The Great Fire of 1922 – 100 Year Anniversary
In 1922, the face of New Bern was forever changed. Over three thousand people were displaced in a fire that raged through the African American community, decimating hundreds of structures.
The fire started at the Rowland Lumber Company on the banks of the Neuse River; within minutes, the largest lumber mill in the state of North Carolina was consumed. A second fire, sparked a few hours later, converged with the first fire, sealing the fate of any wooden clapboard and shingle-roofed homes. Click HERE to read more about this tragic event and its impact on New Bern.
On December 1st through the 3rd, community stakeholders will be commemorating the Great Fire of 1922 with a series of informative events.
Schedule of Events
Thursday, December 1st
- Great Fire Commemoration Vigil at 7 p.m. Location is on the corner of Broad and Rountree. | Lift Every Voice Lyrics
Friday, December 2nd
- Fire of ’22 exhibit at the Firemen’s Museum will be open for hourly tours free of charge from 9 a.m. to noon. | Register Here
- Carol Becton’s presentation at St. Peter’s AME Zion Church at 2 p.m.
Saturday, December 3rd
- Fire of ’22 exhibit open for hourly tours free of charge from noon to 3 p.m. | Register Here
- Carol Becton’s presentation at Cullman Performance Hall at 7 p.m. | Register Here
Sunday, December 4th
- Commemorative Service at St. Peter’s A.M.E Zion Church at 10 a.m. led by Bishop Kenneth Monroe
- Closing Candlelight Vesper Service at St. Cyprian’s Episcopal Church at 5 p.m.
A Special Thanks To Our
Community Stakeholders
