The Burning of elizbaeth City

In February 1862, Union troops captured Elizabeth City. At the time, the town had about 900 residents. When news arrived that the Union forces were moving from Roanoke Island to Elizabeth City, panic swept the town. Some residents determined that they should burn their town so that there would be nothing left for the Yankees when they arrived. Although fire was set to the city, only about two blocks actually burned to the ground. Elizabeth City surrendered, and Union troops spared the town.

Here is a link to the Learn NC website and the article.

 http://www.learnnc.org/lp/editions/nchist-civilwar/4604