History Comes Alive With Dr. Chris Fonvielle

Wilmington Under Enemy Occupation 

For the final Wilmington Water Tours’ commemoration of the United State’s 250^th anniversary, join Dr. Chris E. Fonvielle Jr., Professor Emeritus in the Dept. of History at UNC Wilmington, for a discussion about the “City By The Sea” under British occupation in 1781. Learn why British forces determined to capture the seaport and North Carolina’s leading revolutionaries, including William Hooper, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, who lived here. Major James Henry Craig would wage a reign of terror against American Patriots in southeastern North Carolina with Wilmington as his base of operations. Did you know that the famous General Charles Earl Cornwallis made Wilmington his headquarters and planned his ill-fated invasion that led to his defeat at Yorktown, Virginia in October that fateful year?

Whether you’re a lifelong history buff or just curious about the forces that shaped this region, this is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to learn while enjoying a relaxing, scenic cruise. Topics rotate monthly, so every trip offers a new perspective on Wilmington’s place in American history.  The three cruises will be March 22, April 26, and May 24.

Our boat, The Wilmington, has comfortable seating for up to 49 passengers, refreshments for all ages at the bar and a restroom on board. This is a 2 hour cruise $45 adults, $25 children. Boarding is 15 minutes prior to departure.