Since the first landing by French Huguenots in 1709, Beaufort, North Carolina has been visited by patriots,
privateers and pirates alike! It is North Carolina's third oldest town right after Bath and New Bern and was
surveyed in 1713 - nearly 20 years before the birth of George Washington!
Originally a fishing village and port of safety, the town is the county seat of Carteret County. It was built on
the site of the Indian Village, "Warelock" which means fish town or fishing village and until it was incorporated
in 1722, it was known as "Fishtowne"
In 1708 the Lord Proprietors realized this was a logical spot for a seaport town and made a Land Grant for
that purpose. In 1713, Robert Turner, a promoter, had 200 acres surveyed and lots and streets laid out.
The present street names reflect the early development of the town - Ann Street for Queen Anne, Craven
Street for the Earl of Craven; Moore Street for Colonel Maurice Moore of South Carolina who gave help in
the Indian Wars; Queen Street is a second tribute to Queen Anne; Pollock Street is for the governor at the
time of the 1713 survey; Orange Street for William, Prince of Orange, who became William III of England and
finally Turner Street for the man who had the vision, Robert Turner.
Beaufort does not have the palatial homes of other old North Carolina towns. Although in its early days it
was an important seaport, the plantation owners only had their town homes here so they could transact
business of shipping, boat building, whaling and other sea-related endeavors. Planters built their summer
homes in Beaufort for their families to escape the heat and enjoy the cooler, healthier climate.
Beaufort is proud of its heritage and still retains the atmosphere of an earlier time. Capture the town's charm
and ambiance while strolling its tree lined streets. Look for the many different types of unique architecture
throughout the town's famed 12-block historic district, which is listed on the National Register of Historic
Places. Wander the acclaimed Old Burying Ground where folklore stories are still alive recalling the history
behind the graves. Step through the white picket fence of the Restoration Grounds at the Beaufort Historic
Site to discover the town's heritage while touring authentically restored buildings.
But, above all, delight to Southern Hospitality when greeted with many a "Hey, how y'all doing!"
Beaufort lies on the coast bordering the southern portion of the Outer Banks. Its deep water harbor
welcomes ships of all sizes and its marinas are a favorite stop-over for mariners. Its seaside location affords
visitors a variety of recreational experiences. From in-line skating to roaming barrier islands with wild ponies,
Beaufort will delight and entertain you. So much, you'll want to come back again and again so you can
sample all our gourmet restaurants, shop our unique boutiques and experience all our festivals and special
events.



Excitement, Exploration, Relaxation
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Historic Beaufort, North Carolina
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