Travel Guides Crafted by Experienced Archaeologists & Historians
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North Carolina
Art, History & Archaeology Sites & Museums

Bordering the Atlantic Ocean, North Carolina was one of the original 13 colonies that formed the United States, subsequently becoming the 12th state of the Union in 1789. Archaeologists classify many of its pre-Columbian inhabitants as belonging to the Woodland and Mississippian Cultures, while at the time of European contact the dominant indigenous groups were the Tuscarora, the Catawba, and the Cherokee. English settlements emerged in the 16th century, with the term “Carolina” arising in reference to King Charles I. One of the southern states, it joined the Confederacy only after the Civil War had broken out, having been more reluctant to do so than neighbouring South Carolina.

Archaeology & History Sites in North Carolina

Battleship North Carolina

The USS North Carolina was one of the first modern battleships to enter service of the US Navy, officially commissioned in April of 1941. After Americans joined World War II, the ‘Showboat’ would go on to participate in every major offensive in the Pacific theatre – earning 15 battle stars, more than any other US battleship achieved during WWII. After being rescued in 1962 by the citizens of North Carolina from being sold for scrap, the battleship was turned into a museum and memorial to North Carolinians who served and died in WWII.

© Jameslwoodward 7 Wikimedia
The front façade of the Bellamy Mansion in Willmington, NC:

Bellamy Mansion Museum

Built between 1859 and 1861, the Bellamy Mansion was created as a home for John D. Bellamy, a wealthy doctor and merchant. The architect behind the project was James F. Post, who drew upon Greek Revival, Italianate, and Neoclassical elements in designing the structure. As well as housing the Bellamy family, the mansion was also a place of work and residence for various enslaved African Americans. Their story is highlighted in particular at the brick-built slave quarters, also designed by Post, located outside the main house itself.

Half-Day E-Bike Tour of Wilmington's History, Haunts & Breweries

Museums & Art Galleries in North Carolina

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