Abstract:
Measured by a variety of standards of accomplishment and service to the State, Hugh McRae Morton of Wilmington and Linville has been named the North Carolinian of 1961. Best known for his leadership in the successful campaign to bring the USS NORTH CAROLINA home, Morton originated the idea of establishing the vessel as a floating museum. As authorized by the Assembly, Governor Sanford named a Battleship Commission, with Morton as head chairman, raising over $500,000 for the saving of the battleship.