NC H2077

Honors the founders and early residents of New Bern for their contributions to North Carolina and the nation on the occasion of the city's 300th anniversary in 2010.

Recognizes New Bern as the state's second oldest city, founded in 1710 by Swiss and German settlers at the confluence of the Neuse and Trent Rivers.

Acknowledges notable historical figures from New Bern including Richard Dobbs Spaight (signer of the U.S. Constitution), William Gaston (State Supreme Court Justice and author of the state song), and George Henry White (last African-American to serve in Congress before the Voting Rights Act of 1965).

Notes New Bern's historical significance as the first permanent colonial capital of North Carolina, site of the first Provincial Congress in 1774, and birthplace of Pepsi (invented as "Brad's Drink" in 1898).

Extends good wishes to New Bern residents and encourages all citizens of the state to join in demonstrating respect for and pride in the city's history and heritage.