Join the New Bern Historical Society as they host author Dennis Harper as he presents "August Reign of Terror, Major James H. Craig's Punitive Raid of August 1781".  He'll be the guest at the updoming Lunch & Learn on August 27 at 11:30am at Carolina Colours Pavilion. Reservations at www.NewBernHistorical.org or 252-638-8558.

On January 28, 1781, Maj. James H. Craig, with his British forces, captured the town of Wilmington. His mission was to establish a supply base for Lt. Gen. Charles Cornwallis’s army as they continued their southern campaign into North Carolina. Major Craig’s most notable military expedition was his punitive raid that began on August 1, 1781, when he left Wilmington and headed to Duplin County. From there, he led his troops toward New Bern, skirmishing along the way with militia. In his program author Dennis Harper will discuss Craig's activities over 10 months of occupation of Wilmington, NC which includes 5 skirmishes in Jones County, the ransacking of New Bern in Craven County, the deaths of Capt. John Gordon and Dr. Alexander Gaston and much more.