In December, 1996, First North Carolina celebrated its 10th birthday. We filled the North Carolina State University Club's ballroom with our festivities--good company, a delicious meal, and 17th century music performed on a harpsichord and replicas of Renaissance wind instruments by the Ad Hoc Players of New Bern. Jamestowne Society Governor Henry C. Mackall of Virginia, accompanied by his wife Margaret, brought greetings from the national Society. At that meeting, First North Carolina recognized its 100th member! Just as tiny Jamestowne was the beginning of a nation from 13 May 1607, so our original little group has grown into a tremendous source of very early American history in North Carolina.

Harpsichordist-soprano Lorraine Hale of New Bern performed a selection of
Renaissance music for the 10th anniversary gathering, including
Christmas carols and songs from Shakespeare’s theatre.

Company Council member Margaret Jordan-Ellis and
Company Attorney General Dr. Ann Robertson admire the burgundy
and gold icing decorating the First North Carolina Company’s 10th Birthday cake.

Gloria Reed Hendry, the Company’s Founding Governor (right),
is shown with Mary Ann Yarborough and Charles Yarborough, Jr.

Company Governor Franceine Rees and others seated at the
head table hear greetings from Henry C. Mackall, Jamestowne Society Governor.