Abstract:
William Gaston (1788-1844) remains one of North Carolina's most distinguished historical figures to date. In addition to serving as a Senator, Representative, and judge of the North Carolina Supreme Court, Gaston was president of the Bank of New Bern, author of the state song, THE OLD NORTH STATE, a University of North Carolina trustee for 42 years, and was nearly appointed Secretary of War by John Adams. Gaston County and Gastonia were named in William Gaston's honor.