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Bethlehem, Alexander County, North Carolina

Bethlehem is a census-designated place (CDP) in Alexander County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 4,214 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Hickory–Lenoir–Morganton Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 23.0 km2, of which 19.7 km2 is land and 3.3 km2, or 14.15%, is water. The CDP occupies a large area in the southwestern corner of Alexander County, along the north shore of Lake Hickory on the Catawba River.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 4,491 people, 1,900 households, and 1,392 families residing in the CDP.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 3,713 people, 1,454 households, and 1,142 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 488.9 PD/sqmi. There were 1,549 housing units at an average density of 204.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 96.88% White, 0.51% African American, 0.03% Native American, 1.40% Asian, 0.70% from other races, and 0.48% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.78% of the population.

There were 1,454 households, out of which 31.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 69.1% were married couples living together, 6.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 21.4% were non-families. 18.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 5.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.55 and the average family size was 2.88.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 23.4% under the age of 18, 6.5% from 18 to 24, 30.4% from 25 to 44, 29.4% from 45 to 64, and 10.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 39 years. For every 100 females, there were 96.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 97.2 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $52,443, and the median income for a family was $56,776. Males had a median income of $34,023 versus $26,944 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $28,537. About 4.0% of families and 5.0% of the population were below the poverty line, including 5.5% of those under age 18 and 5.0% of those age 65 or over.


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Taylorsville, North Carolina

Taylorsville is a town in Alexander County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 2,098 at the 2010 census. It is the county seat of Alexander County.

Taylorsville is part of the Hickory–Lenoir–Morganton Metropolitan Statistical Area.

History
The town of Taylorsville was formed in 1847 along with Alexander County. A commission of William Dula of Caldwell County, Dr. James Calloway of Wilkes County, Milton Campbell of Iredell County, and Robert Allen, Reuben Watts and Robert L. Steel of Alexander County were named to select a site as near the center of the county as possible for the seat of justice. The town was named Taylorsville in honor of General Zachary Taylor who at that time was in Mexico engaged in the Mexican–American War.

The land for the town was donated by J.M. Bogle who gave 22 acre, William Matheson who gave 13 acre and James James who gave 11$3/4$ acres for a total of 46$3/4$ acres. Most of the land was woodland, and the road from Statesville to Morganton passed to the south of town.

A commission of Alexander C. McIntosh, R.L. Steel, Sion Harrington, J.H. Newland, and George Swain, treasurer, were appointed to lay out the town of Taylorsville and sell lots to raise money for the building of a courthouse and jail. An auction of lots was held August 11, 1847, and 47 lots were sold. The second sale was November 30, 1847, and 10 lots were sold. At a third auction on March 8, 1848, five lots were sold. The total amounted to $6,674.75.

The town of Taylorsville was incorporated in 1851. The first mayor was John Watts and was appointed by the commissioners. The boundaries of the incorporated town were square, with each side 160 poles or one-half mile long.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 6.1 km2, of which 0.01 sqkm, or 0.17%, is water.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 2,320 people, 927 households, and 573 families residing in the town.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,798 people, 746 households, and 446 families residing in the town. The population density was 897.6 PD/sqmi. There were 819 housing units at an average density of 408.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 82.71% White, 11.40% African American, 0.11% Native American, 1.06% Asian, 3.50% from other races, and 1.22% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 6.17% of the population.

There were 746 households, out of which 25.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 39.9% were married couples living together, 14.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 40.1% were non-families. 35.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 17.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.20 and the average family size was 2.83.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 20.6% under the age of 18, 7.9% from 18 to 24, 25.8% from 25 to 44, 20.3% from 45 to 64, and 25.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 41 years. For every 100 females, there were 84.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 77.5 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $24,875, and the median income for a family was $34,063. Males had a median income of $29,737 versus $20,135 for females. The per capita income for the town was $14,876. About 12.7% of families and 21.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 26.8% of those under age 18 and 21.2% of those age 65 or over.

Education
The students of Taylorsville are served by the Alexander County Schools district. There are two high schools in the district, Alexander Central High School and Alexander Early College, both of which are located in the town. However, 9% of students at Challenger Early College High School (a public high school in Hickory, North Carolina operated by Catawba County Schools) reside in Alexander County.

Notable people

 * Charles E. Allen – former Undersecretary for Intelligence and Analysis at the US Department of Homeland Security
 * Henlee Hulix Barnette – American social activist and professor of Christian ethics
 * Harry Deal and the Galaxies – longtime "beach music" band
 * Harry Gant – former NASCAR Cup Series driver
 * Romulus Z. Linney – U.S. congressman from 1895 to 1901
 * Jim Poole – MLB first baseman
 * Jerry Rushing – bootlegger and inspiration for The Dukes of Hazzard
 * Guppy Troup – former professional ten-pin bowler
 * Kyle Troup – professional ten-pin bowler
 * Onur Tukel – filmmaker
 * William Vanderbloemen – entrepreneur, pastor, speaker, and author
 * Rex White – former NASCAR Grand National Division (now Cup Series) champion

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: Taylorsville, North Carolina


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Sparta, North Carolina

Sparta is a town in Alleghany County, North Carolina, United States. As of the 2020 census, the population of the town was 1,834. It is the county seat of Alleghany County.

History
James H. Parks, an early businessman whose store stood near the present location of the ABC store, was one of three men who donated land for the county seat in 1866. Parks is credited with suggesting the name "Sparta", after the Greek city-state.

Noteworthy businesses established in Sparta included The Alleghany News (1889), the Bank of Sparta (1902), and the second store purchased by home improvement giant Lowe's (1949). Sparta's first shopping center, Trojan Village, opened in 1977, followed by Sparta Plaza in 1986.

