and that of others as well. Look for our upcoming community engagement programs on this project to learn more.
But for now, let’s return to December. On behalf of Tryon Palace, I want to wish everyone a very, happy and joyous holiday season. Let it be filled with family, friends and great memories. And as we celebrate the “days gone by,” and welcome in the beginnings of a new year, may the new year bring you hope, laughter, health, peace and happiness.