Waterways, including the Neuse and Trent Rivers, have shaped the history, industry, and culture of Eastern North Carolina's Craven County. With pre-colonial beginnings as home to Native Americans of different nations, this county became a center for
royal government and a genteel destination after Baron Christof de Graffenreid risked his fortune to create the permanent settlement of New Bern. After redefining itself time and time again, Craven County
has now emerged as a modern community without losing a drop of its original ambience. The charm of Craven County has been enjoyed not only by North Carolinians, but also by the English during the Revolutionary War, the Union during the Civil War, merchants visiting for trade, and well-to-do hunters who came for the wildlife. Within these pages, readers will discover the landscape that has for centuries surrounded locals and visitors alike with unequaled beauty. This volume uncovers the county as it once was, a contrast between the sophistication of the city once dubbed the "Athens of North Carolina" and the pastoral quality of life in the rural farmlands and hunting clubs. Longtime residents will no doubt recognize scenes in these vintage photographs that show landmarks and views of the waterfront from times past, while those new to the area will delight in seeing their home as it once was.