Welcome to Horton Grove Nature Preserve, a place where natural beauty and profound history intertwine. Located in Bahama, North Carolina, this preserve offers more than just scenic trails; it’s a doorway into the past. As you explore the lush surroundings, imagine this land over 150 years ago, part of one of the largest plantations in the South, the Bennehan-Cameron plantation, known as Stagville. This plantation spanned 30,000 acres and housed approximately 900 enslaved people, making it a significant site in the history of slavery in America.
Walking through Horton Grove today, you’re likely to encounter remnants of this history, such as the original slave quarters and historic barns that hint at the lives once lived here. In these woods, the echoes of the past are ever-present, offering a sobering reflection on the resilience of those who walked this land before us.
The preserve itself is a testament to the ongoing efforts of the Triangle Land Conservancy to protect natural habitats while preserving history. With over eight miles of trails, Horton Grove invites you to learn about its past while enjoying the tranquility of its forests and meadows. The That Makes Sense Interpretative Trail is especially engaging for younger visitors, providing a sensory experience through the natural world.
Horton Grove Nature Preserve is not only a natural sanctuary but also a living museum of American history, offering a unique perspective on the intertwined narratives of nature and human endeavor.
