New Bern Historical Society

About Us

Since 1923 the New Bern Historical Society has been dedicated to sharing the rich history of New Bern, North Carolina. The Historical Society offices are located in the Attmore-Oliver House, c. 1790, in New Bern’s downtown historic district. The Historical Society brings history to life through annual events including Ghostwalk and the Spring Historic Homes and Gardens Tour, as well as educational programs, lectures, historical writings, and our lunch & learn series.

In addition to offices there is a Civil War display and museum rooms reflecting life in the mid-19th century. Beautiful heritage gardens and additional historic buildings are located behind the house.

The New Bern Historical Society also owns and stewards 30+ acres of the New Bern Civil War Battlefield Park, site of the Battle of New Bern.. The unstaffed Battlefield Park is open year-round for self-guided tours; guided tours by trained volunteer battlefield guides can be arranged by calling the NBHS office at 252.638.8558. The story of the Battle of New Bern and the impact of the Civil War is illustrated on 36 informative interpretive panels arrayed throughout the battlefield. A state-of-the-art 24 foot diameter concrete map of the battle is located at the Visitors Plaza. A covered pavilion with picnic tables and restrooms is available for use from dawn to dusk. The Civil War Battlefield Park is located at 300 Battlefield Trail, near James City and the Taberna subdivision, just off of Highway 70 East. The Park is dog friendly and the Pavilion and Visitors Center are handicap accessible.