The story of an insurrection that could've drastically altered North Carolina's history is set to be commemorated with a new historical marker. According to the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, the failed Gourd Patch Conspiracy, aiming to assassinate Gov. Richard Caswell in 1777, will be recognized with a N.C. Highway Historical Marker. The dedication ceremony is scheduled for January 15 at 1 p.m., at 14189 NC 42 in Tarboro.
The conspiracy, driven by religious fears, involved a group of Protestant farmers from several North Carolina counties who opposed the state's religious toleration policies and feared alliances with Catholic powers. Planning to kidnap or assassinate the governor, their plot was foiled when Caswell altered his travel plans. "By granting clemency, historians say Caswell's act of mercy radically strengthened the office and powers of the state’s chief executive," reports a statement obtained by the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR).
John Lewellen, the leader of the conspiracy, was convicted of treason for his efforts to undermine state authority. However, he later received the state’s first ever pardon from Caswell himself. The Gourd Patch Conspiracy, and the trial and pardon that followed, tested North Carolina's new legal system, newly established after the writing of the state Constitution in December 1776.
During this groundbreaking legal proceeding, James Iredell, the state's prosecutor and future Supreme Court Justice, utilized depositions from several co-conspirators and a list of witnesses. Lewellen, whose execution was originally scheduled for September 30, 1777, was convicted on September 20 but was eventually pardoned due to numerous petitions advocating for mercy. "Ultimately, based on the numerous petitions received, Caswell granted Lewellen a pardon," as quoted from the DNCR's public announcement.
For those interested in learning more about this historical event and others commemorated by state markers, further information can be found on the DNCR website. The Highway Historical Marker Program is a joint venture between the N.C. Departments of Natural and Cultural Resources and Transportation. DNCR's mission encompasses management and promotion of North Carolina's arts, culture, history, and natural areas.
