Sunny Side Inn
a.k.a. Sunny Side Oyster Bar
1102 Washington St., Williamston, NC Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1995.
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.
The largest natural sound in the world, the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, is located in North Carolina. It stretches over 70 miles along the state's Outer Banks.
Martin County was officially formed in 1774 and named after Josiah Martin, the last royal governor of North Carolina. During the American Revolution, the county saw some military activity, with a small battle taking place near Williamston in 1782. Following the war, agriculture, particularly the cultivation of tobacco and cotton, became the backbone of the local economy.
The 19th century brought significant changes to Martin County. With the construction of the Atlantic and North Carolina Railroad in the 1880s, transportation and trade improved, stimulating economic growth. The county became a hub for the timber industry, with logging and the production of lumber becoming major industries. In 1883, the town of Williamston was incorporated.
In the 20th century, Martin County continued to evolve. The Great Depression brought significant challenges, but the New Deal programs introduced by President Franklin D. Roosevelt provided relief and revitalization. During World War II, the county played a role in supporting the war effort through agriculture and the production of war materials. In the post-war era, the economy diversified with the growth of manufacturing and the emergence of new industries.
Today, Martin County is a rural and close-knit community with a mixture of agriculture, manufacturing, and service industries. There is a strong sense of pride in its history and the contributions made by its residents over the years. The county continues to adapt and thrive, while preserving its heritage and natural beauty.
Martin County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Martin County, North Carolina.
- 1774: Martin County is formed from parts of Tyrrell and Halifax counties.
- Early 19th century: The county sees significant population growth due to the cultivation of cotton and tobacco.
- 1861-1865: Martin County residents actively participate in the American Civil War.
- Late 19th century: The county experiences industrial growth with the construction of railroads and the introduction of lumber and turpentine industries.
- Early 20th century: The small town of Williamston becomes the county seat.
- 1928: The Roanoke River floods causing widespread destruction and loss of life in Martin County.
- 1939: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers completes the construction of the Williamston-Roanoke River flood control project.
- 1940s: Agriculture remains a major part of the county's economy, with the introduction of soybean farming.
- 1970s: Martin County experiences economic decline with the decline of the agricultural and textile industries.
- Late 20th century: The county focuses on diversifying its economy, attracting new industries such as pharmaceutical manufacturing.
- 2000s: Efforts are made to promote tourism and preserve the county's natural resources, including the establishment of wildlife refuges and eco-tourism initiatives.