The woodpeckers eagerly peck away at the giant trees while squirrels scurry about as one strolls through the peacefulness and beauty of nature found in Currie, NC.  A trail passes by a grassy savannah heading towards Moores Creek.  The area is a unique eco-system containing carnivorous plants and perhaps an elusive alligator or two, but amid the wonder of nature, mounds of dirt appear that cast a shadow over what was a bloody struggle that occurred here almost 250 years ago. 

The date was February 27, 1776, just before sunrise, when men’s voices were heard yelling “King George and Broadswords.”  A moment later muskets barked with rage and a cannon named “Mother Covington boomed her disapproval.”  Loyalists to King George III had attacked across Moores Creek bridge “in a most furious manner,” but the battle ended quickly and became the first decisive victory in America’s war for independence.  Some say this battle was a part of America’s first civil war as it was fought between family and friends.  The combatants were North Carolinians fighting as patriots or loyalists.  The United States, however, was not yet a nation.  The question at hand on that cold winter morning was whether the British Colony of North Carolina would separate themselves from the crown or remain a part of the United Kingdom. 

Now, almost 250 years later there is a new calm before an approaching storm.  Something big is about to happen again that will shatter the serenity of Moores Creek, but this time the sounds will be of jubilation.  Multiple organizations are now in the planning phase of the biggest commemorative celebration to date, the 250^th anniversary of the battle that changed American history.  It allowed North Carolina to become the first colony to authorize its delegates to the Second Continental Congress to vote for independence.  Of the thirteen North American Colonies, North Carolina was the “first in freedom.” 

Again, this celebration is more than just a Moores Creek National Battlefield event, it will be a regional experience.  The North Carolina First in Freedom Festival will celebrate 250+ years of our Nation’s story and culture viewed through the lens of historical North Carolina events and the arts.  Specifically, the eight counties of Southeastern North Carolina (Bladen, Brunswick, Columbus, Duplin, New Hanover, Onslow, Pender, and Sampson) are planning a yearlong festival in 2026. 

Moores Creek National Battlefield will be hosting its celebration during the week of February 21-28, 2026, and the counties will have their own events throughout the year.  Multiple entities will present their stories, under told, and untold stories, including historic sites, cultural organizations, art institutions, and the many cities, towns, and communities throughout SE North Carolina.  It is a goal to have as many people involved as possible.  The vision for the festival is to have something for everyone.

More information about the North Carolina First in Freedom Festival is available at  https://www.ncfirstinfreedomfestival.com or NC First In Freedom Festival | Facebook.  Opportunities to get involved can also be found at these websites.  The QR code to the website is also available here.