National Register Listing

Roberts-Carter House

Off NC 37, Gatesville, NC
Local significance of the building:
Historic - Aboriginal; Architecture; Agriculture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1984.

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.

architecture houses residential buildings
North Carolina has a rich African-American history, including the establishment of the first free black community in the United States, known as the Roanoke Island Freedmen's Colony, during the Civil War.
North Carolina random facts
Gates County, North Carolina, located in the northeastern part of the state, has a rich history that dates back to the 17th century. Originally inhabited by indigenous tribes, including the Chowanoke and Meherrin, the area was explored by European settlers in the late 1600s. The county was officially established in 1779 and named after General Horatio Gates, a Revolutionary War hero.

During the early years, agriculture, particularly tobacco farming, became the main economic activity in Gates County. In the 19th century, the county experienced a boom in cotton production, leading to an increase in enslaved African Americans working on the plantations. The county also became a hub for the logging industry, with vast forests surrounding the area providing ample resources.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Gates County saw the construction of railroads, which bolstered trade and transportation in the region. The county also played a significant role in education, with the opening of the Gatesville Academy in 1826, which offered traditional courses as well as vocational training.

Throughout its history, Gates County has faced challenges, including the devastating impact of the Civil War, the Great Depression, and changing agricultural practices. However, the resilience of its residents has allowed the county to adapt and survive. Today, Gates County maintains its rural character, with agriculture, forestry, and small businesses driving the local economy. The county also preserves its historical sites and landmarks, serving as a reminder of its vibrant past.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Gates County, North Carolina.

  • 1660: Gates County is established in the Province of Carolina.
  • 1776: The Battle of Great Bridge takes place near the border of Gates County, marking an important Revolutionary War victory for American forces.
  • 1781: British troops march through Gates County during the American Revolutionary War.
  • 1790: Gates County's population reaches 3,754.
  • 1805: The first courthouse is built in Gatesville, becoming the county seat.
  • 1830: The Dismal Swamp Canal opens, providing an important transportation route through Gates County.
  • 1861: Gates County residents vote in favor of secession from the Union, joining the Confederate States of America during the Civil War.
  • 1863: Union forces occupy and hold Gatesville for several months, causing significant damage to the area.
  • 1870: The population of Gates County is 5,992.
  • 1890: A severe hurricane devastates Gates County, causing widespread destruction and loss of life.
  • 1902: The Atlantic and North Carolina Railroad reaches Gates County, boosting economic development.
  • 1917: Gatesville High School is established.
  • 1939: The Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge is established, encompassing a significant portion of Gates County.
  • 1944: The Chowan River Bridge is completed, improving transportation links to neighboring counties.
  • 1980: The population of Gates County is 10,384.
  • 2010: The population of Gates County is 12,197.