Princeville North CarolinaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Princeville, North Carolina.
1. Princeville Museum and Welcome Center
HISTORIC FREEDOM HILL LEGACY
Princeville Museum and Welcome Center is housed in a beautifully restored schoolhouse that once served as Princeville Grade School. The immaculate building showcases astounding hardwood floors and features interpretive displays that bring the town's rich history to life. Visitors can learn about America's oldest town chartered by Blacks and its significant cultural heritage dating back to 1885.
2. Freedom Hill Historical Marker
FOUNDING SITE MONUMENT
Freedom Hill Historical Marker commemorates the original name of what would become Princeville, established by formerly enslaved people after the Civil War. The silver historical marker sits at the intersection of U.S. highways 258 and 64 in Edgecombe County, marking a significant piece of North Carolina's Black history. Visitors can reflect on the historical importance of the country's first incorporated African American town while viewing this landmark.
3. Calvary Episcopal Church
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS ARCHITECTURE
Calvary Episcopal Church is a historic church located near Princeville in neighboring Tarboro. The church features distinctive architectural elements and has cultural significance to the region. Visitors can explore both the religious and historical aspects of this notable landmark.
4. Edgecombe County Veterans Military Museum
LOCAL MILITARY HERITAGE
Edgecombe County Veterans Military Museum honors the service and sacrifice of local veterans through exhibits and memorabilia. The museum preserves the military history of Edgecombe County and the surrounding area, including Princeville. Visitors can view artifacts, photographs, and personal stories that connect them to the region's military contributions.
5. Tarboro Brewing Company
CRAFT BEER DESTINATION
Tarboro Brewing Company offers locally crafted beers in a welcoming atmosphere near Princeville. The brewery serves as both a production facility and a community gathering space. Visitors can sample a variety of craft brews while experiencing the local flavor of this eastern North Carolina establishment.
6. Princeville Cemetery
HISTORIC BURIAL GROUNDS
Princeville Cemetery stands as a sacred historical site that connects residents to their ancestors and the town's founding after the Civil War. The cemetery holds the remains of many early settlers who established America's first Black-chartered town. Visitors can explore this meaningful place that bonds community members with both their heritage and the land.
7. Tar River
NATURAL WATER FEATURE
The Tar River flows along the border of Princeville, forming a significant natural feature that has shaped the town's history and development. The river's south bank at a distinctive bend marks the location where Freedom Hill was established, which would later become Princeville. Visitors can appreciate both the natural beauty and historical significance of this waterway that has been central to the community's story.
8. Town Hall Historic Site
GOVERNMENT HERITAGE BUILDING
Princeville's Town Hall was originally built as a schoolhouse in the 1920s and stands as a testament to the town's resilience despite flood damage over the years. The building represents an important piece of municipal history in America's oldest Black-incorporated town. Visitors can observe this landmark that has served multiple community purposes throughout Princeville's development.
9. Princeville Mobile Museum
TRAVELING HISTORICAL EXHIBIT
The Princeville Mobile Museum is a striking 200-square-foot unit covered in patinaed corten steel with the date 1885 emblazoned on its side. Created by students from NC State University's School of Architecture, this innovative museum brings the town's story to life through portable exhibits. Visitors can experience this unique approach to preserving and sharing Princeville's history as America's oldest Black municipality.
10. Historic Princeville Main Street
ORIGINAL TOWN CENTER
Historic Princeville Main Street runs along U.S. Highway 64 and serves as the central thoroughfare of America's oldest town chartered by Blacks. The street features the welcome sign declaring Princeville as the "Oldest Town Chartered by Blacks in America" and identifies it as the "Home of Historic Freedom Hill." Visitors can walk this historic corridor to get a sense of the town's layout and development since its 1885 incorporation.
11. Blount-Bridgers House
HISTORIC HOME MUSEUM
The Blount-Bridgers House is a Federal-style home in nearby Tarboro that now serves as a museum showcasing local history and art. The historic residence features period furnishings and rotating exhibitions related to the region's cultural heritage. Visitors can tour this architectural gem to gain insight into the area's past and artistic traditions.
12. Tarboro Historic District
PRESERVED TOWN CENTER
Tarboro Historic District encompasses numerous well-preserved buildings that showcase the architectural styles and development of this region near Princeville. The district includes commercial structures, homes, and public spaces that reflect the area's evolution over time. Visitors can stroll through this charming area to experience the historical character of eastern North Carolina.
13. Tarboro Town Common
HISTORIC PUBLIC GREEN
Tarboro Town Common is one of the only remaining original town commons in America and provides a scenic green space near Princeville. The 15-acre park features mature trees, walking paths, and historic monuments that celebrate the region's heritage. Visitors can enjoy recreational activities while appreciating this well-preserved example of early American town planning.
14. Edgecombe County Cultural Arts Council
REGIONAL ART CENTER
The Edgecombe County Cultural Arts Council promotes and showcases artistic expression from the region surrounding Princeville. The center hosts exhibitions, performances, and educational programs that highlight local creative talents. Visitors can engage with the diverse cultural offerings that reflect the artistic heritage of eastern North Carolina.
15. Indian Lake Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA
Indian Lake Park offers natural beauty and recreational opportunities near the Princeville area. The park features a picturesque lake, wooded areas, and facilities for outdoor activities like fishing, picnicking, and walking. Visitors can enjoy this tranquil setting while experiencing the natural environment of Edgecombe County.