Eight Must See Places In New Bern, NC Inspired By The Novel An Intrigue Of Witches

If you’re a regular reader of Due South Magazine, you may recall that I write mysteries. My latest novel, published by Severn House is An Intrigue Of Witches. Unlike my previous series, the Enchanted Bay Mysteries which is set on the North Carolina coast, this one is set in a fictional town called Robbinsville, located near the very real New Bern, North Carolina.

As a born and bred North Carolinian, I love to highlight the beauty of my home state in my novels. My story is a fantasy mystery grounded in real history, places and people. And there are eight – count ’em eight – locations in New Bern that are mentioned.

Eight Things To Do In New Bern, NC

I thought it would be fun to share information about these eight locations in New Bern just in case you’re the kind of reader that likes to visit the places you read about. Or, maybe you’re just visiting or live in New Bern and want some intriguing sites to visit.

I’m listing the locations alphabetically – so not in the order they are mentioned in An Intrigue Of Witches. If you’re wondering how to spend a day in New Bern, North Carolina… keep reading.

Bear Plaza

First up is Bear Plaza. I’m not giving spoilers, but I will say there is an exciting chase scene in historic downtown New Bern and a character has to run through this iconic landmark.

Bear Plaza, nestled in the heart of downtown New Bern, North Carolina, serves as a vibrant community gathering space rich in history and local charm. Named after Christopher de Graffenried’s “Bear Castle,” the plaza honors New Bern’s founder and commemorates its enduring legacy.

This picturesque plaza features a central fountain surrounded by benches and landscaped areas, offering residents and visitors alike a serene spot to relax and enjoy the ambiance of historic downtown. Throughout the year, Bear Plaza hosts a variety of events, from arts festivals to live music performances, making it a focal point for cultural and community activities.

Surrounded by historic buildings dating back to New Bern’s early settlement, Bear Plaza provides a scenic backdrop that invites exploration and appreciation of the city’s architectural heritage. It stands as a testament to New Bern’s commitment to preserving its rich history while embracing a vibrant present.

Whether you’re strolling through its pathways, attending a local event, or simply taking in the sights and sounds, Bear Plaza encapsulates the essence of New Bern—a blend of history, community spirit, and natural beauty that continues to enchant visitors from near and far.

Every time I visit New Bern, I stop at Bear Plaza to snap pics of the bears, eat ice cream or drink coffee and people watch. It’s the perfect place to chill on a sunny day and just absorb the charming vibes of the city.

Bear Plaza is located at 236 Middle St, New Bern, NC 28560.

Ten Interesting Facts About The Tryon Palace In New Bern, NC

John Wright Stanly House at Tryon Palace

An Intrigue Of Witches has been described as National Treasure meets Da Vinci code with witches… because my intrepid heroine, a historian from the Smithsonian is searching for an artifact hidden somewhere in fictional Robbinsville.

Her search takes her to the John Wright Stanly House in search of a piece of furniture commission by President James Madison which may hold a clue she needs. Lots of American history in this story!

The Stanly Wright House, dating back to the early 1780s, stands as a testament to the Georgian architecture that graces New Bern’s historic landscape. Originally built for John Wright Stanly, a prominent figure in the city’s history, the house is believed to have been designed by John Hawks, the architect behind Tryon Palace. Constructed from hand-hewn longleaf pine, it remains one of the finest examples of Georgian style in the South, showcasing a gracious center-hall plan and a striking two-story stairwell that captivated 18th-century visitors.

Despite changes in ownership and relocations, the Stanly Wright House has retained its architectural splendor, meticulously preserved inside and out by dedicated builders and restorers. Its elegant design reflects the wealth and influence of Stanly, a successful businessman and patriot who supported the American cause during the Revolutionary War through his merchant ventures. Tragically, Stanly and his wife, Ann Cogdell, succumbed to yellow fever in 1789, leaving behind nine children.

The house gained further renown when, during President Washington’s Southern Tour in 1791, locals hastily prepared it for his visit, earning his praise for its “exceeding good lodgings.” John Stanly, Jr., their eldest son, later took ownership and lived there until the mid-1820s, navigating a controversial political career that included a fateful duel with Richard Dobbs Spaight. The house’s history continued to unfold through the Civil War, serving as General Ambrose E. Burnside’s headquarters and later as a convent and public library.

Moved to its current location in 1966 and opened to the public in 1972 under the stewardship of the Tryon Palace Commission, the Stanly House now showcases furnishings spanning the Georgian and Federal periods, offering visitors a glimpse into its storied past and architectural grandeur.

