09/01/2026
We think Historic Newbern is a very welcoming place. The planned village was specifically designed to greet travelers along the Great Road and offer them accommodations and services on their westward journey. But it is heartwarming to see symbols of that open door welcome...well inside an open door. Recently one of the privately owned early structures in Newbern went up for sale, one of our dedicated volunteers previously owned the house but relocated to be closer to her family. The new owners decided to take up the carpet and when the original heart pine floors were revealed they also exposed three painted pineapple motifs. Two are located inside the main entrance door and one is at the threshold into the main room. This home was built in 1825 and still of log construction. Known as the Shelley House and later Dr. Jordan's home, it has been a part of Newbern's history almost from the beginning. Pineapples are frequently found throughout Early American architecture showing up on carved mantels and fireplace surrounds as well as on door knockers and ceiling reliefs, but it was a pleasant though not uncommon motif to see being incorporated right here in our little historic village as well. Big Thank you and welcome to our new neighbors for sharing the pineapple discovery, they were super excited to share their find with us and we appreciate that.
