This geocache is now a third "reincarnation" of the cache "GC28X8A James City (New Bern 300)" in a new location. The environment of the original cache was greatly disturbed by Hurricane Irene IN 2011, so the cache was moved to a location where it would be less vulnerable to high water on the Neuse River. It has now been moved again due to repeated vandalism of the cache.
In 2010, the city of New Bern, the colonial capital of North Carolina, celebrated the 300th anniversary of its founding in 1710. This geocache is one of a series that highlight the 300-year history of New Bern. We promise a fun time for all who chose to seek out these caches, learn some of the history of our fair city, and discover why it is an interesting and pleasant city to visit or even to call home.
In 1863, soon after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued, the recruitment of black soldiers into the Union army began in New Bern. Secretary of War Edwin Stanton authorized Colonel Edward Wild to organize a brigade of black troops in North Carolina. That unit came to be known as the African Brigade, and its soldiers amply demonstrated their courage and fighting ability during two Confederates attempts to retake New Bern.
So many freed slaves were coming to New Bern that it was decided to appoint a superintendent of Negro affairs. The Reverend Horace James, a chaplain from Massachusetts was selected. In order to provide the many freedmen with places to live, James established a settlement at the confluence of the Neuse and Trent Rivers, about ½ mile south of New Bern. The site was named Trent River Camp and was about 30 acres in size. James was responsible for providing basic shelter, education, and medical care to the freed slaves. Because of the compassion exhibited by James in helping the Negro's better their lives, the settlement was renamed James City. The area is still referred to as James City and is still primarily an African-American neighborhood.
The history of this area is an integral part of the history of the city of New Bern. The Battle of New Bern was fought a short distance to the south. See GC1RYVB The Battle of New Bern.