Behind the Scenes
Some background information...Much of the history of this important event would be lost if not for the efforts of one woman. The project is a grass-roots endeavor initiated by Mrs. Mary Peterkin of New Bern. She became inspired by Ms. Dorcas E. Carter, and her story. Ms. Carter was only eight years old back in 1922, but she was able to recall many details of the fire, and of life after the disaster. Her story, along
with others from that time period will be kept alive through the efforts of Mary Peterkin. Mrs. Peterkin retired from Federal Human Resources a few years back, and now she continues to work tirelessly in an effort to help educate youth about their heritage; and to help them learn the importance of finding their unique place in local history.
THERE’S MORE! See exerpts from newpaper archives, featuring Ms. Carter, in January, 2001 Raleigh News & Observer’s Listening to History series.
Sponsored by
the Uptown Business and Professional Association, and the
New Bern Firemen's Museum. Funding has been provided by The Conservation Fund - Resourceful Committees Program, Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation, and The Craven County Tourism Authority. Corporate Sponsorships are also available, and private (tax deductible)
donations are gladly accepted.