The Alleghany County Courthouse and Jarvis House are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

On August 9, 2020, the town was the epicenter of a moderate earthquake that was felt as far as Georgia. The earthquake, which registered as a 5.1 on the Richter magnitude scale, was the largest earthquake to occur in North Carolina in over 100 years.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 6.2 km2, of which 0.02 sqkm, or 0.32%, is water.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 1,834 people, 732 households, and 409 families residing in the town.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,817 people, 825 households, and 441 families residing in the town. The population density was 765.2 PD/sqmi. There were 922 housing units at an average density of 388.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 94.06% White, 1.98% African American, 0.17% Native American, 0.55% Asian, 0.06% Pacific Islander, 2.20% from other races, and 0.99% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 7.71% of the population.

There were 825 households, out of which 22.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 39.0% were married couples living together, 12.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 46.5% were non-families. 41.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 22.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.01 and the average family size was 2.71.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 18.1% under the age of 18, 8.3% from 18 to 24, 24.3% from 25 to 44, 25.3% from 45 to 64, and 24.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 44 years. For every 100 females, there were 85.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 80.1 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $22,474, and the median income for a family was $37,596. Males had a median income of $23,304 versus $18,281 for females. The per capita income for the town was $14,237. About 10.6% of families and 18.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 17.0% of those under age 18 and 33.0% of those age 65 or over.

Notable locations

 * The Sparta Teapot Museum (now permanently closed).

Notable people

 * Boyden Carpenter (1909–1995), bluegrass artist
 * Zach Galifianakis (born 1969), American actor, comedian, musician and writer
 * Del Reeves (1932–2007), country singer

title: Sparta, North Carolina


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Ansonville, North Carolina

Ansonville is a town in Anson County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 440 at the 2020 census. The town has a total area of 3.8 km2, all land. It is located on the northern edge of Anson County, about a mile west of the Pee Dee River.

History
The town was settled in 1844. In 1850, the North Carolina Legislature created the Carolina Female College in Ansonville. The facility was run by and for the daughters of local planters, and only served white women. Sources differ on when the facility closed exactly; However, all agree the Civil War was the reason for the school's closing, in either 1862 or 1867.

2020 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 636 people, 242 households, and 172 families residing in the town. The population density was 435.2 PD/sqmi. There were 262 housing units at an average density of 179.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 22.48% White, 76.42% African American, 0.47% Asian, and 0.63% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.31% of the population.

There were 242 households, out of which 28.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 44.2% were married couples living together, 22.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 28.9% were non-families. 28.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.63 and the average family size was 3.24.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 24.2% under the age of 18, 8.8% from 18 to 24, 26.7% from 25 to 44, 24.2% from 45 to 64, and 16.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females, there were 85.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 81.9 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $26,576, and the median income for a family was $30,982. Males had a median income of $24,231 versus $17,708 for females. The per capita income for the town was $12,754. About 9.7% of families and 10.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 11.9% of those under age 18 and 7.9% of those age 65 or over.

title: Ansonville, North Carolina


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Lilesville, North Carolina

Lilesville is a town in Anson County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 395 at the 2020 census.

History
A post office called Lilesville has been in operation since 1827. The town was named for an early merchant.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 2.6 km2, all land.

Geology
Lilesville is home to the Lilesville Granite, a porphyritic igneous rock named for the town.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 459 people, 186 households, and 129 families residing in the town. The population density was 460.1 PD/sqmi. There were 202 housing units at an average density of 202.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 52.07% White, 47.49% African American, 0.22% Native American, and 0.22% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.22% of the population.

There were 186 households, out of which 28.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 50.0% were married couples living together, 15.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 30.6% were non-families. 29.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.47 and the average family size was 3.04.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 24.4% under the age of 18, 8.3% from 18 to 24, 25.1% from 25 to 44, 24.0% from 45 to 64, and 18.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females, there were 82.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 86.6 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $29,167, and the median income for a family was $40,000. Males had a median income of $30,179 versus $21,250 for females. The per capita income for the town was $14,099. About 11.9% of families and 13.0% of the population were below the poverty line, including 12.8% of those under age 18 and 30.4% of those age 65 or over.

title: Lilesville, North Carolina


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McFarlan, North Carolina

McFarlan is a town in Anson County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 94 at the 2020 census. The town was named after Alan McFarland, a railroad official.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 0.9 sqmi, all land.

McFarlan is located on U.S. Route 52 by the South Carolina border.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 89 people, 38 households, and 24 families residing in the town. The population density was 96.0 PD/sqmi. There were 44 housing units at an average density of 47.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 94.38% White and 5.62% African American.

There were 38 households, out of which 23.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 50.0% were married couples living together, 10.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 36.8% were non-families. 34.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 15.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.34 and the average family size was 3.04.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 23.6% under the age of 18, 2.2% from 18 to 24, 25.8% from 25 to 44, 24.7% from 45 to 64, and 23.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 43 years. For every 100 females, there were 74.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 83.8 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $26,875, and the median income for a family was $52,917. Males had a median income of $32,188 versus $15,833 for females. The per capita income for the town was $17,295. There were 16.7% of families and 14.5% of the population living below the poverty line, including no under eighteens and 45.5% of those over 64.

title: McFarlan, North Carolina


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Morven, North Carolina

Morven is a town in Anson County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 329 at the 2020 census. The town was named after a town in Argyllshire, Scotland.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 2.7 km2, all land.

Morven is located on US Highway 52.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 579 people, 207 households, and 148 families residing in the town. The population density was 534.1 PD/sqmi. There were 249 housing units at an average density of 229.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 22.45% White, 76.86% African American, 0.35% Native American, 0.35% from other races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.35% of the population.

There were 207 households, out of which 37.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 35.7% were married couples living together, 30.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 28.5% were non-families. 25.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.80 and the average family size was 3.37.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 34.0% under the age of 18, 9.2% from 18 to 24, 26.1% from 25 to 44, 18.0% from 45 to 64, and 12.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 30 years. For every 100 females, there were 72.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 69.0 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $23,333, and the median income for a family was $30,000. Males had a median income of $27,000 versus $17,344 for females. The per capita income for the town was $9,923. About 24.2% of families and 24.9% of the population were below the poverty line, including 33.3% of those under age 18 and 17.1% of those age 65 or over.

