The Historic Albemarle Region

FOUR HUNDRED YEARS of History for North Carolina -indeed for the Nation- begins around the Albemarle and Pamlico Sounds.  From Sir Walter Raleigh's Lost Colony to existing homes that stood decades before the Revolutionary War to modern-day river towns, this is a land of rich heritage.

Chartered to the Lords Proprietors before the colonies were formed with the Atlantic Ocean as its eastern boundary and encompassing much of the original colony in its domain, the original Albemarle Region now includes the Albemarle, the Pamlico-Neuse Region, and the Outer Banks region -and beyond.

The mainland towns that line its rivers and estuaries are a microcosm of American history.  From first exploration by English colonists in 1584 to protestation against British tyranny in 1774 to invasion by the Union Army during the Civil War, the Albemarle has played a role in just about every major event in American history.

The area's often-turbulent history, however, is interwoven with a peaceful rural setting and a relaxed pace of life.  Albemarle towns are often preserved with an eye towards the past, but ever evolving with the times.  The countryside is characterized by farms and crossroad communities, punctuated by opulent plantation homes that are reminders of another time.  The bountiful waters of the Albemarle Sound and rivers are pristine and inviting to boaters and fishermen. And its people are proud of their heritage and their land, and love to invite visitors to join them.

• Albemarle Attractions By Interest or Sub-Region

• Albemarle Events & Things-To-Do

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