Whiteville, NC, was founded in 1811. Its courthouse is one of the oldest in the state. The city was originally called White's Crossing after James B. White, the owner of the town site, but was changed to Whiteville in 1832. Now, it is the largest city in Columbus County and the county seat.
U.S. Routes 701, 73, and 74 all run through areas of Whiteville, which is one reason it was a popular city for farmers for a long time. Having access to these major roadways made it easier for farmers to ship their produce. Whiteville is still a farm-rich community, which provides residents many excellent opportunities for procuring fresh produce, including produce stands and farmers' markets. Some of the top crops are strawberries and peanuts.
Whiteville is home to the
N.C. Pecan Festival. This annual event held in the fall features family-friendly activities, food, and live entertainment. It's a fun time all around.
Apiarists will also be pleased to know that that
North Carolina Honey Festival is located in Whiteville. This annual event helps to educate visitors about the importance of bees in the community. It's also a great way to enjoy some delicious honey and products made from honey, like skincare, candles, and sauces.
Also of note is the
North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences at Whiteville. This branch of the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences of Raleigh provides great learning opportunities for kids with multiple interactive exhibits. Topics include North Carolina plant and wildlife, the scientific process, and exploration.
Whiteville has all the charming small town vibes but is less than an hour from additional entertainment and shopping in Wilmington, N. Myrtle Beach, and the Brunswick County beaches.