Founded in 1710 by the Swiss, New Bern is located at the confluence of the Trent and Neuse Rivers in eastern North Carolina. Rich in history, it is the site of North Carolina's Colonial Capitol and its first State Capitol. In 1896, the Council of Burgess of Bern presented the armorial bearings and colors of Bern, Switzerland, to the City symbolizing the strong bond of friendship between two cities. New Bern owes its reputation as the Birthplace of Pepsi Cola to pharmacist, Caleb Bradham, who concocted the drink in 1898. Due to an aggressive revitalization effort led by Swiss Bear, a downtown development nonprofit, in partnership with the city and other nonprofit organizations, the heart of this beautiful city is now a major attraction. The downtown offers a number of museums, shops, galleries, restaurants, historic sites, waterfront hotels, bed and breakfast accommodations, marina's, parks, historic homes and churches, a new waterfront convention center and special events that showcase the city's many assets. Tryon Palace Historic Sites & Gardens, the first permanent seat of colonial government in North Carolina, offers visitors an opportunity to experience over 200 years of American history and acres of period inspired gardens. The city has, for many good reasons, won national acclaim for all it has to offer.