Notable people

 * Juanita Moody (1924–2015) – American cryptographer and intelligence analyst
 * Haywood Rivers (1922–2001) – African-American artist and gallery owner

title: Morven, North Carolina


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Peachland, North Carolina

Peachland is a town in Anson County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 390 at the 2020 census.

History
The Barrett-Faulkner House was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2012.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 1.0 sqmi, all land.

Peachland is located on U.S. Route 74, a four-lane divided highway that enters the city limits, but bypasses Peachland's business district. Since US 74 does not pass through any business or residential areas, its speed limit is 55 mph even within the city limits.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 554 people, 198 households, and 152 families residing in the town. The population density was 561.4 PD/sqmi. There were 213 housing units at an average density of 215.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 65.88% White, 31.23% African American, 0.54% Native American, 0.18% Pacific Islander, 0.54% from other races, and 1.62% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.99% of the population.

There were 198 households, out of which 33.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 51.0% were married couples living together, 19.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 23.2% were non-families. 22.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.80 and the average family size was 3.26.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 28.2% under the age of 18, 8.7% from 18 to 24, 27.6% from 25 to 44, 20.2% from 45 to 64, and 15.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 34 years. For every 100 females, there were 87.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 93.2 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $28,250, and the median income for a family was $31,923. Males had a median income of $29,773 versus $21,346 for females. The per capita income for the town was $12,607. About 20.7% of families and 26.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including 38.3% of those under age 18 and 11.6% of those age 65 or over.

title: Peachland, North Carolina


text:
Polkton, North Carolina

Polkton is a town in Anson County, North Carolina, United States. As of the 2020 census, the town population was 2,250, down from 3,375 in 2010.

The town is named after its founder, Leonidas L. Polk.

History
Polkton was founded by Leonidas Lafayette Polk, and incorporated in 1875. The Billy Horne Farm was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1989.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 8.2 km2, all land.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 2,250 people, 550 households, and 363 families residing in the town.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,195 people, 297 households, and 206 families residing in the town. The population density was 438.5 PD/sqmi. There were 336 housing units at an average density of 123.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 56.32% African American, 40.08% White, 1.34% Asian, 1.26% Native American, 0% Pacific Islander, 0.59% from other races, and 0.42% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.17% of the population.

There were 297 households, out of which 28.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 42.4% were married couples living together, 20.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 30.6% were non-families. 27.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 9.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.66 and the average family size was 3.25.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 18.7% under the age of 18, 10.4% from 18 to 24, 42.5% from 25 to 44, 19.9% from 45 to 64, and 8.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 34 years. For every 100 females, there were 185.2 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 217.3 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $30,329, and the median income for a family was $35,313. Males had a median income of $23,125 versus $20,682 for females. The per capita income for the town was $13,783. About 16.3% of families and 22.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including 31.5% of those under age 18 and 22.9% of those age 65 or over.

Education
The main campus of South Piedmont Community College is on US Highway 74 at the edge of Polkton. SPCC serves Anson and Union counties.

title: Polkton, North Carolina


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Wadesboro, North Carolina

Wadesboro is a town and the county seat of Anson County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 5,008 at the 2020 census. The town was originally found in 1783 as New Town but changed by the North Carolina General Assembly to Wadesboro in 1787 to honor Colonel Thomas Wade, a native son, state legislator, and Revolutionary War commander of the Anson County Regiment.

History
Originally named Newtown, the town was renamed by the North Carolina General Assembly in 1787 to honor of Colonel Thomas Wade after his service with the Anson County Regiment of militia in the American Revolutionary War.

In 1900, astronomers determined that Wadesboro would be the best location in North America for viewing a total solar eclipse. The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory, then based in Washington, D.C., loaded several railroad cars with scientific equipment and headed to the town.

The Boggan-Hammond House and Alexander Little Wing, United States Post Office, and Wadesboro Downtown Historic District are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Geography
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 16.4 km2, of which 0.03 sqkm, or 0.20%, is water.

Wadesboro is situated 19 mi west of Rockingham, 23 mi north of Cheraw, 28 mi east of Monroe, and 30 mi south of Albemarle.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 5,008 people, 2,022 households, and 1,164 families residing in the town.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 5,813 people, 2,303 households, and 1,428 families residing in the town. The population density was 921.2 PD/sqmi. There were 2,692 housing units at an average density of 426.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 35.6% White, 60.7% African American, 0.2% Native American, 1.4% Asian, 0.9% some other race, and 1.3% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.8% of the population.

There were 2,303 households, out of which 32.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 31.1% were headed by married couples living together, 25.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 38.0% were non-families. 34.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.3% were someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.40, and the average family size was 3.09.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 24.6% under the age of 18, 8.6% from 18 to 24, 23.1% from 25 to 44, 24.8% from 45 to 64, and 19.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 39.8 years. For every 100 females there were 81.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 76.5 males.

For the period 2007–11, the estimated median annual income for a household in the town was $32,550, and the median income for a family was $34,522. Male full-time workers had a median income of $38,385 versus $29,297 for females. The per capita income for the town was $17,055. About 19.0% of families and 22.8% of the population were below the poverty line, including 39.1% of those under age 18 and 11.1% of those age 65 or over.

Education
Wadesboro is served by the Anson County School District.

Media

 * The Anson Record

Television stations available are from the Charlotte Designated Market Area, which Anson County and Wadesboro are a part of. Additionally, the local cable provider carries one station from Columbia, South Carolina, WIS-TV.

