National Register Listing

Raeford Historic District

Roughly bounded by Jackson St., E. Central Ave., the Aberdeen and Rockfish, and E and W Elwood Ave., Raeford, NC
Local significance of the district:
Architecture; Transportation; Community Planning And Development; Commerce

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2006.

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 successful powered flight of a helicopter, which occurred in Asheville in 1924.
North Carolina random facts
Hoke County, located in the southeastern part of North Carolina, has a rich and diverse history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Lumbee and Tuscarora, who relied on the land's resources for sustenance and cultural practices. However, European settlers arrived in the 18th century and impacted the region significantly.

During the American Revolution, Hoke County played a crucial role in the fight for independence. It became a hub for Patriot activity, with several notable battles, such as the Battle of Raft Swamp, taking place in the area. The county was officially established in 1911 and named after Confederate General Robert F. Hoke.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, agriculture dominated Hoke County's economy. Tobacco, cotton, and corn were the main crops grown, and the county became known for its thriving farming community. However, with the decline of the agricultural industry in the latter half of the 20th century, Hoke County faced economic challenges.

In recent years, Hoke County has made efforts to diversify its economy, focusing on sectors such as healthcare, education, and tourism. The establishment of Fort Bragg, one of the largest military bases in the world, nearby has also had a significant impact on the county's economy. Today, Hoke County continues to preserve its rich history while embracing the opportunities of the present.

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

  • ~10,000 BCE - Native American tribes, including the Pee Dee, Cheraw, and Tuscarora, inhabit the area that will become Hoke County.
  • 1777 - Hoke County is established and named after Confederate General Robert F. Hoke.
  • 1830s - The arrival of the railroad sparks economic development in the county.
  • 1861-1865 - Hoke County residents participate in the Civil War on the side of the Confederacy.
  • 1878 - Raeford, the county seat, is incorporated.
  • 1920s - The timber industry booms, bringing prosperity and growth to Hoke County.
  • 1921 - The North Carolina General Assembly authorizes the establishment of Flora MacDonald College, a women's college, in Red Springs.
  • 1942 - The U.S. Army establishes the Camp Mackall training facility, which contributes to Hoke County's population and economy during World War II.
  • 1950s-1970s - Civil rights movements and desegregation efforts bring significant changes to Hoke County.
  • 2001 - Hoke County High School's mascot, the "Bucks," is changed to the "Bull Dogs" to promote diversity and inclusivity.