The 1849 Quarters
At The 1849 Quarters, every brick, every beam, and every corner whisper tales of a rich and storied past. Originally erected in the 1790s by the British-born merchant John Harvey, our e-Boutique hotel stands as a living testament to the spirit of its era. As you explore our timeline, you’ll unravel the captivating story of The 1849 Quarters’s evolution – from its early days as an opulent residence and business to the restoration that transformed it into the epitome of luxury and charm. Join us on a journey through time, where the essence of history is etched into every facet of our establishment.
​1797-1897
John Harvey Residence and Business
The Flemish bond brick building was constructed on the once-waterfront lot between 1797 and 1800 for its namesake, ship merchant John Harvey. The east side served as his family residence while the west side held his business office and warehouse. The first floor was bisected by an arched tunnel that originally served as a passageway for carriages.
1862-1865
Civil War
Following the Battle of New Bern, the city fell and remained occupied by the Union Army until the end of the Civil War. The 1849 Quarters family left town during this period and their home served as barracks and as the military provost headquarters. John Harvey’s daughter Mary returned to the home in 1866.
1904
New Bern Military Academy
At the turn of the Twentieth Century, the home was used as cadet barracks for the New Bern Military Academy while their campus was being expanded along National Avenue.
1939-1945
Cherry Point Apartments
In the early 1940s, the property was converted to apartments during the World War II housing shortage, where Marines enlisted at the newly-established MCAS Cherry Point could reside.
1966-1971
Craven Community College
The General Assembly created the Craven Industrial Education Center as an extension of Lenoir Community College in 1965. The 1849 Quarters Mansion provided the original space for classrooms and a learning lab as the organization’s first headquarters. After becoming the independent Craven County Technical Institute in 1968, it grew to become what is today the thriving institution of Craven Community College, which now offers over 145 degrees, diplomas, and certificates. The College moved to its new campus in 1971.
1971
National Register of Historic Places
The property was added to the National Register of Historic Places on November 12, 1971. The application was made by then-owner, Gertrude Henderson. This maneuver prevented the demolition of the building, as the entire waterfront area was being acquired and cleared by the Redevelopment Commission of the City of New Bern at that time. Henderson agreed to sell the property to local government, but they were unable to tear it down.
1979
Clark Family Renovation
Robert and Cora Clark bought the property at auction from the Redevelopment Commission and Craven County, as it could no longer be made a part of the redevelopment plans. The Clarks completed a major renovation and restoration by 1981 and maintained the third floor as their private residence.
2002-2016
Harvey Mansion
Gene Simon acquired the property in 2002. He ran the “Harvey Mansion” as a very successful restaurant and bar from 2002 until 2016. The basement bar was the most popular drinking establishment in downtown New Bern during Gene’s ownership.
2018
Hurricane Florence
In September of 2018, Hurricane Florence hit New Bern, North Carolina and flooded the basement of the property. The first floor was not reached by the flood waters.
2024
Heron Hospitality
In December of 2020, a group organized by Heron Hospitality purchased the property. For more than three years, Heron Hospitality worked closely with the City of New Bern’s Historic Preservation Commission to thoughtfully transform The 1849 Quarters into an e-Boutique hotel.