Check their website for the most up-to-date information as the site was temporarily closed when I published this article. But even closed you can walk or drive by the residence or visit the historical site’s gardens.

The John Wright Stanly House is located at 307 George St, New Bern, NC.

The Kitchen Garden at Tryon Palace

In one of my favorite scenes, my main character Sidney Taylor is in search of a clue that leads her to the kitchen garden of Tryon Palace. She has to use her skills as a champion escape room enthusiast to figure out exactly where something pretty important is hidden.

The Kitchen Garden at Tryon Palace, situated behind the Kitchen Office, is a captivating blend of history and horticulture. This garden not only provides a diverse array of produce nearly year-round but also holds a unique historical reference dating back to 1775. According to historical documents, an intriguing discovery was made under a bed of cabbage—a barrel of gunpowder, underscoring its significance during the colonial era.

Today, the garden showcases a variety of heirloom vegetables, herbs, and fruits, reflecting its commitment to preserving historical authenticity. While primarily featuring heirloom varieties, modern counterparts are occasionally used, especially for cover crops aimed at enhancing soil quality and managing weeds.

A distinctive feature of the garden is its espalier fruit trees trained along wall trellises and fences. These include pear, apple, fig, plum, and peach trees, pruned in the espalier style to encourage horizontal growth. This technique not only facilitates easier harvesting but also maximizes sunlight exposure and promotes controlled growth, showcasing both practicality and aesthetic appeal in this historic setting.

The Kitchen Garden is located behind the Kitchen Office in the Tryon Palace Complex located at 529 S Front St, New Bern, NC.

The Kitchen Office at Tryon Palace

Sidney’s search also takes her to the Kitchen Office at Tryon Palace. Which, if you know your Tryon Palace history… you know the original building no longer stands. But that doesn’t mean clues can’t still be found.

The Kitchen Office at Tryon Palace holds a distinct place in the historical fabric of New Bern, North Carolina. Originally part of the grand Tryon Palace complex, this building served as the functional heart of the governor’s residence during the colonial era. It was here that essential administrative tasks were managed, and where the culinary preparations for the governor and his guests took place.

Built in the Georgian architectural style that characterized the period, the Kitchen Office features practical yet elegant design elements. Its proximity to the main residence ensured seamless operations for the governor’s household staff, who prepared meals using the finest local ingredients and culinary techniques of the time.

Today, visitors to Tryon Palace can explore the restored Kitchen Office to gain insight into colonial governance and daily life. Exhibits and guided tours offer a glimpse into the workings of the kitchen and administrative functions, highlighting its pivotal role in sustaining the governor’s household and serving as a hub of activity within the historic palace complex.

The Kitchen Office is located in the Tryon Palace Complex located at 529 S Front St, New Bern, NC.

The North Carolinian’s Ultimate Travel Guide To The Outlander Series

Martin Marietta Park

Martin Marietta Park is not mentioned by name in An Intrigue Of Witches, but I do mention quarrying and mines. When I was writing this story, I needed there to historically have been mines in the area. A quick internet search and I discovered the New Bern Quarry, a location for mining limestone.

I love it when I can find something real to base my story on, and I found it. I won’t tell you how it’s mentioned but it’s in there. And those quarries have since been turned into a park for all to enjoy.

Martin Marietta Park in New Bern, North Carolina, occupies the former site of Clark Quarry, previously owned by the Martin Marietta Corporation. Spanning over 800 acres, the park is the largest in New Bern’s park system and boasts a rich industrial heritage. In the late 1990s, the City of New Bern acquired the land, primarily consisting of water bodies, and in 2017, Martin Marietta Corporation generously donated an additional 55 acres to expand the park.

The Martin Marietta Park is located at 700 S Glenburnie Rd, New Bern, NC.

New Bern Historical Society

My historian, Sidney does a lot of research in her hunt for the artifact. Her research leads her to travel to the very real New Bern Historical Society in New Bern where she finds important documents to help her in her pursuit.

The New Bern Historical Society stands as a cornerstone of preservation and education in New Bern, North Carolina, dedicated to safeguarding and sharing the city’s rich cultural heritage. Founded to celebrate and chronicle New Bern’s diverse history, the society actively engages the community through educational programs, exhibits, and preservation efforts. Located in the heart of historic downtown, the society’s headquarters and museum offer a compelling journey through centuries of local history, featuring artifacts, documents, and interactive displays that bring the past to life.

