Past NCC programs

A Consequential Life

David Lowry Swain, Nineteenth Century North Carolina, and Their University

Learn about the life of David Lowry Swain, governor of North Carolina, president of the University of North Carolina, and arguably the state’s most significant leader of the 19th century. Presented virtually by Justice Willis P. Whichard on November 15, 2022. Justice Whichard was the Founding President of the Durham Library Foundation and served on its board from 2001-2010. He has been a member of the Durham County Library Board of Trustees since 2018.

Formal black-and-white portrait of David Lowry Swain

Crash Course in Durham History

A virtual program on the history of Durham and all things Bull City, originally recorded in July 2022.

A black-and-white photograph, with ragged edges at the top and bottom, of the founders of the Mechanics and Farmers Bank. They are seven Black men in turn-of-the-century suits and ties, all with mustaches. Four of them sit in the front and the other three stand in a row behind them. Glimpses of the room behind them show patterned wallpaper, a window with what looks like a column on the wall next to it, and flowers.

Durham at a Crossroads

The 1986 Mayoral Recall Battle

Learn about Durham’s first anti-discrimination proclamation to include LGBTQ rights, the organized backlash to recall the mayor in response, and the coalitional power-building that was successful in supporting him. Panelists: Mandy Carter, Joe Harvard, Steve Schewel, Mab Segrest and Leah Wise. Moderated by Eddie Davis. Presented on January 25, 2025.

A 1980s-styled rainbow bending like a ribbon across a black background.

Flow Through Time

A Historical Journey Along the Eno River

From Indigenous tribes, early explorers, and enslaved persons to modern conservation efforts and cultures, discover how the Eno River has shaped our communities for generations. Presented by Rachel Palmer of the Eno River Association on April 9, 2024.

A fairly close-up view of the Eno River flowing over and around brown rocks, with the water looking like a watercolor painting in greens and blues.

Why Local History Matters

Honoring Jean Bradley Anderson and her history of Durham County

A celebration in honor of historian Jean Bradley Anderson’s 100th birthday. This program presented a discussion on “Why Local History Matters” featuring moderator Judge Willis Whichard and panelists Bob Anthony, Vera Cecelski, Eddie Davis, Lois Deloatch, Ernest Dollar, John Schelp, and Jim Wise followed by a Q&A with Jean and the panelists. Presented on June 8, 2024.

Sepia image of early Durham, with a train in the foreground and tracks extending toward the distance, wood and brick buildings, and lots of water towers and smokestacks on the horizon.