First up was Alamance Battleground, site of the War of Regulation. By 1768 there were a number of minor clashes between the common folks and government over excessive taxes, dishonest sheriffs, and illegal fees that by the spring of 1768 an association of "Regulators" was formed. These men tried to solve these problems mainly by peaceful meetings and the issue of political pamphlets. However, by 1771 after their voices went unheard and peaceful negotiations unresolved, citizens took decisive action by means of violent protests and physical action which incented the Royal Governor, William Tryon. The matter came to a head on 16 May, 1771 when forces from both sides met at Alamance. The battle resulted 9 dead and 61 wounded on the loyal forces and untold number of the Regulators being killed and wounded, both historians say their numbers were much high. Some historians conclude that the grievances that led to this battle are the same that cause the American Revolution. A very site, small visitor center and film explains the causes and outcome of the historical site.
Second site was closer to Charlotte, The Reed Gold Mine. The Reed Gold Mine is the site of the first documented gold find in the United States when John Reed found gold here in 1799 by his son. The yellow rock he found weighed in over 17 pounds and for three years it was used as the family's door stop. During its peak years gold mining was second only to farming in the number of North Carolinians it employed. The estimated value of gold recovered reached over one million dollars a year. North Carolina led the nation in gold production until 1848, when it was eclipsed by the great rush to California. One can still pan for gold here for a small fee in the summer starting in April until October. You can explore the underground mines, smelting house and various other activities.
Once you have dug for your gold you can visit the local winery for some wine tasting located a mile from the mine.
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