BURGAW — As the 250th anniversary of the first Patriot victory of the Revolution approaches, a renowned local historian will share new insights into the battle that earned North Carolina its “First in Freedom” title.
The Pender County Library and the Pender County Historical Society and Museum will host Dr. Chris E. Fonvielle Jr. for a public talk on Tuesday, Feb. 24, at 6 p.m. The event will be held at the Main Library in Burgaw, 103 S. Cowan St.
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Fonvielle, a UNCW Professor Emeritus and a leading expert on Cape Fear history, will discuss the strategic importance of the 1776 battle. The talk coincides with the release of his latest book, “We Gave Them a Very Proper Reception: The Battle of Moores Creek Bridge and the Coming of the American Revolution in North Carolina.”
The library will host a pre-event reception from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Dallas Herring Library Annex across the street. The reception will feature historical displays and library materials related to the Revolutionary era.
The event is free and open to the public. Fonvielle will have copies of his works available for purchase and signing.
The lecture is part of the inaugural North Carolina First in Freedom Festival, a region-wide celebration running from Feb. 21 through Feb. 28. The festival spans eight counties and serves as the kickoff for the 250th anniversary of the United States.
The 1776 engagement at Moores Creek was a pivotal victory for Patriot forces, effectively ending British authority in the North Carolina colony and prompting the Halifax Resolves, the first official action for independence from Britain.
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