Even folks who were born and raised here in Elizabeth City are still learning new things about some of our town's history, places to go, and things to do. With new shops and cool spots popping up all the time, there's so much to explore and discover in our quaint little town. Here are some fun facts and cool "did you know" things about EC to test your knowledge of our hometown!
Did you know?
During WWII, U.S. Naval Air Station, now known as the Coast Guard Air Station Elizabeth City, played a critical role in a top-secret mission called Project Zebra. From 1941-1945, our local military members helped train Soviet, British, and Canadian crews to fly a modified version of the PBN-1 Catalina amphibious aircraft to help defeat Germany. The details of this covert mission weren't declassified until 2013!
Did you know?
Tucked away in Historic Downtown Elizabeth City is a revitalized alleyway offering dining, drinks, socializing and even events like trivia and live music. Just off of Colonial Ave is the beautiful Pailin's Alley. While the new found beauty and liveliness of the alley just began in 2016 with the opening of Hoppin' Johnz, the history of the alley dates back to the 1800s with one of Elizabeth City's most successful business tycoons, William Pailin.
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Did you know?
Nestled in Elizabeth City's historic district is a distinctive red brick building that was once occupied as the first Black-Owned bank in all of northeastern North Carolina. ECSU professor and local historian Dr. Melissa Stuckey took a deep dive into the history of the 1920 Albemarle Bank and shared her knowledge with us!
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Did you know?
In March 2021, the first official Coast Guard Half Marathon happened (virtually) in Elizabeth City! Each branch of the military has an official road race except for the Coast Guard...until now! We're honored to bring this annual event to Elizabeth City and honor our Coast Guard men, women and their families as an official Coast Guard City. The 2022 event is hybrid with virtual and in-person opportunities to run this legacy race right here in Elizabeth City, NC in March 2022 with the addition of a full marathon! Click below to learn more about the Coast Guard Marathon.
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D
id you know?
Before the Wright Brothers made their famous first flight in Kitty Hawk, they spent several days right here in Elizabeth City! Locals welcomed the brothers to the town as they waited for a boat to Kitty Hawk, recruited their "flight crew", gathered supplies, and bought materials for their legendary take off. There are 11 historic markers in and around EC that played roles in the story of the Wright Brothers; take a self-guided tour ov the Elizabeth City Aviation Trail and learn more about Elizabeth City's part in their story.
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Did you know?
Elizabeth City offers more than just traditional lodging options. From houseboats to entire lofts and homes, you can invite the whole family to town or take your family on a staycation to see EC from a different point of view.
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Did you know?
The notorious "Welcome to Elizabeth City" Coca-Cola mural or 'ghost sign' on downtown Elizabeth City's McMullan Building was originally painted in the '70s when you could buy a 10-ounce drink for just 35 cents. It's painted on the side of what used to be the City Cut Rate Building...does that bring back any memories?
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What little-known fact do you know about our town? Share it with us!
Local Coast Guard wife and community member Crystal Etheridge shares an inside scoop on what she and her family love about Elizabeth City, North Carolina.... READ MORE
In short, I love this place, I love serving the citizens, and I absolutely love enjoying everything downtown Elizabeth City provides, so stop by and enjoy a craft beer with me downtown!!!! ... READ MORE
When she's not in the Mayor's office, Mayor Bettie Parker enjoys local dining, strolling the many local parks, and most of all, the people and community of Elizabeth City.... READ MORE
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