Washington County, North Carolina

Washington County Education, Geography, and History

Washington County is a county located in the state of North Carolina. Based on the 2010 census, the population was 13,228. Its county seat is Plymouth. The county was formed in 1799 from the western third of Tyrrell County. It was named for George Washington.

Etymology - Origin of Washington County Name

It was named in honor of George Washington.

Demographics:

County QuickFacts: CensusBureau Quick Facts

Washington County History

Washington was formed in 1799 from Tyrrell. It was named in honor of George Washington. It is in the eastern section of the State and is bounded by Tyrrell, Hyde, Beaufort, Martin and Bertie counties, and the Albemarle Sound. The present land area is 348.46 square miles and the 2000 population was 13,723. The courts were ordered to be held at Lee's Mill until a courthouse could be erected. Plymouth, already in existence when the county was established was incorporated in 1807. In 1823 the courthouse was moved from Lee's Mill to Plymouth. In 1873 the General Assembly authorized that the county seat be moved from Plymouth to McKey's Ferry provided the people approved the same by popular vote. Plymouth is the county seat.

Geography: Land and Water

As reported by the Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 424 square miles (1,100 km²), of which 348 square miles (900 km²) is land and 76 square miles (200 km²) (18%) is water. The county borders the Albemarle Sound.

Neighboring Counties

Bordering counties are as follows:

• Chowan County - north
• Perquimans County - northeast
• Tyrrell County - east
• Hyde County - southeast
• Beaufort County - southwest
• Martin County - west
• Bertie County - northwest

Education

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