ENJOY YOUR STAY at "THE ZIG"

The Ziegler Hotel is a true New Bern icon with roots that stretch back to the 1920s. Originally built as a two-story private residence, the home was owned by Mr. and Mrs. Ziegler, longtime members of the New Bern community.

During World War II, the Zieglers opened their home to young Marines stationed at nearby Cherry Point, renting out rooms to support the war effort and meet the growing need for housing.

In the early 1950s, Mr. Ziegler underwent back surgery that resulted in permanent paralysis. Prior to this, he operated a watch repair shop from the garage located behind the home. To help supplement their income, Mrs. Ziegler converted the garage into two motel rooms. Their immediate success inspired her to expand further—eventually adding two cottages and nine additional motel rooms.

At the time, motel accommodations in Craven County were scarce, long before national hotel chains arrived in the area. Mrs. Ziegler had little trouble keeping every room occupied.

Mr. Ziegler passed away in the 1960s, but Mrs. Ziegler continued to live in the home and personally operate the motel until her passing at the remarkable age of 101.

By the mid-1950s, the Ziegler Hotel had become New Bern’s premier place to stay. Anyone over 40 who grew up in New Bern likely remembers the large neon “Zig” sign at the corner of Highway 17 and Eighth Street, guiding travelers to the motel.

During the 1940s, ’50s, and ’60s, Highway 17 was the principal north–south route along the East Coast. The glowing neon sign caught the eyes of countless travelers passing through Eastern North Carolina.

After Mrs. Ziegler passed away in the 1990s, the property changed hands and fell into disrepair. Over time, the once-charming hotel lost its luster and faded from prominence. The Tyson Family purchased it in 2009 and they take pride in the transformation that honors the tradition of this New Bern Icon!