History of Beaufort County, North Carolina
Beaufort County, North Carolina, is a coastal region with a rich and diverse history that dates back to the early 17th century. Established in 1705, it is one of the oldest counties in the state. The county has played a significant role in both colonial and American history, from its involvement in early European settlements and the American Revolution to its importance during the Civil War. Today, Beaufort County is known for its picturesque waterways, historical landmarks, and the city of Washington, the county seat, which is one of the oldest cities in North Carolina. The county’s deep historical roots continue to be a point of pride for its residents.
Origins of Beaufort County
Native American Inhabitants
Before European settlers arrived, the area now known as Beaufort County was inhabited by the Pamlico people, a tribe of the Algonquin language family. The Pamlico people lived along the waterways of the region, utilizing the rivers, sounds, and coastal areas for fishing, hunting, and gathering. They built villages near the Pamlico Sound and along the numerous rivers in the county. The Pamlico people were also skilled in crafting canoes, nets, and tools for their daily life.
By the time the first English settlers arrived in the early 1600s, the Pamlico and other local tribes had developed complex social and economic structures. However, the arrival of European settlers, combined with disease, warfare, and displacement, led to the rapid decline of the Pamlico population by the end of the 17th century. Despite this, their influence on the area’s name and geography remained, particularly in the names of local rivers and creeks.
European Exploration and Settlement
The first European contact with the area occurred in the early 1600s. The English explorer John White, who led an expedition to Roanoke Island, charted parts of the North Carolina coastline, including the area that would become Beaufort County. English colonization efforts began in earnest during the 1660s, and by the early 1700s, the English had begun to establish permanent settlements along the rivers and coastal areas of North Carolina.
Beaufort County was officially established in 1705 as part of the larger Albemarle County. The county’s name was likely derived from the Beaufort family, who were prominent figures in English society at the time. Early settlers in Beaufort County were predominantly English and began to establish tobacco plantations, taking advantage of the fertile land along the Pamlico River and other waterways. These early agricultural settlers relied heavily on enslaved labor to cultivate their crops, marking the beginning of the region’s reliance on slave labor that would persist until the Civil War.
The Colonial Era and American Revolution
In the 18th century, Beaufort County became a bustling colonial center with a focus on trade and agriculture. The Pamlico and Pungo Rivers provided easy access to the Atlantic Ocean, and Beaufort County became an important hub for shipping and trade. The county’s early economy was based on tobacco, cotton, and rice, with a heavy reliance on the use of enslaved labor.
Beaufort County played a significant role in the American Revolution. Like much of North Carolina, the county was divided in its loyalties. Many residents were sympathetic to the Patriot cause, while others were loyal to the British crown. The conflict led to skirmishes and battles in the region, with key figures such as William Blount and Richard Caswell playing important roles in local Revolutionary War efforts. Beaufort County’s location along the coast also made it a target for British raids, and some battles were fought in the county, though it was not the site of any major conflicts.
The Civil War and Reconstruction
During the Civil War, Beaufort County was a focal point of the conflict in eastern North Carolina. The county’s proximity to the coast made it strategically important for both the Union and Confederate armies. Washington, the county seat, was occupied by Union forces early in the war, and it became a key Union supply base for the rest of the war. The Union Navy also used the region’s rivers to launch raids on Confederate-held areas. The area saw several skirmishes and small battles during the conflict, but it did not experience large-scale battles like some other parts of the state.
After the war, Beaufort County, like much of the South, faced a difficult period of Reconstruction. The agricultural economy, which had been reliant on enslaved labor, struggled to recover. Although there was some growth in the region, the effects of the war and the economic disruption it caused were deeply felt.
Key Historical Events in Beaufort County
The Role of Waterways in Economic Development
Beaufort County’s rivers and coastline have played an integral role in the region’s development. From the early colonial period through the 19th century, the Pamlico and Pungo Rivers were vital trade routes for goods like tobacco, cotton, and later, naval stores such as tar and pitch. Washington, the county seat, became a key port for these industries. By the mid-19th century, the construction of railroads in the region helped facilitate further economic development, connecting Beaufort County to other parts of North Carolina and beyond.
