Situated directly across the Trent River from historic downtown New Bern, the community of James City stands as one of North Carolina’s most historical and culturally significant micro-markets. Founded during the turmoil of the American Civil War in 1863, James City originated as a Freedmen’s Colony—a self-governing refuge for thousands of formerly enslaved African Americans seeking freedom, safety, and self-determination behind Union army lines.
From Wartime Refuge to Self-Sustaining Community
When Union forces under Major General Ambrose Burnside captured New Bern in March 1862, enslaved people from across Eastern North Carolina flocked to the occupied city. To manage the growing population of refugees, Union officials established a settlement at Trent River Settlement, which was later named James City in honor of Horace James, a Union army chaplain appointed as Superintendent of Negro Affairs.
Despite severe resource constraints, the residents of James City constructed homes, built churches, established schools, and established a thriving local economy. By the late 1860s and 1870s, James City had developed into a vibrant, independent community with its own local governance, blacksmith shops, mercantile stores, and civic organizations.
Preserving History: Murals & Cultural Landmarks
Today, visitors exploring the James City Hub can experience this legacy through powerful public art and historical exhibits:
- Sarah Chaffee’s Mural (“The Life of Frederick Douglass”): Located in the cultural corridor, this monumental mural captures the triumph of civil rights, education, and equality, commemorating Frederick Douglass’s powerful connection to post-war Reconstruction.
- James White’s Mural (“The Civil Rights Movement in New Bern”): This vivid work synthesizes the historical timeline from the Freedmen’s Colony era through the 1960s civil rights marches in New Bern, emphasizing the community’s national significance in the ongoing fight for racial justice.
- North Carolina History Center Artifacts: Located just across the river at 529 South Front Street, the History Center houses rare 19th-century agricultural tools, domestic artifacts, and archival documents preserving the daily life of James City’s early settlers.
Heritage Tourism and Modern Community Vitality
Modern James City remains a proud, resilient neighborhood offering easy access to both downtown New Bern and the coastal waters of Craven County. Heritage tourism initiatives continue to elevate the historical legacy of the Freedmen’s Colony, offering guided tours and educational programs for residents and travelers alike. Explore more local historic sites via our New Bern Micro-Market Hubs Directory or read our complete Craven County Neighborhood Guide.
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