Sampson County, North Carolina
Beatty-Corbett House
Bethune-Powell Buildings
Bizzell, Asher W., House
Black River Presbyterian and Ivanhoe Baptist Churches
Boykin, Gen. Thomas, House
Bullard, Thomas, House
Butler, Marion, Birthplace
Caison, Dan E., Sr., House
Cherrydale
Clear Run
Clinton Commercial Historic District
Clinton Depot
College Street Historic District
Dell School Campus
Delta Farm
Faison, William E., House
Graves-Stewart House
Herring, Robert, House
Herring, Troy, House
Highsmith, Lewis, Farm
Hollingsworth-Hines Farm
Howard-Royal House
Howell-Butler House
Johnson Building
Johnson, Samuel, House and Cemetery
Kerr, James, House
Killett, Marcheston, Farm
Kornegay, Marshall, House and Cemetery
Lamb, James H., House
Lee, Lovett, House
Matthews, Dr. James O., Office
Matthis, Fleet, Farm
McPhail, Jonas, House and McPhail, Annie, Store
Murphy-Lamb House and Cemetery
Oak Plain Presbyterian Church
Oates, Livingston, Farm
Owen Family House and Cemetery
Patrick-Carr-Herring House
Pigford House
Pope House
Pugh, Francis, House
Pugh-Boykin House
Royal-Crumpler-Parker House
Seavey, Dr. John B., House and Cemetery
Sloan, Dr. David Dickson, Farm
Thirteen Oaks
West Main-North Chesnutt Streets Historic District
Williams, Isaac, House
Williams, Isaac, House (Boundary Increase)
Wilson, John E., House
European settlers began arriving in the area in the early 18th century, primarily from Scotland and Ireland. The county was officially established in 1784 and named after John Sampson, a prominent figure in North Carolina politics at the time. The agricultural potential of the fertile soil attracted many settlers, who established prosperous plantations and engaged in the cultivation of cotton, tobacco, and timber.
During the Civil War, Sampson County witnessed significant changes and struggles. Confederate troops were primarily stationed in the county to defend the region against Union forces. The Battle of Wise's Fork near Kinston, in which many local soldiers participated, saw heavy casualties. The post-war era brought challenges to the county, including social unrest and economic turmoil, as the region sought to recover from the devastating effects of the war.
In the 20th century, Sampson County experienced advancements in infrastructure, education, and industry. The county's agricultural economy diversified, with the growth of poultry farming, hog production, and other agricultural industries. The establishment of institutions like Sampson Community College and improvements in transportation infrastructure further contributed to the county's progress.
Today, Sampson County continues to thrive as a primarily rural community with a rich agricultural heritage. The county's historical significance, vibrant culture, and natural beauty make it a compelling destination for residents and visitors alike.
Brief timeline of the history of Sampson County, North Carolina:
- 1784 - Sampson County is formed from territory taken from Duplin County.
- 1787 - The county seat is established in Clinton.
- 1830s - The construction of plank roads improves transportation and stimulates the county's economy.
- 1861-1865 - Sampson County contributes soldiers to the Confederate army during the American Civil War.
- 1908 - The General Assembly establishes East Carolina Teachers Training School, which later becomes East Carolina University.
- 1950s-1960s - The Sampson County Race Relations Committee is formed to promote interracial harmony during the Civil Rights Movement.
- 1996 - Hurricane Fran causes extensive damage to Sampson County.
- 2007 - The Sampson County History Museum opens, showcasing the county's rich history.
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Sampson County, North Carolina.