Tar Heel State
The nickname “tar heel” dates back to North Carolina’s early history, when the state’s extensive pine trees made them a leading producer of supplies for the naval industry. Lenoir County’s deep-rooted tobacco, mercantile, and farming history have emerged
into a resurgence featuring farm-fresh, award-winning dining, a vibrant arts scene,
and music that touches the soul and lifts the spirit. Arts Neighborhoods, the African
American Music Trail, a Music Park, Civil War battlefields and museums, gunboats, and
our riverwalk create adventures at every turn. America’s game is in full swing when
the Down East Wood Ducks Minor League Baseball team is in town.
