Richard Dobbs Spaight (1758-1802) born in New Bern, North Carolina. He was orphaned at the age of 8 years old, and was sent by his guardians to Ireland. He graduated from Scotland’s Glasgow University, then returned to North Carolina in 1778. At that time, the War for Independence was in full swing, and Spaight's superior attainments soon gained him a commission. He became an aide to the state militia commander and in 1780 took part in the Battle of Camden, SC. The year before, he had been elected to the lower house of the legislature. In 1781 Spaight left the military service to devote full time to his legislative duties. He represented New Bern and Craven County; in 1785 he became speaker. Between terms, he also served in the Continental