Press Releases

The art of barbecuing has evolved in the Americas as explorers, pirates and even Sir Walter Raleigh discovered the natives outdoor cooking technique. Residents of Bath and environs can test their grill skills during the free BBQ Fest, Saturday, June 16, 10 a.m. The time-honored tradition of beer also will be recognized with a beer garden featuring domestic and craft beer and wine that opens at noon.

Genealogy research is a complex subject that involves finding the right resources, keen detective work, and enduring patience.

The deep-water robotic investigation of an unidentified shipwreck off the North Carolina coast will be shown live to guests at the NC Aquarium on Roanoke Island on June 25. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) will conduct the dive 40 miles off the coast of Hatteras Island via a robotic submersible launched from the research vessel Okeanos Explorer.

North Carolina law in the 1750s required able-bodied men ages 16-60 to serve in the colony’s militia. They gathered for military training several times a year and could be called away at any time, leaving their homes and businesses to defend the colony. Fort Dobbs State Historic Site will feature living history interpreters recreating an 18th century militia muster June 30-July 1.

More than 900 people were freed at Stagville Plantation, one of the state’s largest, at the end of the Civil War in 1865. Visit Historic Stagville Saturday, June 9, noon to 5 p.m., to discover the story of the end of slavery in North Carolina. The Juneteenth celebration will include performances, historic cooking demonstrations and interactive activities for all ages.
 

From wood burning pits to high tech grills with ceramic briquettes, North Carolina is in love with barbecue. Historic Bath will host an exhibit June 1 to Aug. 31, which examines barbecue from the Caribbean in the 1500s up to today. The free exhibit debunks some common myths, such as “more is better,” and whether the cooked meat needs to “rest.”

Summer is just around the corner, flowers and trees are blooming, and cool breezes off Lake Phelps stave off the stifling heat. The eighth annual Days Gone By living history event at Somerset Place State Historic Site presents the perfect opportunity to enjoy the beautiful weather.

 This Memorial Day is the ideal time for saluting those who have served the country, and a great time to explore the rich variety of natural and cultural resources of the state. See the great outdoors at a state park, some special offering at a history, science or art museum, or enjoy the launch of Summerfest, the North Carolina Symphony outdoor concert series, over the weekend.

The settlers in what was North Carolina’s western frontier were fed up with dishonest sheriffs, illegal fees and taxation. It was time to fight, and the resulting Battle of Alamance will be re-enacted May 19-20 at Alamance Battlefield State Historic Site. The fee is $2, under 12 are free.