Located in the northeastern part of North Carolina, the small town of Ville has witnessed its fair share of historical events throughout the years. From battles of the Civil War to groundbreaking inventions, here are seven notable historical events that have taken place near Ville, NC.

1. Battle of Roanoke Island (1862): Just a few miles east of Ville, Roanoke Island was the site of a significant battle during the Civil War. Union forces led by General Ambrose Burnside captured the island from the Confederacy, marking one of the first major victories for the Union in the war. This battle helped secure control of the region for the Union and proved crucial in cutting off Confederate supply lines.

2. Wright Brothers' First Flight (1903): Roughly 50 miles south of Ville lies Kill Devil Hills, where two brothers, Orville and Wilbur Wright, achieved their dream of manned flight. On December 17, 1903, they successfully flew their aircraft, the Wright Flyer, for 12 seconds, covering a distance of 120 feet. This groundbreaking achievement forever changed the world of aviation.

3. Birthplace of Pepsi-Cola (1898): Roughly 70 miles west of Ville, in New Bern, Caleb Bradham, a local pharmacist, invented a refreshing carbonated drink known as Brad's Drink. Brad's Drink would later be renamed Pepsi-Cola, becoming one of the most iconic soft drink brands in the world. The original pharmacy where it was concocted still stands in New Bern and serves as a museum dedicated to the history of Pepsi.

4. Battle of Bentonville (1865): Approximately 80 miles northwest of Ville, the Battle of Bentonville was fought during the final months of the Civil War. Confederate forces under General Joseph E. Johnston launched a desperate attack against Union General William T. Sherman's army. Despite their efforts, the Confederates were ultimately forced to retreat, leading to the eventual surrender of the Confederate forces in North Carolina.

5. Birthplace of Andy Griffith (1926): Born in Mount Airy, North Carolina, which is roughly 90 miles northwest of Ville, Andy Griffith went on to become a beloved actor, comedian, and singer. Griffith is best known for his role as Sheriff Andy Taylor in the classic television show "The Andy Griffith Show." The town of Mount Airy has embraced its connection to Griffith, and fans can visit various landmarks and museums dedicated to his life and career.

6. Edenton Tea Party (1774): Located approximately 80 miles northeast of Ville, the historic town of Edenton is known for its role in the American Revolution. In a show of resistance against British taxation, a group of local women organized a boycott of British tea and other goods. This event, known as the Edenton Tea Party, is recognized as one of the earliest political actions by women in colonial America, highlighting their determination to fight for independence.

7. USS North Carolina Commissioning (1941): Near the coast, roughly 120 miles southeast of Ville, lies Wilmington, where the USS North Carolina battleship was commissioned in 1941. The ship played a significant role in the Pacific during World War II, earning 15 battle stars and becoming one of the most decorated battleships of the war. Today, it is a museum ship, providing visitors with a glimpse into the past and honoring the sacrifice of those who served.

These seven historical events near Ville, NC, have left an indelible mark on both local and national history. From battles and inventions to cultural milestones, they serve as a testament to the rich historical heritage of this charming town in northeastern North Carolina.