(NEW BERN, NC) February 5, 2026 - The 250th anniversary of our nation’s independence from Great Britain is fast approaching, and Tryon Palace, North Carolina’s first state capital in New Bern, is commemorating the semiquincentennial with an exceptional line-up of America 250 NC programs and exhibits.Tryon Palace is part of the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR).
In February, Tryon Palace offers two new NC Community Class Series lectures presented by Dr. Michael Hattem, an American historian with interests in early America, the American Revolution and author of "The Memory of ’76: The Revolution in American History and Past and Prologue: Politics and Memory in the American Revolution." Dr. Hattem received his PhD in history at Yale University and has taught at the New School and Know College. His work has been featured or mentioned in the New York Times, TIME Magazine, Smithsonian Magazine, Washington Post, and other publications.
On Feb.12, at 6 p.m., at the North Carolina History Center, Dr. Hattem will present "The American Origin Myth: Why We Remember the Revolution." In this talk, Dr. Hattem will discuss the unique role of the Revolution in American history and culture as our national “origin myth.” Americans have always had a uniquely emotional connection to the memory of the Revolution and have fought over the meaning and legacy of it for nearly 250 years. He will explore how and why Americans have constantly revised the meanings and ideals of the Revolution in ways that have always been shaped by their own times.
Two weeks later, on Feb. 26, Dr.Hattem will return to the North Carolina History Center at 6 p.m., to present "Becoming American Scripture: The Declaration of Independence after 1776." In this talk, Dr. Hattem will discuss how groups from across the political spectrum have redefined the Declaration of Independence and its ideals to make them more relevant and meaningful to their own times. He will show how the Declaration has become “American Scripture” as well as a model for independence seeking people around the world.
Both NC Community Class lectures take place at the North Carolina History Center, 529 S. Front Street, New Bern, at 6 p.m. Following each presentation is a light reception and a book signing of Dr. Hattem’s most recent book. Both lectures are ticketed, and you may purchase your tickets at tryonpalace.org. Dr. Hattem’s book will be available to purchase at the Tryon Palace Museum Store.
Tryon Palace would also like to invite you to our new exhibit, "Quilted Creations of Americana": by the Twin Rivers Quilters Guild. This fabulous display of quilts inspires the spirit of patriotism. The exhibit is in the Duffy Exhibition Gallery at the North Carolina History Center and is free to the public during normal operating hours. Look to our website, tryonpalace.org, for more America 250 NC programs and exhibits in the coming year. |
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