A historical marker was unveiled in Tarboro to recognize the Gourd Patch Conspiracy, a 1777 plot by farmers to assassinate Gov. Richard Caswell and overthrow the state government. The dedication ceremony took place at 17189 N.C. 42, near the site linked to the conspiracy.

“Richard Caswell was elected to the First and Second Continental Congress,” said Matthew Young, Site Manager; CSS Neuse Museum & Gov Richard Caswell Memorial. “He attended the first with his son, but didn't attend the second because of growing demands for his presence in the state and health concerns.  It's a long way to Philadelphia from Eastern North Carolina in 1775.”

The Gourd Patch Conspiracy, also called the Llewellyn Conspiracy, involved farmers from Martin, Tyrrell, Pitt, and Bertie counties. These farmers, motivated by concerns about religious changes in the new state government, secretly met in a pumpkin patch to organize the revolt. The group, led by John Lewelling of Martin County, aimed to protect Protestantism by removing Caswell and assuming control of the government.

The conspiracy stemmed from fears that the lack of an official state religion in the new North Carolina Constitution of 1776 could threaten their beliefs. Lewelling and his supporters believed that welcoming Catholics and other religious groups could endanger their community's spiritual well-being. These concerns prompted them to form a secret society that planned to kidnap or assassinate Caswell during his visit to Halifax.

The group’s plan was disrupted when authorities were alerted to the conspiracy. Despite this setback, Lewelling and about 30 others continued their efforts, ultimately attempting to seize a gunpowder magazine in Tarboro. The local militia intervened, disarming and arresting the conspirators.

Following his arrest, Lewelling was convicted of treason and sentenced to death. However, Caswell pardoned him, granting the first recorded pardon in North Carolina’s history. This decision demonstrated the growing authority of the governor’s office, which played a key role in maintaining order during the state’s early years.

The new historical marker commemorates the significance of the conspiracy as a pivotal moment that tested North Carolina's fledgling government. It also highlights the tensions of the Revolutionary era, when fears about religion and governance led to internal conflict and unrest. The dedication serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by the state during its formation.

“The Richard Caswell State Historic Site is located at 2612 West Vernon Ave and is open to the public.  The museum on the grounds is open Friday from 10am-2pm and Saturday from 10am-4pm,” said Young.