Tar River Blounts and a Transitional Maritime Cultural Landscape, 1778-1802

Abstract

This thesis analyzes John Gray Blount and his associates' roles in the post Revolutionary War development of North Carolina's Tar-Pamlico maritime cultural landscape. After discussing the business interests and political connections of John Gray and his brothers, it will show the relationship between these men and the Tar-Pamlico's ports and waterways. Controlling and developing these areas was vital to the Blounts' business strategy. As a result, the Blounts became major shapers of the Tar-Pamlico maritime cultural landscape, contributing to internal improvements and the growth of Washington and other ports on the trade route. The thesis focuses on Washington as the center of John Gray's "burgeoning empire" and a transitional maritime landscape, connecting eastern North Carolina with broader maritime and Atlantic communities. Utilizing The John Gray Blount Papers, The State and Colonial Records of North Carolina, and other primary sources, this thesis applies Christer Westerdahl's concept of the maritime cultural landscape to a political and economic investigation. Subject matter includes shipping, lighthouses, naval stores, tobacco, fisheries, land speculation, slavery, the United States Constitution, and Federalism. Key Words: North Carolina, Merchants, Shipping, Maritime Cultural Landscape, Slavery