Lucy M., Smithfield, Johnston County
How has North Carolina shaped your own story?
"North Carolina has shaped my story in ways I never could have imagined. Growing up in Smithfield, the oldest town in the county, I’ve been surrounded by history my entire life. Living in Johnston County has given me incredible opportunities to connect with that history in meaningful ways. I’m especially grateful for the chance to work at beautiful historic sites like Bentonville Battlefield — the place that sparked my love for history. The dedicated staff there inspired me to stay on this path, and without their encouragement, I might have given it up altogether.
I’m also thankful to Mr. Johnson at the Heritage Center, who has entrusted me with hands-on experience as a museum curator. His guidance has deepened my connection to North Carolina’s rich heritage and allowed me to play a small part in preserving it. Because of these events, I am on my way to become the next NC historian, and I can't wait to make an impact in my community."
Tell us something about your town, city, or community.
"Smithfield is beautiful to me — like a hidden gem, a true “diamond in the rough.” From the old cemeteries to the small businesses along the main strip, there are so many places where you can get wonderfully lost. But what truly makes Smithfield special is the people. The kind and friendly faces you meet downtown give the town its heart, even though I feel it sometimes gets an unfair reputation.
The little antique shops, the historic buildings, the way the trees and foliage frame the streets — everything about it feels enchanting to me."
Tell us about someone who made or makes North Carolina what it is—in a positive way.
"I’m sure by now you can tell how much I love history, but I wasn’t always as passionate about it as I am today. My time with Bentonville Battlefield has truly changed my life, especially thanks to the past programs coordinator and the educator coordinator. Without their support and encouragement, I don’t think I would care about North Carolina or the Civil War as deeply as I do now.
I’m incredibly grateful to them for inspiring me to want to make a difference. They helped shape what North Carolina means to me — taking the spark of interest I had and turning it into a flame, encouraging me to keep learning and pushing myself to be more than I ever thought possible.
To me, North Carolina isn’t just a place — it’s home."