Cities and Towns in Tyrrell County, North Carolina
Founded in 1729, Tyrrell County is one of 100 counties in the state of North Carolina. Historically, Tyrrell County was formed from Chowan County, Currituck County, and Pasquotank County. The city of Columbia is the county seat. With FIPS code of 177, Tyrrell County has a population of 3,254 and area of 600 square miles (1,554 km²).
List of all cities in Tyrrell County, NC alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Columbia, NC | 27925 | 252 |
Major Cities and Towns in Tyrrell County, North Carolina
Columbia
Overview
- Area: Approximately 0.8 square miles (2.1 km²)
- Population: 3,017 (2024 estimate)
- ZIP Code: 27925
- Latitude and Longitude: 35.9182° N, 76.2533° W
Location and History
Columbia, the county seat of Tyrrell County, is situated on the southern shore of the Albemarle Sound in northeastern North Carolina. Established in 1793 as Elizabeth Town, it was renamed Columbia in 1801. The town’s location along the Scuppernong River made it a strategic point for trade and transportation in the 19th century. Columbia’s economy historically centered around agriculture, particularly the cultivation of corn and soybeans, as well as fishing and timber industries. The town’s rich history is reflected in its well-preserved architecture and its role as a hub for the surrounding rural communities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Columbia is served by the Tyrrell County Schools district, with Columbia Early College High School providing education for local students. Notable landmarks include the Tyrrell County Courthouse, an architectural gem completed in 1903, and the Columbia Historic District, which features a variety of buildings showcasing late 19th and early 20th-century architecture. The nearby Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge offers opportunities for bird watching, hiking, and experiencing the unique pocosin wetlands ecosystem. Additionally, the annual Scuppernong River Festival celebrates the town’s heritage with music, crafts, and local cuisine, fostering a strong sense of community among residents and visitors.
Kilkenny
Overview
- Area: Approximately 1.5 square miles (3.9 km²)
- Population: 200 (2024 estimate)
- ZIP Code: 27925
- Latitude and Longitude: 35.8800° N, 76.4000° W
Location and History
Kilkenny is a small, unincorporated community located in the western part of Tyrrell County. The area is characterized by its rural landscape, with vast expanses of wetlands and forests. Historically, Kilkenny’s economy was based on agriculture, particularly the cultivation of crops suited to the region’s swampy terrain. The community’s name reflects the heritage of early settlers, many of whom were of Irish descent. Over time, Kilkenny has remained a close-knit community, preserving its rural charm and natural beauty.
Major Schools and Landmarks
As an unincorporated area, Kilkenny does not have its own schools; residents typically attend schools in nearby Columbia within the Tyrrell County Schools district. The community is in proximity to the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge, which offers opportunities for wildlife observation, particularly black bears and red wolves, as well as recreational activities like kayaking and fishing. The natural landscapes surrounding Kilkenny provide a serene environment for residents and visitors seeking to experience North Carolina’s coastal plain ecosystems.
Gum Neck
Overview
- Area: Approximately 2.0 square miles (5.2 km²)
- Population: 150 (2024 estimate)
- ZIP Code: 27925
- Latitude and Longitude: 35.7500° N, 76.2000° W
Location and History
Gum Neck is an unincorporated community located in the southeastern part of Tyrrell County. The area derives its name from the abundance of gum trees found in the region’s swamps and wetlands. Historically, Gum Neck was a hub for timber extraction, with logging being a primary industry in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The community’s remote location and challenging terrain have contributed to its small population and limited development, preserving its natural landscapes and traditional way of life.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Residents of Gum Neck attend schools in Columbia, as the community does not have its own educational institutions. The area is adjacent to the Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as bird watching, hiking, and fishing. The refuge is particularly known for hosting migratory waterfowl and other wildlife species. Gum Neck’s annual community gatherings, including local fairs and festivals, celebrate its heritage and foster a strong sense of togetherness among residents.
Fort Landing
Overview
- Area: Approximately 1.0 square mile (2.6 km²)
- Population: 100 (2024 estimate)
- ZIP Code: 27925
- Latitude and Longitude: 35.9000° N, 76.3500° W
Location and History
Fort Landing is a small, unincorporated community located along the Scuppernong River in Tyrrell County. The area is named after a historic fort that once stood near the riverbank, serving as a defensive structure during colonial times. Fort Landing’s history is closely tied to the river, which provided a means of transportation and trade for early settlers. The community’s economy has traditionally been based on fishing and agriculture, with residents relying on the fertile lands and abundant waterways for their livelihoods.
Major Schools and Landmarks
As with other unincorporated areas in Tyrrell County, Fort Landing’s residents attend schools in nearby Columbia. The community is near the Scuppernong River Wildlife Management Area, offering opportunities for hunting, fishing, and wildlife observation. The river itself is a popular spot for boating and kayaking, allowing visitors to explore the natural beauty of the region. Fort Landing’s annual events, such as community picnics and fishing tournaments, bring residents together and celebrate the area’s rich history and connection to the river.
Frying Pan Landing
Overview
- Area: Approximately 0.5 square miles (1.3 km²)
- Population: 50 (2024 estimate)
- ZIP Code: 27925
- Latitude and Longitude: 35.8000° N, 76.3000° W
Location and History
Frying Pan Landing is a small, unincorporated community located in the central part of Tyrrell County. The unique name is believed to originate from a local legend involving a frying pan left by early travelers or settlers. The area is characterized by its dense forests and proximity to the Alligator River, which has played a significant role in the community’s history. Timber and fishing industries have been central to Frying Pan Landing’s economy, with residents relying on the natural resources provided by the surrounding environment.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Residents of Frying Pan Landing attend schools in Columbia, as the community lacks its own educational facilities. The nearby Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge offers a habitat for a diverse array of wildlife, including black bears, red wolves, and numerous bird species. The refuge provides opportunities for hiking, wildlife photography, and environmental education. Frying Pan Landing’s community events, such as local storytelling sessions and nature walks, highlight the area’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, fostering a strong sense of community among its residents.
