Governor Caswell State Historic Site

Learn about North Carolina's first governor and see a gunboat that was used in the Civil War.

You will gain a deeper understanding of the history of colonial America in the South during your visit. Richard Caswell was a prominent military leader during the American Revolutionary War and was also elected to the Continental Congress in 1774. He was the first governor of North Carolina and established the state’s very first constitution. 

Nearby, you can also see a gunboat, the CSS Neuse, an ironclad steamer commissioned in the Civil War. It was never used outside of the Kingston area largely due to lack of water in the Neuse River and delays in its construction. It was burned and subsequently left in the river back in 1865. Recovery efforts to retrieve this boat didn't occur until the 1960s, but it is now on display at the civil war interpretive center on Queen Street. Remarkably, thousands of artifacts were preserved inside the vessel providing us with insight into the naval warfare of the time.

Admission fees are very affordable at this historic site; however, hours tend to vary. Visitors may call ahead to get discounts on groups of 10 or more. If you love history and want to learn more about the colonial era and events in the Southern region of the United States, be sure to stop by here during your visit to North Carolina.