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Tom Dula's legend was outlined in the Kingston Trio's song "Hang Down Your Head, Tom Dooley". The tale of Tom Dula is one of love, betrayal, and murder. In 1866, Dula becomes romantically involved with a married woman named Ann Melton. At the same time he is also involved wiht Laura Foster. Dula contracts syphilis from Foster and avenged his stolen manhood by luring her to a secret place to murder her. Many people suspect that Dula actually did not murder her, but Melton actually did the stabing. Other believed Melton and Dula were co-conspirators. Against the backdrop of post Civil War chaos, the Dula drama was played out in the court of American opinion. Questions of immorality and sexual promiscuity were weighed along the still festering political hatreds of North and South. Tom Dula was eventually hanged at the Statesville Depot on May 1, 1868.

Attractions and Upcoming Events

Weddings and Family Reunions

Historic home built in 1812. Birthplace of North Carolina Lt. Governor Wilford D. Turner. Also home of NC Senator C. V. Henkel from 1942 to 1971. The owners since 1981

Statesville, NC Weddings

Historic Walton and Gage Store

1876. Two-story, red brick Italianate building incorporating Gothic features. Walton and Gage was a purveyor of fine women'

Statesville, NC Historic Buildings


Historic First National Bank Building

1890. Three-story brick building topped by corner mansard clock tower. The bank was organized in May 1887 and in the fall of 1889 construction began on the building, which was ready for occupancy in mid-March 1890 with George F. Sheperd as president. In 1929

Statesville, NC Historic Buildings

Fort Dobbs State Historic Site

Site of the only French & Indian War fort in NC. Archaeological sites, artifact displays, nature trails & living history events. Named for Royal Governor Arthur Dobbs who authorized the forts construction in 1760. Tuesday-Friday 10 am-4 pm, tours 10 am & 2 pm.

Statesville, NC Historic Sites

Things to do near Statesville, NC

Concord Mills

The #1 shopping entertainment destination of the Carolinas and most popular visitor attraction in North Carolina, Concord Mil...

Flag Tree Golf Course

A challenging yet enjoyable championship course. Golfers get the opportunity to use all of their clubs. The gently rolling la...

City Hall

1892. Former US Post Office, Courthouse, and Customs House sold to City for use as City Hall in 1941. The two-and-one-half-...

Bandidos Mexican Cafe

Mexican ...

Burke Manor Inn Bed & Breakfast

An upscale, elegant retreat decorated in period furniture. This Inn has 9 rooms in addition to several large meeting spaces ...