Historic Sites

Located on the site of the former town of Waynesborough, the original seat of Wayne County from 1787 until 1847. The park consists of a village featuring nine historic buildings brought from across the county, including a school, lawyer’s office, and Quaker meeting house. In addition to the village they have over 150 acres along the Neuse and Little Rivers with over four miles of walking trails through open spaces, forest, and cypress swamp.

Phone | (919) 731-1653  

This battlefield is the site of Foster’s Raid on Goldsborough Bridge. On December 17, 1862, some 2,000 Confederate forces attempted to stop Union General John Foster’s 12,000 troops from destroying this vital railroad bridge. It was a pivotal turning point in the Civil War. This site now entails walking trails to take visitors to nine historical markers where specific events of the battle are detailed. Free guided tours are available by scheduling in advance via email or phone.

 (919) 736-4423 | rsauls@gmail.com

Living history demonstrations thrive on audience participation at the 1840’s boyhood home of North Carolina’s “Educational Governor.” The site includes a visitors’ center, a mid-nineteenth century homestead, and an 1893 one-room schoolhouse. Find guided tours, living history demonstrations, a visitor center with rotating exhibitions and a gift shop with local and historic memorabilia, a working farm, various farm animals and a large outdoor space perfect for picnics with family and leashed pets. 

Phone | (919) 242-5581

This living monument was erected to honor those veterans who have died and instill in future generations an understanding and respect for the sacrifices made on our behalf by so many. The site includes a Memorial Wall, The Pavilion, Jaycees’ Vietnam Memorial, SJAFB Sculpture, Wayne County Granite Map, Fountain, and Illuminated Flags.  Whether you are a garden club taking a botanical tour, or a church group, community organization, or family enjoying a picnic, we invite you to visit. 

Phone | (919) 739-7480

Designed in 1853 by Colonel Charles Nelson, this historically significant cemetery features an 1883 Confederate Monument underneath, which lies the mass grave of 800 Confederate soldiers. Among the historic graves, are the gravesites of Texas soldier Jarad K. White, former North Carolina Governor Curtis Brogden, and first Secretary of the Army General Kenneth Claiborne Royall. The Willowdale’s Jewish section hosts women’s rights activist and founder of the NC League of Women Voters, Gertrude Weil.

Phone | (800) 672-5041

Goldsboro-Wayne County is rich with history, from historic siites to historic markers that are pin pointed throughout the county. Over 18 markers can be found that reveal the historic battles, moments and people that have made their mark both statewide and nationally. To learn more information about the historic markers located around Goldsboro-Wayne County, click the button below to be redirected to our Historic Markers page, where you will learn about each markers historical significance and their location.