Kinston site preserves legacy of North Carolina’s first governor

A historic site in Kinston is preserving the legacy of Richard Caswell, North Carolina’s first governor and one of the city’s founders.

The Richard Caswell Memorial site marks where Caswell is buried alongside some of his children and highlights his role in shaping both the city and the state.

Matthew Young, the site’s museum manager, said Caswell was widely respected for his character.

“They viewed him as a man with integrity, as a man of honesty,” Young said.

Young said Caswell helped sponsor a bill in the state legislature to set aside land for what would become Kings Town, which later became Kinston after the “g” was dropped following the American Revolution.

Caswell moved to North Carolina from Maryland at age 16. He later started a family and held several military and elected positions.

“He helps guide the state through the Revolutionary War,” Young said.

Caswell went on to serve as North Carolina’s first governor under the new state constitution at age 47. He served four terms and later was reelected for three more terms beginning in 1784.

He died at age 60, leaving behind a legacy that continues to shape the state.

“He’s the father of Kinston and in many ways he is a founding father of North Carolina,” Young said.

The story is part of an ongoing series highlighting America’s 250th anniversary.