NORTH CAROLINA - A state with a rich and complex colonial past, boasts some of the oldest political subdivisions in the American South. While its landscape and boundaries evolved significantly over time, the foundations of its county system were laid early on. Four counties, all established in 1668, hold the distinction of being the oldest counties in North Carolina, representing the earliest administrative organization within the burgeoning Carolina colony.
NORTH CAROLINA - A state with a rich and complex colonial past, boasts some of the oldest political subdivisions in the American South. While its landscape and boundaries evolved significantly over time, the foundations of its county system were laid early on. Four counties, all established in 1668, hold the distinction of being the oldest counties in North Carolina, representing the earliest administrative organization within the burgeoning Carolina colony.North Carolina's Cornerstones: Unveiling the State's Oldest Counties, Established in 1668
This article explores the history of Currituck, Chowan, Pasquotank, and Perquimans counties, the foundational pillars of North Carolina's governance.
The Genesis: From Albemarle County to Four Distinct Entities (1664-1668)
The story of North Carolina's oldest counties begins with a larger entity. In 1664, Albemarle County was established as one of the original precincts within the Carolina colony (Source: North Carolina Office of Archives and History, NCpedia). This vast territory encompassed much of the northeastern region of present-day North Carolina.
However, for administrative purposes and to better manage the growing settlements, Albemarle County was divided in 1668, giving rise to the four oldest counties in North Carolina: Currituck, Chowan, Pasquotank, and Perquimans (Source: North Carolina Manual, historical records of North Carolina counties). These four counties have maintained their existence since this pivotal year.
Location and Early Significance
- Northeastern Hub: All four of these foundational counties are located in the northeastern corner of North Carolina, clustered around the Albemarle Sound region.
- Colonial Importance: This area was among the first parts of North Carolina to be settled by English colonists migrating south from Virginia. The counties' proximity to waterways facilitated early trade (likely in naval stores, furs, and tobacco) and transportation.
Understanding Extinct Counties
It's important to note that the formation of counties in colonial North Carolina was a dynamic process. While Currituck, Chowan, Pasquotank, and Perquimans have endured, other early counties did not. Bath County, for example, was established in 1696 but was later abolished in 1739, with its territory divided among other counties (Source: North Carolina Office of Archives and History). This highlights the evolving nature of administrative boundaries during the colonial period.
Currituck, Chowan, Pasquotank, and Perquimans counties stand as the venerable cornerstones of North Carolina's county system. Established in 1668 through the division of the original Albemarle County, they represent the oldest continuous county governments in the state. Their location in northeastern North Carolina reflects the earliest patterns of English settlement and their history is deeply intertwined with the colonial development of the region. These counties serve as living links to North Carolina's origins, embodying nearly three and a half centuries of history, governance, and community.
Sources:
- North Carolina Office of Archives and History
- NCpedia (State Library of North Carolina)
- North Carolina Manual (published by the NC Secretary of State)
- Historical records of North Carolina counties
- Specific county historical societies (Currituck, Chowan, Pasquotank, Perquimans)