Notable people

 * Thomas Samuel Ashe, congressman from North Carolina; practiced law in Wadesboro
 * Hugh Hammond Bennett, founder of the Soil Conservation Service, now Natural Resources Conservation Service, president of the Association of American Geographers
 * Risden Tyler Bennett, congressman
 * Tom Brewer, baseball player
 * John Culpepper, congressman from North Carolina
 * Edmund Strother Dargan, congressman from Alabama and representative to the Confederate States Congress during the American Civil War
 * Thomas F. Davis, fifth Episcopal bishop of South Carolina; deacon at Calvary Church in Wadesboro
 * Ed Emory, football player and coach
 * Blind Boy Fuller, musician
 * John Gaddy, baseball player
 * Pryor A. Gibson, III, eight-term member of North Carolina General Assembly
 * John T. Henley, member of the North Carolina House of Representatives and North Carolina Senate
 * Cedrick Holt, football player
 * Timmy Horne, nose tackle for the Atlanta Falcons
 * Alvin Paul Kitchin, congressman from North Carolina; practiced law in Wadesboro
 * Leon Levine, founder of Family Dollar variety store chain
 * James A. Lockhart, congressman from North Carolina; lived in Wadesboro
 * Gary Porter, former driver of the Carolina Crusher and Grave Digger Monster Truck
 * Sylvester "Junkyard Dog" Ritter, professional wrestler
 * Cornelius Robinson, member of Provisional Confederate Congress
 * Leonidas D. Robinson, congressman from North Carolina
 * Jerome Robinson, baseball player
 * Will Robinson, basketball player
 * Trinton Sturdivant, football player
 * Hoyt Patrick Taylor, 21st lieutenant governor of North Carolina; former mayor of Wadesboro
 * Hoyt Patrick Taylor Jr., speaker of the North Carolina House of Representatives and 26th lieutenant governor of North Carolina
 * William L. Terry, congressman from Arkansas
 * Colonel Thomas Wade, Revolutionary War hero and legislator

In popular culture
Horror film Evil Dead II was filmed in Wadesboro, and the Huntley House became the production office for the film. Most of Evil Dead II was filmed in the woods near that farmhouse, or J.R. Faison Junior High School, which is where the interior cabin set was located.

title: Wadesboro, North Carolina


text:
Jefferson, North Carolina

Jefferson is a town in and the county seat of Ashe County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 1,622 at the 2020 U.S. census.

History
The North Carolina General Assembly created a special commission in 1799 to found a county seat for Ashe County. The commission purchased 50 acre of land to form the town of Jeffersonton, later named Jefferson. It is one of the first towns in the nation to bear the name of Thomas Jefferson, who was the vice president of the United States in 1799.

The Ashe County Courthouse and Poe Fish Weir are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Geography
Jefferson is located in the Appalachian Mountains.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 5.4 km2, of which 0.01 sqkm, or 0.20%, is water. The New River, which is part of the Ohio River watershed and one of the oldest and most scenic rivers in the eastern United States, flows through the town.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 1,622 people, 615 households, and 340 families residing in the town.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,422 people, 582 households, and 334 families living in the town. The population density was 738.2 PD/sqmi. There were 617 housing units, at an average density of 320.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup was 95.43% White, 1.41% African American, 0.35% Asian, 2.53% from other races, and 0.28% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.73% of the population.

There were 582 households, of which 19.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 45.2% were married couples living together, 10.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 42.6% were non-families. Of all households, 39.5% were made up of individuals, and 20.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.02 and the average family size was 2.66.

The median age was 51 years, with 14.3% of the population under the age of 18, 6.8% from 18 to 24, 21.2% from 25 to 44, 23.1% from 45 to 64, and 34.7% who were 65 years of age or older. For every 100 females, there were 73.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 70.7 males.

The median household income was $22,847, and the median family income was $34,554. Males had a median income of $26,500 versus $18,929 for females. The per capita income for the town was $15,505. About 11.6% of families and 15.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 18.3% of those under age 18 and 19.6% of those age 65 or over.

title: Jefferson, North Carolina


text:
Lansing, North Carolina

Lansing is a resort town in Ashe County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 126 at the 2020 census.

Lansing is a popular destination among retirees and tourists from Florida, as well as those from the lower elevations of the Carolinas and Georgia.

History
The town of Lansing was incorporated May 16, 1928. Lansing has one stop sign (a single three-way intersection at NC Highway 194 and Big Horse Creek Road).

In the early 20th century, Lansing was a very busy place, primarily because of the Norfolk and Western Railroad Company, whose daily mixed train, nicknamed the "Virginia Creeper", stopped here. Todd, West Jefferson, Lansing, White Oak, and other towns in North Carolina were also regular stopping places for the train. There were some productive iron mines around Lansing that used the railroad to move ore.

In the 1930s and 1940s, Lansing was home to one of two cheese factories in Ashe County. Lansing's cheese plant offered local farmers a place to bring their goods instead of traveling to the county's other cheese plant in West Jefferson.

Lansing High School was built in 1941 by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) using very beautiful local granite stone. The Clark-Miller Roller Mill, Lansing Historic District, Lansing School, Miller Homestead, and Perry-Shepherd Farm are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 0.9 km2, of which 0.02 sqkm, or 2.18%, is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 151 people, 69 households, and 38 families residing in the town. The population density was 396.9 PD/sqmi. There were 83 housing units at an average density of 218.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 100.00% White.

There were 69 households, out of which 27.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 36.2% were married couples living together, 17.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 43.5% were non-families. 42.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 26.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.19 and the average family size was 3.03.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 24.5% under the age of 18, 8.6% from 18 to 24, 27.8% from 25 to 44, 17.9% from 45 to 64, and 21.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 37 years. For every 100 females, there were 75.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 72.7 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $18,125, and the median income for a family was $26,563. Males had a median income of $21,250 versus $18,571 for females. The per capita income for the town was $11,560. There were 9.8% of families and 17.3% of the population living below the poverty line, including 31.0% of under eighteens and 23.9% of those over 64.

title: Lansing, North Carolina


text:
West Jefferson, North Carolina

West Jefferson is a resort town in Ashe County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 1,279 at the 2020 census.

West Jefferson is a popular destination among tourists and retirees from Florida, as well as those from the lower elevations of the Carolinas and Georgia.

