Durham, NC

About Durham

• • Ronnie James Dio, the iconic heavy metal vocalist, was born in Portsmouth, NH.
• • Texas toast, the beloved buttery bread, was first served at the Pig Stand restaurant.
• • Portsmouth's naval shipyard, established in 1800, boosted its early economy.
• • The city once hosted the Treaty of Portsmouth, ending the Russo-Japanese War.
• • The Great Fire of 1813 destroyed much of Portsmouth's downtown area.
• • Named after the English port, Portsmouth was settled in 1623, becoming a city in 1849.
• • With about 22,000 residents, Portsmouth is dwarfed by its southern neighbor, Boston.
• • Sitting only 10 feet above sea level, Portsmouth faces increasing flood risks.
• • Healthcare, tourism, and manufacturing drive Portsmouth's modern economy.
• • Portsmouth's atmosphere is a blend of maritime history and modern vibrancy.
• • The Boston Bruins, though not based in Portsmouth, are a regional favorite.
• • UNH Wildcats hockey, a nearby college team, boasts a passionate local following.
• • Triassic-aged sedimentary rocks like sandstone and shale underlie much of Durham.
• • The Eno River State Park protects a significant stretch of the scenic Eno River.
• • The Eno River flows through Durham, providing drinking water and recreational opportunities.
• • Gray foxes are commonly observed in Durham's wooded areas and residential neighborhoods.
• • Durham is home to diverse Piedmont forests featuring oak, hickory, and pine trees.
• • The Occaneechi Band of the Saponi Nation inhabited the Durham area prior to European colonization.
• • In April 1865, Confederate General Johnston surrendered to Union General Sherman at Bennett Place near Durham.
• • The Durham Hotel, built in 2015, is a notable example of mid-century modern architecture.
• • The Durham Freeway (NC 147) connects downtown Durham to I-40 and Research Triangle Park.

Artists From Durham

Songs About Durham

Nearby Places