presentations &
special programs
The New Bern Historical Society brings local history to life with a variety of interesting educational programs. Whether you're a newcomer or a New Bern native, there's so much to learn about our fascinating local heritage! Our special programs feature guest speakers, genealogy presentations, historical book signings, and more.
The annual Dr. Richard K. Lore Lecture features regionally and nationally-known speakers of historic note, followed by a light reception. Not just for history buffs!
The annual Civil War Program brings engaging guest speakers to share all the things they didn't teach you in history class. All proceeds directly benefit the preservation of Battlefield Park.
Women Pilots of WWII at Camp Davis
Presented by John Moseley
Sunday, June 7th, 2026 at Orringer Auditorium, Craven Community College
$10 for members and nonmembers
Presentation begins at 2pm
During World War II, American women answered the call to serve their country in many ways. One unique military program was the Women's Airforce Service Pilots, or WASP, who were the first women trained to fly the US Army's frontline arsenal. In July 1943, the women pilots started arriving in North Carolina with the vast majority of them being attached to Camp Davis Army Airfield in Holy Ridge, NC. At Camp Davis, the WASP arrived with a challenging mission to pull targets for the Anti-Aircraft Artillery training occurring in the skies above Eastern North Carolina. These pilots were handpicked due the dangerous nature of the job and because they had what it took to deal with problems they would face on land and in the air. During their time at Camp Davis, two WASP would make the ultimate sacrifice. The program was kept quiet, and the WASP were not recognized for their military service until nearly three decades after the war ended. Learn about these amazing women and their special tie to North Carolina.
Manager at NC Maritime Museum Southport, John Moseley attended The Citadel in Charleston, SC where he graduated with a Degree in History. He was named North Carolina’s James Madison Foundation Constitution Fellow in 2003 and spent time in Washington, DC researching and studying the history of the United States Constitution. He earned a Master’s Degree in 2005 from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and moved to Wilmington nearly 15 years ago. Since 2012, he has been the historian for “Tasting History,” a walking history tour which includes sampling local restaurants of Carolina Beach. Currently, he continues researching Fort Fisher’s Medal of Honor recipients, Fort Fisher’s activities during World War II, and the Women Airforce Service Pilots.