History
West Jefferson was incorporated in 1909. At one time, West Jefferson had the distinction of having the only cheese factory in the southeastern United States. For many decades, West Jefferson was served by the Norfolk and Western Railroad, better known as the "Virginia Creeper". The railroad was the primary reason for the creation of West Jefferson, as the town became a major stop on the railway. With the decline of the railroad and the loss of textile factory jobs to foreign markets, West Jefferson's economy is increasingly devoted to the tourism industry. The town's location in the Appalachian Mountains has led to many tourists visiting the area each year, and many out-of-state tourists have begun to build cabins and housing developments around the town. Attractions include a walkable main street with food, breweries, local art, a cheese factory, a vintage theater, an annual festival, a caboose from a train, and a children's playground.

Geography
West Jefferson is situated in the Appalachian Mountain chain, in a valley between Mount Jefferson (to the east) and Paddy Mountain (to the west).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 5.4 km2, all land.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 1,279 people, 663 households, and 333 families residing in the town.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,081 people, 527 households, and 290 families residing in the town. The population density was 619.2 PD/sqmi. There were 601 housing units at an average density of 344.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 94.73% White, 0.37% African American, 1.57% Native American, 0.28% Asian, 0.19% Pacific Islander, 2.04% from other races, and 0.83% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 5.27% of the population.

There were 527 households, out of which 22.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 40.4% were married couples living together, 11.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 44.8% were non-families. 41.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 19.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.02 and the average family size was 2.69.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 19.3% under the age of 18, 8.8% from 18 to 24, 25.2% from 25 to 44, 23.5% from 45 to 64, and 23.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 43 years. For every 100 females, there were 87.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 84.0 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $24,479, and the median income for a family was $35,000. Males had a median income of $22,800 versus $18,819 for females. The per capita income for the town was $19,799. About 11.2% of families and 18.9% of the population were below the poverty line, including 25.0% of those under age 18 and 16.9% of those age 65 or over.

West Jefferson Dr Pepper
West Jefferson is the home of soda manufacturers West Jefferson Dr Pepper (WJDP). The company is known for producing all their non-diet products with cane sugar, most of which are Dr Pepper Snapple Group (formerly Dr Pepper/Seven Up) products but also include Mountain Dew. WJDP is one of only two non-Pepsi franchises existing in the United States permitted to produce Mountain Dew.

The company does not ship outside its contracted territory, but several websites sell the product at a premium price. The premium price has been justified by the fact that WJDP is one of the last bottlers in the U.S. to use cane sugar instead of high fructose corn syrup.

Newspapers
Ashe County has two newspapers. The oldest covering West Jefferson and Ashe County is the Jefferson Post, which publishes twice weekly and is distributed throughout the county via subscription and newsstand sales. It is owned by Civitas Media, which operates a large chain of small-town newspapers.

The second newspaper is the "Ashe Mountain Times", known as the newspaper of content publishes once a week and is distributed through subscription and newsstand sales. It is the largest newspaper in Ashe County according to US Postal filings. It is owned by Jones Media publishing company and is a sister publication of the Watauga Democrat in Boone.

title: West Jefferson, North Carolina


text:
Banner Elk, North Carolina

Banner Elk is a town in Avery County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 1,028 at the 2010 census. Banner Elk is home to Lees–McRae College.

History
The area surrounding the Elk River was inhabited by the Cherokee before western settlement, although no evidence of a permanent Cherokee settlement has ever been found. It is likely the area was used for hunting and fishing. The first permanent settlement was established by Martin L. Banner in 1848. Although the Banner family originally came from Wales, Martin Banner moved from Forsyth County in the Piedmont region of North Carolina. Eventually, the Banner family grew to 55 members, and the area where they lived became known as Banner's Elk. This name was later shortened to Banner Elk when the town was incorporated in 1911.

The Banner Elk Hotel and Robert Chester and Elsie H. Lowe House are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 1,049 people, 277 households, and 147 families residing in the town.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 811 people, 215 households, and 124 families residing in the town. The population density was 679.8 PD/sqmi. There were 290 housing units at an average density of 243.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 90.26% White, 3.95% African American, 0.62% Native American, 1.23% Asian, 0.25% Pacific Islander, 1.23% from other races, and 2.47% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.85% of the population.

Of the 215 households, 23.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 46.5% were married couples living together, 8.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 42.3% were non-families. 30.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.13 and the average family size was 2.65.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 10.7% under the age of 18, 47.8% from 18 to 24, 16.8% from 25 to 44, 14.9% from 45 to 64, and 9.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 22 years. For every 100 females, there were 93.1 males

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 4.9 km2, all land.

Climate
Banner Elk is located in North America's humid continental climate zone due to its elevation, which gives it a climate more like that of Altoona, Pennsylvania, than Asheville, North Carolina, during the winter. During the summer the temperatures are much like a mountain lake town in New Hampshire. The town typically has cold, snowy winters and mild summers.

Attractions
During summertime there is hiking, whitewater rafting, fishing, and other activities. The largest lake in the area, Watauga Lake, is a favorite spot just 30 minutes away for boating, fishing and wake boarding. In the winter the main activities are skiing and snowboarding. There are two slopes in the area: Beech Mountain and Sugar Mountain. There was formerly a third, but in the winter of 2008-2009, Hawks' Nest became an all-tubing park, the largest in the Eastern United States.

There are several restaurants in Banner Elk in addition to a post office, bank, and many lodging choices. The town has hosted the Woolly Worm festival over the third weekend of October since 1978.

In the 1970s, Beech Mountain was home to a theme park based on The Wizard of Oz, called The Land of Oz, but it closed after 10 years. The attraction was never fully removed, and there have been various attempts to revive it.

Education
Lees–McRae College is a private four-year college in Banner Elk. Banner Elk has a K-5th school, run by the Avery County School system.

title: Banner Elk, North Carolina


text:
Crossnore, North Carolina

Crossnore is a town in Avery County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 143 at the 2020 census.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 0.4 sqmi, all land.

