North Carolina Counties
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North Carolina Counties

North Carolina is divided into one hundred counties. The establishment of North Carolina counties stretches over 240 years, beginning in 1668 with the creation of Albemarle County and ending with the 1911 creation of Avery and Hoke counties. Five counties have been divided or abolished altogether, the last being Dobbs County in 1791.
 

Martin County, North Carolina

Martin County Education, Geography, and HistoryMartin County, North Carolina Courthouse

Martin County is a county located in the state of North Carolina. Based on the 2010 census, the population was 24,505. Its county seat is Williamston.

Etymology - Origin of Martin County Name

It was named in honor of Josiah Martin, the last Royal Governor of North Carolina. It is probable that this county's name would have been changed like those of Dobbs and Tryon but for the popularity of Alexander Martin, who was governor, 1782-1785 and 1789-1792.

Demographics:

County QuickFacts: CensusBureau Quick Facts

Martin County History

Martin was formed in 1774 from Halifax and Tyrrell. It was named in honor of Josiah Martin, the last Royal Governor of North Carolina. It is probable that this county's name would have been changed like those of Dobbs and Tryon but for the popularity of Alexander Martin, who was governor, 1782-1785 and 1789-1792. It is in the eastern section of the State, and is bounded by Washington, Beaufort, Pitt, Edgecombe, Halifax and Bertie counties. The present land area is 461.17 square miles and the 2000 population was 25,546. The act establishing the county made no provision for the courthouse, prison and stocks. However, a law was passed making provision for levying special taxes for the county seat. There is nothing to indicate the location. In 1779 Williamston, first called Squhawky, was laid out on the land of Thomas Hunter. Williamston is the county seat.

Geography: Land and Water

As reported by the Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 462 square miles (1,200 km2), of which 461 square miles (1,190 km2) is land and 0.3 square miles (0.78 km2) (0.06%) is water.

Neighboring Counties

Bordering counties are as follows:

  • Bertie County - northeast
  • Washington County - east
  • Beaufort County - southeast
  • Pitt County - southwest
  • Edgecombe County - west
  • Halifax County - northwest

Education

The primary and secondary public school functions are performed by Martin County Schools, a district covering the entire county. Martin Community College is located in Williamston.



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