Celebrate North Carolina’s Independence in Fayetteville!

"The only foundation of a free Constitution, is pure virtue, and if this cannot be inspired into our people, in a greater measure than they have it now, they may change their rulers, and the forms of government, but they will not obtain a lasting liberty."
--John Adams, letter to Zabdiel Adams, 1776
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Fayetteville’s War Between the States Sesquicentennial

North Carolina’s Ordinance of Secession!

May 20, 2011

Historic Downtown Fayetteville

5PM-9PM

150 years after North Carolina declared Independence on May 20, 1861.

May 20^th was a much-revered date in North Carolina---that of the Historic Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence in 1775.

Ada Amelia’s Diary entry of Tuesday, May 21^st, 1861 states:

“the centenary celebration is near at hand. It is likely to be hereafter marked by a still more solemn

and important event in the history of the State.

It will be known, we trust, as the anniversary not only of the first, but of the second

and crowning declaration and act of independence for the old State.”

(read more of North Carolina’s role in the War Between the States at www.ncwbts150.com)

Period Military & Civilian Dress is Encouraged.

Schedule of Events:

5:00PM:

“Arrive at Five.”

Enjoy one of Historic Downtown Fayetteville’s unique restaurants. See www.fayettevillealliance.com for a restaurant guide. Also open will be the nearby

Fayetteville Independent Light Infantry Museum (210 Burgess Street) and the Historic Rail Depot/Transportation Museum (325 Franklin Street).

Both within walking distance of Historic Hay Street.

7:30PM:

Fayetteville Light Infantry Museum

210 Burgess Street

Brief overview of North Carolina’s decision to secede from the Union,

Presented by Bernhard Thuersam, Director, Cape Fear Historical Institute (www.cfhi.net).

7:45PM:

Sesquicentennial Reading of North Carolina’s Secession Ordinance by Mayor Archibald MacLaine,

portrayed by Bruce Tyson, Commander, Fayetteville Arsenal Camp, NC SCV.

8:00PM:

Toasts to Secession and Independence!

Attendees retire to Historic Hay Street taverns for Secession Toasts and Historic Celebration!

Next celebration will take place on May 20, 2061.

Sponsored by:

Fayetteville Light Infantry Museum

Cape Fear Historical Institute

Fayetteville Arsenal Camp, NC SCV

Black River Tigers Camp, NC SCV

North Carolina WBTS Sesquicentennial Commission

www.ncwbts150.com

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Via Bernhard