History
The Crossnore Presbyterian Church, Crossnore School Historic District, Weaving Room of Crossnore School, and Milligan Shuford Wise and Theron Colbert Dellinger Houses are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 242 people, 96 households, and 62 families residing in the town. The population density was 548.8 PD/sqmi. There were 119 housing units at an average density of 269.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 93.80% White, 0.41% African American, 4.13% Native American, and 1.65% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 4.55% of the population.

There were 96 households, out of which 29.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 54.2% were married couples living together, 8.3% had a female householder with no husband present, and 35.4% were non-families. 33.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.42 and the average family size was 3.13.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 29.8% under the age of 18, 6.6% from 18 to 24, 27.3% from 25 to 44, 24.0% from 45 to 64, and 12.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 34 years. For every 100 females, there were 87.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 82.8 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $24,688, and the median income for a family was $40,000. Males had a median income of $26,250 versus $23,125 for females. The per capita income for the town was $13,960. About 12.5% of families and 12.8% of the population were below the poverty line, including 16.5% of those under the age of eighteen and 14.6% of those 65 or over.

Education
A group home named The Crossnore School, Inc., was established in 1913 and now houses approximately 100 students. Crossnore School has been praised for providing high-quality care at a lower cost than typical for most orphanages.

Notable people

 * Tommy Burleson – former NBA player, played on 1974 NC State National Champion team, and 1972 USA Olympic team
 * Virginia Foxx – member of the United States House of Representatives for North Carolina's 5th congressional district (since 2005)

title: Crossnore, North Carolina


text:
Elk Park, North Carolina

Elk Park is a town in Avery County, North Carolina, United States. The town was so named because of the number of elk killed there. The population was 452 at the 2010 census.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 0.7 sqmi, all land.

History
In 1882, the East Tennessee and Western North Carolina Railroad ("Tweetsie") linked Cranberry and Johnson City, Tennessee with a stop at Elk Park; three years later, Elk Park was incorporated. In 1911, Avery County was established; originally Elk Park was to serve as the county seat, but was changed after North Carolina Lieutenant Governor William C. Newland made a deal that the new county seat would be named after him for his aid in passage of the bill. However, Elk Park served as a temporary county seat while the new incorporated town of Newland was being constructed. In 1950, the East Tennessee and Western North Carolina decommissioned the railroad at Elk Park, ending rail service in Avery County, though it has survived as a town, unlike neighboring Cranberry.

Elk Park School was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2005.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 542 people, 328 households, and 231 families residing in the town.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 459 people, 205 households, and 125 families residing in the town. The population density was 659.2 PD/sqmi. There were 237 housing units at an average density of 340.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 99.56% White, and 0.44% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.40% of the population.

There were 205 households, out of which 31.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 44.4% were married couples living together, 13.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 39.0% were non-families. 35.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 14.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.24 and the average family size was 2.91.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 23.7% under the age of 18, 8.9% from 18 to 24, 28.5% from 25 to 44, 23.7% from 45 to 64, and 15.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 92.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 94.4 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $20,769, and the median income for a family was $27,500. Males had a median income of $26,000 versus $15,750 for females. The per capita income for the town was $13,486. About 15.6% of families and 20.0% of the population were below the poverty line, including 24.8% of those under age 18 and 19.2% of those age 65 or over.

title: Elk Park, North Carolina


text:
Grandfather, North Carolina

Grandfather is a village in Avery County, North Carolina, United States. It is the namesake of Grandfather Mountain. The village is a fully gated community within Grandfather Golf and Country Club, located along NC 105. The population was 24 at the 2020 census.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the village has a total area of 3.95 km2, of which 3.84 km2 is land and 0.11 km2, or 2.74%, is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 73 people, 32 households, and 24 families residing in the village. The population density was 48.6 PD/sqmi. There were 377 housing units at an average density of 251.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 95.89% White, 1.37% from other races, and 2.74% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 5.48% of the population.

There were 32 households, out of which 25.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 71.9% were married couples living together, 6.3% had a female householder with no husband present, and 21.9% were non-families. 21.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 9.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.28 and the average family size was 2.60.

In the village, the population was spread out, with 21.9% under the age of 18, 1.4% from 18 to 24, 9.6% from 25 to 44, 37.0% from 45 to 64, and 30.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 53 years. For every 100 females, there were 82.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 78.1 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $53,125, and the median income for a family was $115,385. Males had a median income of $5,625 versus $29,583 for females. The per capita income for the village was $44,706. There were 7.7% of families and 14.6% of the population living below the poverty line, including 30.8% of under eighteens and none of those over 64.

title: Grandfather, North Carolina


text:
Newland, North Carolina

Newland is a town in Avery County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 698 at the 2010 census. It is the county seat of Avery County. It is the highest, by elevation, county seat east of the Mississippi River.

History
Before its founding, the area was known as "Old Fields of Toe". It was an early muster ground in the campaign against Indians and before the Battle of Kings Mountain. On November 9, 1783, the land was granted to Colonel Waightstill Avery.

The name comes from the legend of Estatoe, pronounced 'S - ta - toe', about an Indian chief's daughter who fell in love with a warrior of a rival tribe. Because their love could never be accepted by either's families, they jumped from a precipice into the depths of a nearby river. In an alternative version, their love caused a bloody war between the tribes and Estatoe crafted a peace pipe with two stems in which both chiefs could smoke at once. The two rival chiefs assembled their respective followers on the bank of the river, and smoked till peace was concluded and Estatoe married her lover.

In 1899, the Linville River Railway (LRR) began rail service in the area, with a flag stop at "Old Fields". In 1911, upon the establishment of Avery County, Old Fields of Toe was designated as the site for the county seat and was renamed Newland, after the North Carolina Lieutenant Governor William C. Newland. In 1912, the Newland Post Office was established; while in 1913, the Avery County Courthouse and Avery County Jail opened (both in the National Register of Historic Places). In that same year, Newland was incorporated as a town. In 1914, the East Tennessee and Western North Carolina Railroad (ET&WNC), successor of the LRR, opened the Newland Depot, which was equipped with telephone and telegraph services; burned down in 1921, but was soon rebuilt and continued operations till 1940.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 0.7 sqmi, all land.