Visitors to the New Bern Historical Society can explore exhibits that highlight pivotal moments, influential figures, and everyday life in New Bern from its colonial origins to the present day. The society also organizes events, lectures, and tours that delve into various aspects of the city’s history, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation among residents and visitors alike. Through its steadfast commitment to historical stewardship and public outreach, the New Bern Historical Society continues to serve as a vital resource for preserving and celebrating the unique heritage of this historic Southern city.

I love that the New Bern Historical Society is not just a building that archives documents, they are an active part of the community hosting events like ghost walks, scavenger hunts, living history days and much more. In fact, you can check out their list of events if you need more history in your life.

The New Bern Historical Society is located at 511 Broad St, New Bern, NC.

Robert Hay House at Tryon Palace

The Robert Hay House is not mentioned in An Intrigue Of Witches, but Robert Hay is. He is an important part of the mystery based in the past that compels Sidney to find the artifact. He was a very accomplished Scot, which is perfect because there is Scottish history and mythology featured in An Intrigue Of Witches.

The Robert Hay House, constructed in 1804, stands as a modest yet historically significant structure within New Bern’s architectural landscape. Originally built by carpenter Benjamin Good, the house exemplifies the Federalist style prevalent during its era, featuring a “side hall” staircase and large, fireplace-heated rooms across its floors. Scottish immigrant Robert Hay purchased the unfinished property for $1,000 in 1816, situating his carriage shop nearby at the former Stable Office of the Capitol Palace complex. Over the following decade, Hay expanded the house with a rear addition, including distinctive double piazzas that offered comfortable outdoor seating, shielding from the summer sun with louvered shutters while welcoming cooling river breezes.

Today, meticulously restored to its 1830-1850 appearance, the Robert Hay House serves as a testament to early 19th-century craftsmanship and family life in New Bern. A comprehensive restoration project in the mid-1990s, informed by archaeological and historical research, preserved original plasterwork and woodwork, while furnishings were meticulously recreated based on period inventories and local accounts. This restoration effort ensures that visitors can experience the Hay family’s lifestyle and the architectural charm of the Federalist period firsthand.

The Robert Hay House is located at Eden St, New Bern, NC.

Tryon Palace

Last but not least, Tryon Palace is an important location in An Intrigue Of Witches. Many of the sites on this list are located on the grounds of Tryon Palace. And honestly, how could I set part of my story in New Bern and not use Tryon’s palace?

Tryon Palace, erected in the late 1760s, stands as a pivotal piece of North Carolina’s colonial history and architectural splendor. Originally commissioned as the residence of Royal Governor William Tryon, this Georgian-style palace was meticulously restored in the mid-20th century to preserve its authentic grandeur. Today, visitors can explore its lavish interiors adorned with period furnishings and artwork, gaining insights into colonial life and governance.

Surrounded by meticulously maintained gardens and historical outbuildings like the Kitchen Office and Stable Office, Tryon Palace offers a rich tapestry of educational programs, seasonal events, and immersive experiences throughout the year. It remains a beacon of North Carolina’s cultural heritage, inviting visitors to step back in time and appreciate the elegance and significance of its colonial past.

The Tryon Palace Complex located at 529 S Front St, New Bern, NC.

Union Point Park

So, Union Point Park is not actually in An Intrigue Of Witches, but the riverfront park in Robbinsville is 100% modeled on Union Park Point. When I visit New Bern, I always spend time walking along the water, enjoying the views and allowing the water, trees and plants to relax and refresh me.

In An Intrigue Of Witches, Sidney spends a romantic evening with someone one special on a park bench eating ice cream and looking out at the water.

Union Point in New Bern, North Carolina, spans six acres at the confluence of the Neuse and Trent Rivers, offering a picturesque waterfront setting that epitomizes relaxation. This serene park features expansive grassy areas adorned with wooden benches, picnic tables, and grills, inviting visitors to unwind amidst scenic views. Playground facilities cater to younger guests, while convenient amenities like restrooms ensure comfort for all.

A highlight of Union Point is its newly constructed gazebo, characterized by a charming white picket fence and a forest green rooftop. This gazebo has quickly become a favored venue for community events and musical performances, including local 5K and 10K award ceremonies, seasonal concerts by brass bands, and other talented musicians. Set against a backdrop of expansive waterways and New Bern’s downtown skyline, Union Point offers a delightful experience for attendees of these free, accessible musical events, making it a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike.

Union Park Point is located at 210 E Front St, New Bern, NC.

Ready to read An Intrigue Of Witches? Order at your local bookshop, purchase autographed copies online or in-person at Winchester Book Gallery (Winchester, VA), Fountain Books (Richmond, VA) or buy on Amazon or Barnes & Noble.