National Register Listing

Gray Gables

a.k.a. James S. Mitchell House

Main St., Winton, NC
Local significance of the building:
Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1982.

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 is home to a number of famous musicians, including James Taylor, Randy Travis, and Charlie Daniels.
North Carolina random facts
Hertford County, North Carolina has a rich and diverse history that spans several centuries. The area was originally home to native tribes such as the Meherrin and Chowanoke tribes. European settlers arrived in the region in the late 17th century, with the county being formally established in 1759.

During the American Revolutionary War, Hertford County played a significant role in the fight for independence. Its residents fought bravely in battles such as the Battle of Guilford Court House and the Battle of Camden. The county also served as a crucial supply route for the Continental Army.

In the mid-19th century, Hertford County experienced significant growth and development with the construction of the Seaboard and Roanoke Railroad. This brought new opportunities for trade and commerce, leading to the growth of towns such as Winton and Murfreesboro. Agriculture, particularly the cultivation of cotton, became a major economic driver for the county.

The 20th century brought about significant changes to Hertford County. The county faced the challenges of the Great Depression, but also saw advancements in infrastructure and education. Hertford County Memorial Hospital, now known as Vidant Roanoke-Chowan Hospital, was established in the mid-1940s, providing much-needed healthcare services to the community. Today, Hertford County continues to thrive as a blend of rural traditions and modern development, with a strong emphasis on agriculture, education, and community.

Overall, Hertford County's history is marked by resilience, progress, and a strong sense of community, shaping it into the vibrant county it is today.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Hertford County, North Carolina.

  • 1663 - Hertford County is established as a precinct of Albemarle County.
  • 1729 - Hertford County becomes a county in its own right.
  • 1861-1865 - Hertford County residents participate in the American Civil War.
  • 1881 - The county seat is moved from Murfreesboro to Winton.
  • 1909 - Bears Bridge, a historic swing bridge, is constructed.
  • 1941-1945 - Hertford County contributes to World War II efforts.
  • 1968 - The Chowan University's Bertie campus is built in Murfreesboro.
  • 1987 - The Murfreesboro Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
  • 1999 - Hertford County High School is established.