A major film production finds its principal location in southeastern North Carolina, setting the stage for Wilmington’s new role as “Hollywood East.”
The 1980s: The Challenger Seven
One of the worst accidents of the American space program shapes a generation: In 1986, the nation mourns the heroes aboard the space shuttle Challenger, including two astronauts with deep ties to North Carolina.
The 1980s: The Bird Man
In Wilmington, a biology professor makes it his mission to understand and protect the waterbirds that nest along the North Carolina coast — and inspires his students to do the same.
The 1980s: Dream Weavers
In 1980s North Carolina, immigrants from Asia and around the world find refuge from war, freedom from persecution, and fresh opportunities. In return, they weave new strands of art and culture into the tapestry of our state.
The 1980s: Pioneers of the Piedmont
When two scientists from Research Triangle Park win a Nobel Prize, their victory represents the fulfillment of the park’s original mission: to make world-class science part of North Carolina’s DNA.
The 1980s: Michael Jordan Changes the Game
Before he was the greatest of all time, Michael Jordan was an athletic kid from Wilmington. In 1981, he heads to Chapel Hill to hone the skills and competitive spirit that launch him to superstardom.
The 1980s: A Judge of Fine Character
From his childhood on a farm in Richmond County to his barrier-breaking achievements on the North Carolina Supreme Court, Henry Frye builds his life and career on a foundation of hard work and integrity.
The 1980s: The Decade of Local Heroes
After a period of radical change, North Carolinians enter the 1980s with renewed energy and optimism. The time is right for men and women of passion and talent to step up and make their mark on our state.
The 1970s: The Heart of Soul City
In Warren County, civil rights leader Floyd McKissick lays the foundation for a community built on equality — and although it fails to materialize, his core values live on.