Edgecombe County: History in Tarboro and Princeville

Edgecombe County’s history can be explored from several perspectives: Tarboro combines historic architecture with a designated trail, while Princeville offers a distinct focus on its founding story and cultural heritage. At the county level, preserved cultural heritage also includes architecture, historic archives, folklore, industry, and oral traditions. This offers a look at everything from specific places to different forms of cultural tradition.

Tarboro: Trail and Historic Architecture

Tarboro Town Common is listed on the National Register of Historic Places; it was listed in 1970. The Colonial Tarboro Historic Trail begins at the Blount-Bridgers House and takes visitors through North Carolina’s largest historic district. The trail is designated for hiking, biking, or driving. You can consider in advance which mode of transportation best fits your visit. Also check current maps before your visit.

The Tarboro Historic District includes significant residential, church, and commercial architecture from the late 18th century and the early to mid-19th century, as well as an outstanding collection of Victorian houses, cottages, and bungalows. The different periods and building types offer more than one way to explore the district’s architectural history. If this interests you, you can take the different architectural highlights into account when planning your trip.

Princeville: Founding and Cultural Heritage

Princeville was incorporated in 1885, after formerly enslaved people settled in an area called Freedom Hill. The town was later renamed in honor of Turner Prince. It is among the first African American towns to be incorporated in the United States. Freedom Hill refers to the area of the original settlement, not the town’s later name.

Visitors can learn about the town’s cultural heritage at the Princeville Museum. Princeville is also a symbol of African American determination and perseverance. The town lies along the Tar River; because of its elevation, it has experienced repeated flooding over the years. Its founding, naming, cultural heritage, and history of flooding offer different perspectives on Princeville’s past.

Culture and Travel Planning in Edgecombe County

The county’s preserved cultural heritage includes architecture, historic archives, folklore, industry, and oral traditions. This breadth goes beyond buildings and also offers narrative and industrial perspectives on the county’s culture. Edgecombe County’s visitor offerings also include scenic parks, historic sites, and local events. If an event is part of your plans, check the dates in advance.

Tarboro lies between North Carolina’s Piedmont and Outer Banks and is accessible via Interstate 95, Exit 138. Its location and the exit provide a specific reference point for finding your way around North Carolina. If you’re looking for a hotel for your stay, you can first decide whether Tarboro’s architecture and trail, the museum in Princeville, or local events will guide your plans. You can then compare a hotel’s location with the places you’d like to visit.

Discover more destinations: Tarboro, New Hanover County, Wilson County, Watauga, Transylvania County, Alleghany County, Brunswick, Pasquotank County

For the main travel overview: North Carolina.