Explore the timeline of Raleigh, the capital city of North Carolina, highlighting significant historical events from its founding in 1792 to its modern-day developments. Discover Raleigh's growth from a planned city to a bustling hub of culture, education, and technology.
The Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) was officially opened on July 28, 1963, serving the Research Triangle area of North Carolina. The airport was built to provide easier access to the region, facilitating economic growth and development. Over the years, RDU expanded and became a major airport in the Southeastern United States.
North Carolina was readmitted to the Union on July 4, 1868, after the end of the Civil War. During the Reconstruction era, North Carolina drafted a new state constitution and was required to ratify the 14th Amendment to the United States Constitution. This act formally reintegrated the state into the United States.
On April 13, 1865, Union forces under the command of Major General William T. Sherman occupied Raleigh, the capital of North Carolina. This occupation was part of the Carolinas Campaign near the end of the Civil War. Raleigh surrendered without a significant fight, and Sherman established headquarters in the city, helping bring an end to the war in the South.
The current North Carolina State Capitol building was completed on June 10, 1840. Following the fire in 1831, the state decided to construct a new capitol in Raleigh. Designed in a Greek Revival style, the building became an architectural landmark. It served as the main government building until 1963 and is now a historic museum.
On the night of June 21, 1831, the original North Carolina State Capitol building in Raleigh was destroyed by a devastating fire. The fire started when workmen attempted to fire-proof the building, ironically causing its destruction. This event led to the construction of the current State Capitol building, which was completed in 1840.
The city of Raleigh was established in 1789 to serve as the new capital of North Carolina, replacing New Bern. Raleigh was chosen for its central location and was unique in that it was specifically planned and built to be a state capital. Named after Sir Walter Raleigh, it was officially chartered in 1794 and has been the capital of North Carolina ever since.
That's every defining moment so far. New events are added only when the reporting warrants it.
Discover commonly asked questions regarding Raleigh. If there are any questions we may have overlooked, please let us know.
Why was Raleigh chosen as North Carolina's state capital?
When was the city of Raleigh founded?
How has Raleigh evolved as a part of the Research Triangle?
What significant events happened in Raleigh during the Civil War?