The East Tennessee and Western North Carolina Railroad ("Tweetsie") passed through the town until 1940.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 715 people, 388 households, and 178 families residing in the town.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 704 people, 334 households, and 207 families residing in the town. The population density was 1,044.4 PD/sqmi. There were 363 housing units at an average density of 538.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 99.01% White, 0.99% from other races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.56% of the population.

There were 334 households, out of which 25.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 42.5% were married couples living together, 15.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 38.0% were non-families. 34.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 17.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.09 and the average family size was 2.63.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 20.3% under the age of 18, 9.9% from 18 to 24, 26.7% from 25 to 44, 22.9% from 45 to 64, and 20.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females, there were 89.2 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 84.5 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $24,375, and the median income for a family was $33,875. Males had a median income of $22,917 versus $24,500 for females. The per capita income for the town was $18,344. About 16.3% of families and 21.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 21.8% of those under age 18 and 21.3% of those age 65 or over.

Notable people

 * Paul Johnson – former head football coach at Georgia Southern, Navy, and Georgia Tech
 * Joyce McKinney – became notorious for the alleged kidnap and rape of Mormon missionary Kirk Anderson in England in 1977, and hit the news again in 2008 for cloning her pit bull terrier in South Korea

title: Newland, North Carolina


text:
Sugar Mountain, North Carolina

Sugar Mountain is a village in Avery County, North Carolina, United States. The village is located on Sugar Mountain's north slope. The population was 371 at the 2020 census.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the village has a total area of 2.4 sqmi, all land. It is located next to Sugar Mountain Ski Area, one of several ski areas in this section of North Carolina.

Climate
Sugar Mountain has a humid continental climate (Dfb) with warm summers and moderately cold winters, though very cold by North Carolina standards. Due to the village's high elevation, one can experiences all four seasons in equal length on the mountain.

Demographics
At the 2000 census there were 226 people, 121 households, and 61 families in the village. The population density was 92.6 PD/sqmi. There were 1,212 housing units at an average density of 496.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 99.12% White, 0.44% Pacific Islander, and 0.44% from two or more races. The mountain's name comes from people who thought the snow on the ground to look like grains of sugar. They were the first settlers here and the name stuck. Another reason for the name Sugar Mountain is because in 1900 a majority of the inhabitants worked in a sugar factory. An old tale said that one night in late January, the sugar in the factory was leaking out of the building and caused a layer of white grains that looked just like snow.

Of the 121 households 7.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 43.0% were married couples living together, 4.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 48.8% were non-families. 35.5% of households were one person and 8.3% were one person aged 65 or older. The average household size was 1.87 and the average family size was 2.32.

The age distribution was 6.2% under the age of 18, 18.6% from 18 to 24, 27.9% from 25 to 44, 28.3% from 45 to 64, and 19.0% 65 or older. The median age was 43 years. For every 100 females, there were 113.2 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 114.1 males.

The median household income was $37,500 and the median family income was $50,208. Males had a median income of $26,528 versus $30,833 for females. The per capita income for the village was $27,063. About 6.8% of families and 21.0% of the population were below the poverty line, including none of those under the age of eighteen and 12.1% of those sixty five or over.

title: Sugar Mountain, North Carolina


text:
Aurora, North Carolina

Aurora is a town in Beaufort County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 520 at the 2010 Census.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 2.7 km2, of which 2.4 km2 is land and 0.3 km2, or 9.60%, is water.

The large Aurora phosphate mine is located just outside the town.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 583 people, 265 households, and 169 families residing in the town. The population density was 615.8 PD/sqmi. There were 316 housing units at an average density of 333.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 51.29% White, 47.51% African American, 0.34% from other races, and 0.86% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.37% of the population.

There were 265 households, out of which 23.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 43.8% were married couples living together, 15.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 36.2% were non-families. 33.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 18.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.20 and the average family size was 2.81.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 22.8% under the age of 18, 6.7% from 18 to 24, 23.0% from 25 to 44, 25.0% from 45 to 64, and 22.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 43 years. For every 100 females, there were 92.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 83.7 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $25,917, and the median income for a family was $42,000. Males had a median income of $33,542 versus $20,000 for females. The per capita income for the town was $13,252. About 15.5% of families and 20.9% of the population were below the poverty line, including 24.5% of those under age 18 and 16.9% of those age 65 or over.

Media

 * The Pamlico News], newspaper for the Pamlico Sound area
 * 104.5 FM WSTK Surge Radio – Rhythmic Hot AC/Dance Hits

Museum
Aurora is the home of the Aurora Fossil Museum, which houses specimens collected from the local PCS Phosphate Mine. The museum's collection includes a wide variety of marine fossils from the Pleistocene, Pliocene and Miocene eras. It also houses other specimens and a gem and mineral display. This display includes a black room to see fossils and minerals glow under a black light. There is also a full room of Native American artifacts as well as the newest addition, the Mine Room!

Education
Beaufort County Schools is the local school district. The local schools are S. W. Snowden School (K-8), and Southside High School.

BHM Regional Library operates the Hazel W. Guilford Memorial Library in Aurora.

Notable people

 * Richard Coffey, former NBA player

title: Aurora, North Carolina


text:
Bath, North Carolina

Bath is a town in Beaufort County, North Carolina, United States. Located on the Pamlico River, it developed a trade in naval stores, furs, and tobacco. The population was 249 as of 2010. North Carolina’s first town and port of entry, it was chartered on March 8, 1705.

