JAMES CITY - A Proud History

The James City Historical Society preserves the proud past of the people of eastern North Carolina, whose ancestors formed the first free community of formerly enslaved people in the state. The journey from bondage to freedom required many acts of courage by people who were determined to be equal citizens in the land of their birth. African-Americans met challenges from physical enslavement to violence and racial segregation at every step of the way, but they also built families and enduring communities.

 

We have created this page to share with the public the stories of pride and love experienced by lifelong James City residents.