The economic boom provided by trade along these waterways was largely based on the work of enslaved African Americans, who provided labor in agriculture and the processing of goods. Despite the eventual end of slavery, the waterways remained central to the county’s economic activities for generations. In the 20th century, the county’s waterways also became known for commercial fishing and recreational boating.
The Great Fire of 1864
In 1864, a devastating fire destroyed much of downtown Washington, including several important buildings, homes, and businesses. The fire is believed to have started in a warehouse near the waterfront and quickly spread, fueled by the wood and tar construction of many of the buildings. The fire caused extensive damage to the city, and it took years for Washington to fully recover. In the aftermath of the fire, Washington rebuilt itself with a focus on fireproof construction, and the city’s layout was altered to allow for better fire control in the future.
The Rise of Tourism
By the early 20th century, Beaufort County’s natural beauty, including its waterways, forests, and proximity to the Outer Banks, began to attract tourists. The town of Washington, with its rich history and charming architecture, became a popular destination for visitors interested in history, fishing, and sailing. Today, tourism remains an important part of the county’s economy, with historical landmarks, recreational activities, and scenic views drawing visitors year-round.
Historical Sites in Beaufort County
Washington’s Historic District
Overview:
Washington’s Historic District is a treasure trove of colonial and antebellum architecture, offering a glimpse into the area’s rich history. The district is home to numerous buildings that date back to the 18th and 19th centuries, including stately homes, churches, and public buildings. The district is the site of Washington’s early growth as a trading hub and remains a focal point of the city’s cultural identity.
Location:
Washington Historic District, Washington, NC 27889
Ticket Price:
Free to visit (some guided tours available for a fee)
Parking Information:
Street parking is available throughout the district, with additional parking lots near popular attractions.
Bath Historic Site
Overview:
Bath, North Carolina, was the state’s first incorporated town, founded in 1705. The Bath Historic Site preserves several significant colonial-era buildings, including the Bonner House and the Palmer-Marsh House. The site provides a unique look at early colonial life in the region, including the importance of Bath as a key port and trading center. The site also includes a small museum that offers further insights into Bath’s colonial history.
Location:
Bath Historic Site, 207 N. Main St., Bath, NC 27808
Ticket Price:
$3 for adults, $1 for children
Parking Information:
Ample parking is available on-site at the Bath Historic Site.
Beaufort County Museum
Overview:
The Beaufort County Museum, located in Washington, is dedicated to preserving the history of the county and its people. The museum features exhibits on Native American history, colonial settlement, the Civil War, and the county’s agricultural and industrial development. It also includes displays on notable figures from Beaufort County’s past, including those involved in the Revolution and Civil War.
Location:
Beaufort County Museum, 400 E 2nd St, Washington, NC 27889
Ticket Price:
Free
Parking Information:
Parking is available at the museum, with additional street parking nearby.
Washington Waterfront
Overview:
The Washington Waterfront is a scenic area that overlooks the Pamlico River. The waterfront area is home to several parks, walking paths, and historic buildings, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Visitors can stroll along the river, enjoy local shops and restaurants, and explore the history of Washington’s riverfront trade and commerce.
Location:
Washington Waterfront, Washington, NC 27889
Ticket Price:
Free
Parking Information:
Parking is available at the waterfront, with several lots and street parking options nearby.
County Facts
Geography and Climate
Beaufort County is located in the coastal plain of eastern North Carolina, bordered by the Pamlico River and the Neuse River. The county is characterized by flat, low-lying terrain and a network of rivers, streams, and wetlands that drain into Pamlico Sound. The climate is humid subtropical, with hot, humid summers and mild winters. The county is prone to hurricanes and tropical storms, especially in the late summer and early fall months, although its relatively inland location offers some protection from the full force of coastal storms.
- Year Founded: 1705
- County Seat: Washington
- Population: Approximately 47,000 (as of 2023)
- Population Density: 81 people per square mile
- Largest Cities: Washington, Chocowinity, Pantego
- Major Highways: U.S. Highway 264, U.S. Highway 17
- Adjacent Counties: Pitt, Hyde, Beaufort (NC), Craven
