National Register Listing

Sterling Cotton Mill

a.k.a. Franklinton Cotton Mill

SE jct. of Seabord RR tracks and E. Green St., Franklinton, NC
Local significance of the building:
Architecture; Industry

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1996.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

North Carolina was the site of the first gold rush in the United States, in the early 1800s. The town of Charlotte was named after Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, the wife of King George III of England.
North Carolina random facts
Franklin County, located in the state of North Carolina, has a rich and diverse history dating back to the early 1700s. The county was officially formed in 1779 from parts of Bute County, and it was named in honor of Benjamin Franklin, one of the founding fathers of the United States. The region was initially inhabited by the Tuscarora Native American tribe, but Europeans began settling in the area in the early 18th century.

During the American Revolution, Franklin County played a significant role as a site for skirmishes and military activities. The Battle of Moore's Creek Bridge, a pivotal event in the struggle for independence, occurred just south of the county's borders. Many local residents fought in the war and contributed to the cause of liberty.

In the 19th century, Franklin County experienced economic growth and development. Agriculture, including the cultivation of tobacco and cotton, became the dominant industry, and several towns were established. The county also became a transportation hub with the construction of rail lines, which contributed to its growth and prosperity.

In the 20th century, Franklin County underwent significant social and economic transformations. The decline of agriculture and the rise of industrialization led to shifts in the county's economic makeup. Today, Franklin County continues to thrive, with a diverse economy encompassing agriculture, manufacturing, and services. The county also cherishes its historical heritage and has preserved many landmarks and sites of significance, ensuring that the rich history of Franklin County is celebrated and remembered.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Franklin County, North Carolina.

  • 1779: Franklin County established as a county in the state of North Carolina
  • 1787: The town of Louisburg incorporated, serving as the county seat
  • 1861-1865: Franklin County heavily impacted by the American Civil War
  • 1880s: Growth of tobacco industry significantly impacts the local economy
  • 1900s: Construction of railroads further supports economic development in the county
  • 1940s-1950s: Franklin County experiences population growth due to World War II and post-war boom
  • 1997: Hurricane Fran causes significant damage to the county
  • Present: Franklin County is a growing and diverse community with a strong agricultural heritage