HARK! I HEAR THE CANONS ROAR

BLADEN COUNTY – Get ready, North Carolina! As we approach the monumental 250th anniversary of the United States, America 250 NC is gearing up to celebrate in style! This exciting initiative invites us to dive into the rich tapestry of history, culture, and community that makes our state—and our nation—so remarkable. And what better place to kick off this celebration than Harmony Hall in White Oak, NC, a historic site that echoes with stories from the past?

A Trip Down Memory Lane

On Sunday, April 13, a collaboration between Harmony Hall Plantation Village, Inc, Sons of the American Revolution, Daughters of the American Revolution, and artillery groups created an event for eager participants who stepped back in time to the founding days of America! As a pivotal participant in the Revolutionary War, North Carolina has been a key player in shaping the nation. As cannons roared and the spirit of revolution filled the air, we honored those who fought for our freedoms and remember the events that led us to where we are today.

Dressed in their period uniforms, members of the Le Marquis de Lafayette Chapter from the North Carolina Society Sons of the American Revolution demonstrated musket firing methods for the crowd. They then posed with visitors with the two lanterns symbolizing the 250th anniversary of Paul Revere’s ride that led to the first shot of the American Revolutionary War on April 19, 1775—or the ‘Shot Heard ‘Round the World’.

Chapter President David Dowless Jr. said, “It was an honor to assist with the celebration. Harmony Hall holds a special place in my heart since my 7th great grandparents, 1st Sgt James Cain and Mary Meeks, were wed by Col. James Richardson at his home there in or before 1780.”

The biggest ‘bang’ of the day were the artillery pieces brought by Brady’s Battery, the Edenton Bell Battery, Cedar Creek Light Artillery, and Bogdan Gieniewski of White Oak. Why Civil War cannons? Although the original owner of Harmony Hall was Colonel James A. Richardson of the Revolutionary War, the property has ties to other periods as the house survived three wars-Revolutionary, 1812 and Civil War, was home of Civil War Commander, and descendent Lt Col John Richardson. Artillery pieces included replica 1841 six-pounder, 1841 mountain howitzer, Civil War mortar, and an original breech loading model 1875 1.65 inch mountain gun made in 1897.

Get Involved!

One of the coolest parts of America 250 NC is how it encourages everyone to join in the fun! This isn’t just for history buffs—it’s for everyone! The initiative promotes civic engagement, inviting citizens to participate in discussions about democracy and governance. Whether you’re a student or a grandparent, there’s a place for you to get involved in activities and events that celebrate our shared history. Who knows? You might even discover your inner historian!

Looking Ahead

So, gear up, North Carolina! The ‘Shot Heard ‘Round the World’ is just the beginning of a celebration that follows the 250th birthday party for our nation. Several events are scheduled over the next few months. Mark your calendars for Sunday, May 4, 2025 for another collaboration between Harmony Hall, the Sons of the American Revolution and the Daughters of the American Revolution. A ceremony to mark the grave of Col. James A. Richardson will take place at the Purdie and Richardson Cemetery off Hwy 87 across from Purdie Church at 1:30. Following the ceremony, participants will travel across the river to Harmony Hall for cake in honor of the event. You are welcome to join the festivities. There will also be a ‘Red, White and Boom” event on Sunday, July 6 from noon until 4:00 featuring the cannons, and a ‘Colonial Faire’ on February 22, 2026 as a part of the NC First in Freedom Festival.

For more information about Harmony Hall and America 250 NC activities, please visit Harmony Hall Village – White Oak on Facebook. Volunteers are needed, and annual memberships are available to help keep history alive.

There are more pictures of the day on the Bladen Journal Facebook page – Posted: April 13.