Historically, Bath is often counted as North Carolina's first capital, as it was nominally so designated in 1712, when the Province of North Carolina was separated from the Province of Carolina and granted its own governor, though no permanent government institutions were located there. The capital was officially moved to Edenton in 1722, but the meetings of the General Assembly would still periodically occur in Bath in the 18th century. Bath was the site of Cary's Rebellion in 1711, and later served as one of many bases for notorious pirate Blackbeard. Bath waned in population, as its importance as both a port and government center were surpassed by the nearby city of New Bern. Bath's population fluctuated through the 20th and 21st centuries, but it has never exceeded 400 residents.

History
European settlement near the Pamlico River in the 1690s led to the founding of Bath. The first settlers were mostly English farmers and French Huguenots (Protestants who went as refugees to England and Virginia); among those inhabitants was John Lawson, naturalist, explorer, and town father. The town was named after Bath, England by the English settlers who founded the town.

In 1708, Bath consisted of 12 houses and about 50 people. Early Bath was disturbed by political rivalries, epidemics, Indian wars (the Tuscarora War), and piracy. Residents suffered yellow fever, along with a severe drought in 1711. A war between the early settlers and the powerful Tuscarora Indians arose following the fever and drought, as the American Indians tried to push out the peoples encroaching on their territory. They attacked Bath, as well as plantations along the rivers, but by 1715 were defeated by a coalition of colonial settlers from the Carolinas and a much larger group of American Indians allied against them.

From 1705 until 1722, Bath was the first nominal capital of North Carolina; Edenton was designated next. The colony had no permanent institutions of government until their establishment of the new capital New Bern in 1743.

John Lawson was known as the town father. He documented the beauty and unique qualities of the town, laid out the town plan and helped secure its charter in 1705. On March 8, 1705, the tract of land was incorporated as the town of Bath by the General Assembly at a meeting at Capt. John Heckenfield's home in Albemarle. Lawson had laid out the town into 71 lots measuring 1/2 acre and 4 rd (Poles) (about a tenth of an acre). The lots were located on the waterfront; as was typical, this was the main transportation route. The bordering road is now known as Main Street. Early merchants had easy access by the water.

Blackbeard the pirate was notorious in the southern colonies. He was a prominent figure by the time he settled briefly in Bath. He had conducted piracy off the East Coast and in the West Indies. He settled in Bath in 1718, gaining a royal pardon (these were offered by the Crown through colonial officials in an attempt to reduce piracy). He soon started piracy again, and was captured and executed later that year by Virginia forces. Bath was also the site of Cary's Rebellion in 1711.

During the Great Awakening in America, the English Methodist evangelist, George Whitefield, visited the town four times between 1747 and 1762 to preach the gospel. On his fourth visit, the Anglican church reportedly refused to allow him to preach. T. Jensen Lacy in his book, Amazing North Carolina, writes: "Whitfield finally gave up on converting Bath ... Just like the disciples of old, he drove his wagon to the outskirts of town, removed his shoes, shook the dirt from them, and put a curse on the town. He told onlookers that the Bible said people who couldn't get sinners to reform were to do just what he had done, and by shaking the dust of Bath from his shoes, the town would be cursed for its hardness of heart against the Word. Whitfield declared, 'I say to the village of Bath, village you shall remain, now and forever, forgotten by men and nations until such time as it pleases God to turn the light of His countenance again upon you.'"

Development moved past Bath and the town lies almost entirely within the same boundaries laid out by its primary founder, John Lawson. The major business cities of North Carolina have developed in the Piedmont area, stimulated by construction of railroads and nineteenth-century textile mills. Bath has remained a sleepy little village on the North Carolina coast. By contrast, population has continued to increase in the county, reaching nearly 50,000 in 2010. But the area is being developed for retirement and second homes, making it strong in a service economy, but with mostly low-paying jobs.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 2.4 km2, of which 0.9 km2 is land and 1.4 km2, or 60.99%, is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 275 people, 122 households, and 86 families residing in the town. The population density was 759.0 PD/sqmi. There were 150 housing units at an average density of 414.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 95.64% White, 2.91% African American, 1.09% Native American, and 0.36% from other races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.82% of the population.

There were 122 households, out of which 21.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 62.3% were married couples living together, 5.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 29.5% were non-families. 27.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 18.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.25 and the average family size was 2.73.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 19.6% under the age of 18, 3.3% from 18 to 24, 21.1% from 25 to 44, 32.0% from 45 to 64, and 24.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 49 years. For every 100 females, there were 92.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 88.9 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $50,625, and the median income for a family was $58,125. Males had a median income of $45,625 versus $23,958 for females. The per capita income for the town was $23,029. About 8.0% of families and 8.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 13.8% of those under the age of eighteen and 11.3% of those 65 or over.

Economy
Bath has changed little since the colonial and early federal period. People interested in heritage tourism have made it a destination for both locals of eastern North Carolina and visitors from other regions. Tourists swell the population during the summer. Favorite water-based recreation includes wakeboarding, water skiing, and boat rides or jet ski rides through the creek down to the river.

Other attractions include the Historic Bath State Historic Site, which gives tours of the old town of Bath; St. Thomas Church, the oldest standing Episcopal Church in North Carolina; historical houses; and a visitors center. A ferry route provides service from the northern shore of the Pamlico River to the southern shore of the river. Visitors to Goose Creek State Park can see and learn about the beautiful marshes and swamps along the Pamlico River and Goose Creek; they can rent canoes as well as fish from the shores of the river.

In addition to the Bath Historic District and St. Thomas Church, the Bath School, Bonner House, and Palmer-Marsh House are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Arts and culture
BHM Regional Library operates the Bath Community Library.

Education
Beaufort County Schools operates area public schools. Bath Elementary School is the local K-8 school, and Northside High School is the local high school.

In popular culture

 * Edna Ferber wrote Show Boat, featuring a Bath setting. She was inspired by her own visit to the showboat James Adams Floating Theatre when it visited Bath Creek during the spring of 1925. Her novel featured an interracial relationship and issues related to a mixed-race person during the period of racial segregation in the South. The novel was adapted as a film and as a musical produced on Broadway.

title: Bath, North Carolina