New Bern (pop. 31,291) is North Carolina’s second oldest town, after Bath. It lies at the junction of the Trent and Neuse rivers, about 35 miles (56 kilometers) from the Atlantic Ocean. In 1766, New Bern became the capital of the North Carolina colony and a major port. It remained the capital until 1778. The coming of the railroads in the mid-1800’s contributed to the decline of its importance as a port.
New Bern was founded in 1710 by Baron Christoph von Graffenried of Switzerland and by Germans who were seeking religious freedom. A colonial capitol and governor’s residence called Tryon Palace was completed in 1770. The building was restored in the 1950’s and is now a tourist attraction. New Bern, named for Bern, Switzerland, is the seat of Craven County. It has a council-manager government.
