From the first steam ship ever built, to a rich military past, Onslow has a heritage worth exploring
Onslow County, North Carolina, may be known for its white sandy beaches, pristine waters and charming towns, but dig deeper and discover the treasured past of this coastal gem. Located off of I-95, north of Wilmington and east of Raleigh and I-40, Onslow County encompasses the areas of Richlands, Jacksonville, Camp Lejeune, North Topsail Beach, Sneads Ferry and Swansboro. Set off on a journey to explore the natural beauty’s connection to secret guided missile testing, World War II, African American history and more.
World War II Connections: Bumblebee and memorial gardens
Onslow’s story began in 1940. World War II had been raging in Europe for more than a year and the United States needed an East Coast training facility. The Navy purchased an initial 110,000-acre tract of land in Onslow County, which eventually became Camp Lejeune. When planners added the remote pine forests and miles of beach, the value of Camp Lejeune as a home training base for Marines was unbeatable. Today, the marine camp is home to the 3rd battalion/8th Marine Regiment.
Just steps away from Onslow County is Topsail Island–the home of Operation Bumblebee, the U.S. Navy’s secret guided missile testing program that operated from 1946-1948. Exhibits at the Missiles and More Museum include model and original missiles from the project, a full-size Talos guided missile located outside at the front of the building and, in the Museum Kiosk, a film made in 1940 that chronicles the history of the program. Fun fact–the principle behind the controlled ramjet engine (the main concept for today’s supersonic flight) was tested and proven on Topsail Island as a result of Operation Bumblebee. www.MisslesAndMoreMuseum.org
Explore more military history at Lejeune Memorial Gardens. Here, find the newest addition to the Gardens, the Montford Point Marine Memorial. The Montford Point Marines were the first African American Marines to serve in the U.S. Marine Corps and bravely fought in WWII. The gardens are also home to the Onslow Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Stunning glass panels feature the names of all 58,000 soldiers and personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country while serving in Vietnam. Steps away, discover the Beirut Memorial. This solemn tribute honors the 273 Marines who gave the last full measure of devotion in Lebanon and Grenada on October 23, 1983, in a terrorist attack. Many of the fallen marines were stationed at Camp Lejeune and lived in Onslow County. The names of each service member are engraved in a granite wall, along with the words “They Came in Peace.” The gardens also hold a 9/11 memorial, which features a beam from one of the twin towers.OnlyInOnslow.com/History
History lives on
Built around 1850, the Pelletier House survives as Jacksonville’s oldest and only remaining antebellum home. This hipped roof Greek Revival dwelling initially occupied part of a turpentine distillery lot owned by the family. The home is open to group tours by request. www.OnslowCountyNC.gov
Onslow has a rich maritime history. Otway Burns, a privateer in the War of 1812, built the first steamboat in Onslow County in 1818. The “Prometheus” plied the waters of the Cape Fear River, between Wilmington and Smithville. Its most notable run may have been in 1819, when it ferried President James Monroe from Wilmington to Smithville as part of his Southern tour.
Swansboro is home to the oldest standing structure in Onslow County, the Olde Brick Store. Originally built in early 1838, the store was once used as a naval merchant front, a church and a post office. Today it is home to a boutique. Visitor tip: Make like a local and strike a pose! The Olde Brick Store is a favorite backdrop for snapping a pic. Photographers regularly use the building for photo shoots of all varieties. Read more here.
The historic train depot is part of the Old Mill historic district. The district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, as it is the largest concentration of least-altered historic buildings in the county seat. This gorgeously renovated area once was the railroad and lumber hub of Jacksonville, North Carolina. The train depot transported troops to Camp Lejeune during its early years and today provides a stunning backdrop for many of Jacksonville’s events, like the Onslow Oktoberfest.
African American Heritage Trail
Step back in time while walking Onslow County’s African American Heritage Trail. This fascinating path honors communities and various locations throughout the county that have a significant meaning. Visit African American grave sites, old school houses and churches. On the trail, you’ll find Ocean City. This area was the only oceanfront property that African American’s were able to purchase; lots sold for $500. Today it is home to the Ocean City Jazz Festival, which is going into its 10th year. www.OnlyInOnslow.com
Along the trail, gain insight into area attractions. For instance, Dr. William Sharpe donated Hammocks Beach State Park to the Black Teachers Association in 1950. Dr. Sharpe began visiting Onslow County in 1914. He became close friends with John Hurst, a local African-American hunting and fishing guide. Dr. Sharpe respected Hurst and gave him full responsibility as a property manager at the beach, not pleasing to some of the locals at the time. So, the doctor offered a $5,000 reward for the arrest of anyone who threatened the Hammocks or any of its employees. Hammocks Beach State Park was used for a segregated beach resort until 1961. Today, the park is continually growing and expanding its borders. Jones and Huggins Island are also part of the Hammocks Beach State Park system, boasting a rich Civil War history. www.NCParks.gov
Also on the trail, is the Onslow County Museum. The County Museum prides itself on preserving African-American stories through research and recordings as part of its ongoing mission. An audio-history project is underway to create voice recordings of the memories of local African-American citizens. The museum also features other fascinating aspects of the county’s history and has a special room for children’s activities relating to Onslow’s history. www.OnslowCountyNC.gov