Stories
Stories, guides, and insights about life in Onslow County
The Hurricanes That Shaped Onslow County
From Hurricane Hazel in 1954 to Florence in 2018, tropical storms have repeatedly reshaped the landscape, economy, and resilience of Onslow County.
The Montford Point Marines: Breaking the Color Barrier at Camp Lejeune
In 1942, the first African American Marines in U.S. history reported to a segregated camp in Onslow County. Their courage changed the Marine Corps forever.
Topsail Island: From Secret Missile Testing to Sea Turtle Sanctuary
Topsail Island's modern history begins with a classified Cold War missile program called Operation Bumblebee — and leads to one of the East Coast's most beloved sea turtle rescue programs.
The New River: The Ancient Waterway That Shaped Onslow County
Despite its name, the New River is one of the oldest rivers in North America. For thousands of years, it has been the defining geographic feature of Onslow County.
The Civil War in Onslow County: Occupation, Salt Works, and Divided Loyalties
Onslow County's Civil War story is one of Union occupation, vital Confederate salt production, and a community torn between competing allegiances.
Sneads Ferry: How a River Crossing Became the Shrimp Capital of the World
For over two centuries, the families of Sneads Ferry have made their living from the waters of the New River. Here is the story of Onslow County's most enduring fishing village.
Camp Davis and the Holly Ridge Boom: When a Tiny Village Became a City Overnight
During WWII, the quiet crossroads of Holly Ridge exploded from 28 residents to over 110,000 as Camp Davis became one of the largest military training facilities in the country.
Camp Lejeune: How World War II Built the Marine Corps' East Coast Home
In 1941, the Marines needed a massive new training base on the East Coast. They chose 174 square miles of Onslow County farmland and forest — and transformed it forever.
Swansboro: The Oldest Town on Onslow's Shore
Founded in 1783 and originally called 'The Boro,' Swansboro has nearly 250 years of history as a port town, pirate haunt, and tight-knit fishing village.
The Founding of Onslow County: From Colonial Wilderness to Carolina Settlement
In 1734, Onslow County was carved from New Hanover County and named after a powerful British politician. Here is the story of how this corner of coastal Carolina came to be.