VIDEO: It is known by many as the worst fire in North Carolina history.
“This fire was life-changing, it was tragic and absolutely life-changing,” said Marissa Moore, Historic New Bern Program Director. “New Bern was unrecognizable 100 years ago today.”
On the morning of December 1, 1922, two fires started in New Bern at about the same time. One at an old lumber yard and the other in a chimney nearby.
Winds were high that day, causing both to combine and begin spreading across more than forty blocks of the city.
The fire destroyed many streets and roads, leaving more than 3,000 people without a place to live.
New Bern Fire Chief Robert Boyd’s parents were living when the fire happened, which is why he said he’ll never forget.
“The thing that really resonates with us is the displacement of people and people having to live in this tent city for months,” Boyd said.