Topics Related to Things to Do

On March 21-22, 2020, thousands of living historians from across the country will descend on Bentonville Battlefield for the 155th Anniversary reenactment of North Carolina’s largest battle. Over 3,000 participants are expected for the two-day event, making it one of the country’s largest reenactments in 2020.  

The American Library Association has designated September as Library Card Sign-up Month. In recognition and support of this month-long event and to build awareness of library resources and services, the State Library of North Carolina's Government & Heritage Library will host an open house Wednesday, Sept. 18, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. on the first floor of the Archives and History/State Library Building, 109 E. Jones St., Raleigh.

The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources will commemorate the 100th anniversary of women’s suffrage on the grounds of the State Capitol at a kick-off event for “She Changed the World: NC Women Breaking Barriers” Saturday, Sept. 7 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

The sounds of artillery and musket fire will once again ring out at Bentonville Battlefield State Historic Site. The annual summer artillery living history program will be held Saturday, Aug. 24, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 



Costumed living historians will demonstrate how soldiers made meals, maintained their weapons, equipment and uniforms, trained for battle, withstood the weather and much more. This free program will feature artillery and musket firings at 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m.  

In the summer of 1755, a company of soldiers began construction of Fort Dobbs to protect the western frontier of the colony of North Carolina. A full-scale replica of that fort will open 264 years later, Saturday and Sunday, Sept.21-22, in Statesville.

Spying is sometimes known as the world’s second oldest profession. Nineteenth century notions about a woman’s place and capabilities set the stage for hundreds of women to become spies during the American Civil War. “Beautiful Deception” is an exhibit at the CSS Neuse Civil War Interpretive Center through January 2020 about some fabled Civil War era spies.

Take a break from the backyard barbecues and beach volleyball to savor history and nature this July 4 weekend. 

 

Most able-bodied men were required by North Carolina law to serve in the colony’s militia in the 1750s. They gathered several times a year for military training and could be called away at any time, leaving homes and businesses to defend the colony. Fort Dobbs State Historic Site will feature living history interpreters recreating an 18th century militia muster June 29.

See the magic and skill as fabric, tools or toys take shape at the “Saturday on the Farm” program June 22, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Governor Aycock Birthplace State Historic Site. The free event will showcase blacksmithing, woodworking and spinning talents and will celebrate 19th century North Carolina farm life. Music will be performed by the Waterbound Dulcimers in the morning.