Benson Museum of Local History
The new Benson Museum of Local History opened on May 28, 2010 after three years of fund raising, building renovations and exhibit design and installation. The Town of Benson and the new museum, and…
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Category: History & Heritage
The History of Benson Mule Days
The small town of Benson, North Carolina, with a population of around 4000, will swell to approximately 20,000 come September 22-25, 2021 when the 73rd Annual Benson Mule Days Celebration, sponsored…
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County Historical Markers to Be Unveiled
The Johnston County Heritage Center and Heritage Commission will unveil five historical markers in various Johnston County locations during June and July. Each unveiling ceremony will feature special…
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Recognition Event for Benson Native Jimmy Capps
If you’re a country music fan, you’ve probably heard Jimmy Capps on one of your favorite songs. He’s been described as a “king” among Nashville session guitarists and his list of credits includes…
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Clayton is Turning 150!
1969 was a year to remember in Clayton. The men grew beards. Families dressed in pioneer clothing. There were special tours, three grand balls, class reunions, old-fashioned bargain days with…
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'White Liquor and White Lies' - Moonshine History
'White Liquor and White Lies' details county's history of moonshining As long as there have been governments, there have been taxes. And since governments began trying to collect those taxes, people…
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Becky Opens Her "Home" Back Up to Visitors and Locals
UPDATE 7/2/25: Becky's Log Cabin Motel is open to travelers, but the restaurant has closed permanently. Becky’s Log Cabin Restaurant opened in 1977 in Smithfield, NC off Exit 95 on I-95. It was a…
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Stroll Around Historic Smithfield
Historic Downtown Smithfield now has a walking tour that highlights historical buildings, houses, and monuments. The Johnston County Visitors Bureau has designed and printed a brochure regarding the…
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Honoring the Legend and the Lady that was Ava Gardner
This morning I stood by the side of the road on the sloping lawns of Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery to bear witness with around 2 dozen other people. I stood in the cold sunshine and watched as the…
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A Soldier's Walk Home
In 1865, as the Civil War came to a close, Union and Confederate soldiers were faced with the reality of returning home. Many were simply released from service in the area where their unit had last…
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