DIGSTOCK I - Reflecting on Our Inaugural Event in Tarboro, North Carolina

Attended by 275 guests from over 35 States!

In March 2021, something truly special unfolded in the historic town of Tarboro, North Carolina. Our team proudly launched Digstock Mini, our inaugural event that brought together a vibrant community of hobbyists, history lovers, and explorers eager to celebrate their shared passion for discovery. The excitement in the air was unmistakable fueled by new connections, shared stories, and the anticipation of uncovering the past.

In this post, we’ll take a look back at Digstock Mini, revisiting the highlights, the lessons learned, and the powerful sense of camaraderie that defined the experience.

Setting the Scene: Tarboro, NC

Located in Edgecombe County, Tarboro served as the perfect backdrop for our first major gathering. Its plentiful farm fields and old plantations lining the highways added historical weight and visual character to the weekend. The town's heritage, dating back to the colonial era, enriched the atmosphere with a deep sense of place.

With spring just beginning to bloom, March’s mild temperatures —hovering around 60°F — provided an ideal setting for outdoor activities. This rural yet welcoming location embodied the spirit of our community: grounded in history, open to exploration, and full of potential.

Laying the Groundwork: Planning Digstock Mini

The journey to Digstock Mini began long before the first shovel hit the ground. From its earliest planning stages to the final participant departing the property, our team logged well over 1,000 hours preparing for this event. We left no stone unturned—from land access, permitting, and communications to signage, mapping, and contingency planning. Every detail was carefully considered to ensure the event delivered a smooth and memorable experience.

What added to the complexity was the fact that this event took place during the early height of the COVID-19 pandemic, a time when uncertainty and evolving public health guidelines made event planning particularly delicate. To say we were on edge about making it work would be an understatement. But our commitment to safety and excellence never wavered.

Despite the immense logistical and emotional challenges, we moved forward with caution, confidence, and a deep sense of purpose. We weren’t just organizing an event—we were building a foundation for something greater.

The Event Experience

When the gates opened, the excitement was undeniable. Attendees arrived early and in force, eager to dig, explore, and connect. The event featured a variety of activities that brought participants together in meaningful ways, including interactive demonstrations, informal meetups with YouTube personalities, on-site manufacturers, and a variety of food trucks that kept everyone energized throughout the day.

One of the standout features was a well-designed, mobile-compatible custom map, provided to all participants. This digital guide helped attendees navigate the fields, find key access points, and identify areas of interest. It was one of many small touches that reflected our commitment to quality and organization.

Cultivating Community

Perhaps the most impactful result of Digstock Mini was the sense of genuine community that emerged throughout the day. Participants who had never met before quickly found common ground—whether bonding over a rare find, exchanging stories from past hunts, or simply enjoying the shared thrill of exploration.

The connections forged at the event extended beyond social networking. Many attendees left with new friends, hunting partners, and even collaborators for future projects. The energy was contagious, and the conversations were rich with passion, curiosity, and mutual respect.

Adding to the magic were the incredible artifacts recovered—spanning from the Pre-Revolutionary War period to the Civil War, including Native American relics and items dating as recently as post-WWII. The quality and historical significance of what came out of the ground that day were second to none, elevating Digstock Mini beyond a simple gathering into a truly remarkable experience.

The Event Unfolds

The day of Digstock Mini finally arrived, filled with energy and excitement. As soon as the gates opened, the flood of attendees was thrilling. The day featured an array of activities, including workshops, engaging discussions, and hands-on demonstrations that promoted connections and knowledge sharing.

Highlights and Memories

As the sun set on Tarboro, attendees gathered to share their thoughts, memories, and excitement. The joy was infectious, and the camaraderie and treasures unearthed were among the most celebrated aspects of the event.

The closing moments—filled with laughter, gratitude, and storytelling—encapsulated the very spirit we set out to create. For many, Digstock Mini wasn’t just a hobby event; it was a rekindling of purpose, a reminder of why we dig, and a celebration of the past uncovered together.

What Comes Next

The success of Digstock Mini laid the foundation for our next event, held in Chazy, New York, which boasted more than double the participants and delivered yet another unforgettable experience. You can read more about that incredible event in our next blog post.

With each gathering, our mission remains the same: to build a community where curiosity, history, and adventure thrive side by side.

Final Reflections

Looking back on Digstock Mini, it's clear that the event transcended the activities on the schedule. It was about bringing people together—people with shared interests, deep respect for the past, and a hunger to uncover the unknown.

As we look to the future, we carry with us the spirit that began in Tarboro: one of dedication, discovery, and community. To everyone who joined us and to those yet to attend—we look forward to digging deeper, together.

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This event was featured in American Digger Volume 17, Issue 3.

Here’s to many more adventures ahead.