While the southernmost county on the North Carolina coast shares features similar to other coastal counties, its historic destinations, charming towns and recent rapid growth help make it unique.
coastal county history series
Civil rights struggle, population boom: New Hanover history
In our county history series: Home to Wilmington and popular beaches, New Hanover County has been the setting for racial turmoil, economic expansion and changing culture over the centuries.
Onslow County’s rich coastal history often overlooked
In our county history series: Onslow is home to a sprawling Marine Corps base, but its two rivers were the center of growth for 200 years before.
Carteret County’s history, amenities have long lured
In our county history series: Colonial beginnings, Civil War battles, maritime industry, fishing, tourism and coastal living among Carteret’s numerous draws.
Pamlico County a quiet destination on NC coast
In our county history series: A hidden gem offering both natural beauty and small-town charm.
Craven County’s history an important aspect of its future
Home to North Carolina’s original capital, Craven County’s strategic location and history continue to shape its growth.
Hyde County still features wild, undisturbed natural areas
In our continuing history series about North Carolina’s 20 coastal counties, historian Eric Medlin frames Hyde County’s natural resources as its greatest asset.
Beaufort County’s history, natural areas add to its lure
A centerpiece of the Inner Banks, Beaufort County features a state park and several smaller parks to complement its colonial heritage.
Dare County has played key roles in NC history, tourism
In our continuing series on coastal county history, the county named for the first English child born in the New World still draws people from around the world.
Tyrrell County history shaped by its coastal environment
Tyrrell County has long been defined by its natural environment, and outdoor exploration and wildlife continue to be among this coastal county’s biggest draws.
From farms to niche tourism, Bertie ‘Seedbed of the Colony’
Bertie County, an agricultural hub on the inner banks of northeastern North Carolina, turns 300 this year.
Quiet Washington County rich in coastal NC history
Washington County’s story is one of isolation, success, and an eventual renewal on the banks of the Roanoke River.
Small, rural Hertford County has an identity all its own
Hertford County is a vibrant, successful county in the otherwise economically challenged region of northeastern North Carolina, writes historian Eric Medlin.
Rural character has defined Gates County for centuries
Its rural character, plantation history and natural beauty make it similar to other northeastern counties such as Chowan, Pasquotank and Camden but has famous residents, plantation homes and a state park.
Camden’s history, economy rooted in Great Dismal Swamp
Though Camden is the quietest, most rural county in northeastern North Carolina — mostly known for the Great Dismal Swamp — it is still a fascinating part of the state’s oldest region, writes historian Eric Medlin.
Upheaval, rebirth cement Pasquotank’s role in NC history
It was Colonial North Carolina’s original political center and the site of an early rebellion — Pasquotank County, its people, history, educational institutions and economy are part of what makes this the regional anchor.
