North Carolina Civil War Battlefields and Historic Points of Interest

North Carolina is a state of deep history. From our earliest settlers to the most advanced technology this state has it all. It should come as no surprise that North Carolina also featured prominently in the War Between the States.

The Civil War trail system has been developed to commemorate the 150th anniversary. There are 28 states participating. More information on the trail system can be downloaded here.

My family loves to visit historical sites and parks. When we lived in the state we tried to make full use of our opportunities to see as many historic sites as we could. Here are a few of the Civil War battlefields and sites in North Carolina that we were able to visit and information on other sites as well.

#1 North Carolina Civil War sites and historic points of interest
Coastal Conflict '" Outer Banks
Most people, including many Civil War buffs, don't realize how busy the North Carolina Coast was during the war. Several battles were fought. These earlier battles proved to only be the beginning of the bloodiest war in U.S. History.

From the fall of the forts on Hatteras Island to the Chicamacomico Races there are many battle sites. Not all of these are well marked. Many are without parks and amenities. My family and I found several markers on Hwy. 12 but very few parks.

Visitors entering the Outer Banks from the north should stop by the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site. This is the site of the First Freedman's Colony and is a good place to pick up information on the history of the area.

#2 North Carolina Civil War sites and historic points of interest
Durham
Duke Homestead and Tobacco Museum
Almost any major city has sites, battlefields or points of interest. Durham is a city with a world class hospital and the Duke Homestead and Tobacco Museum. It is a National Historic Landmark and State Historic Site.

Members of the Duke family lived in this home before, during and after the civil war. It's open Tuesday '" Saturday. There is plenty of free parking, living history programs and historic buildings.

Bennett Place State Historic Site
This historic site is an interesting way to spend an afternoon. It was here that the largest group of Confederate soldiers surrendered to Union General William Sherman. Visitors should stop in the visitor center to see the film. It only takes about 20 minutes but helps you interpret what you see around you. In addition to the historic buildings and events, there is also a bookstore, gift shop, picnic area and trails.

Duke Chapel
Although not specifically a Civil War site Duke Chapel is worth a visit. The chapel is the center of Duke University. Admission is free but there is a small parking fee. Self-guided tours are available when the chapel is not in use. A large statue of Confederate General Robert E.Lee graces the chapel entrance.

North Carolina Civil War sites and historic points of interest
Waynesville
According to Civil War Traveler the trail system in Western North Carolina is still being developed.

Cold Mountain is the center of both a novel and movie. Many events depicted in both are part of the real history of this western North Carolina mountain. It is part of the Mt. Pisgah National Forest.

Although there is no city visitors can take the challenging hike to the summit. The rest of us are probably better off viewing the mountain from their car. (Trust me on this.) The mountain is readily visible from Cold Mountain overlook at mile mark 412 on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Sources for North Carolina Civil War sites and historic points of interest:
Personal Experience
Civil War Discovery Trail
Civil War Traveler
Explore Asheville
National Park Service
North Carolina Tourism
Duke University
NC Historic Sites