HISTORY
Washington, NC was founded in 1776 and was the first American city named after George Washington. Over the years the community’s nicknames have included “Original Washington” and “Little Washington.” The city was incorporated in 1782 and became the county seat in 1785. Developed as a regional shipping center and port, Washington was a federal supply outpost during the Revolutionary War. Devastating fires led to the construction of the Washington Historic District in the 1900s.
AMENITIES
Vidant Beaufort Hospital is a full-service hospital with more than 50 physicians as well as 600 nurses, technicians and support staff. A full-service lab, diagnostic imaging services and physical and respiratory therapy are among the wide range of services offered.
Beaufort County Schools provide educational opportunities for Pre-K-12 students, while a charter school and private schools are also available to area students. Among the several higher education institutions are Beaufort County Community College and East Carolina University.
Agriculture is important to the economy in Beaufort County; which is the top producer in the state for wheat and corn as well as the second largest producer of soybeans in North Carolina. The seafood industry is also integral as the county is tops in the state in terms of producing farm-raised fish. Major industrial corporations include PCS Phosphate, Hackney Industries and Fountain Powerboats.
RECREATION
The Intracoastal Waterway and Pamlico River and Sound are easily accessible from Washington, NC providing opportunities for fishing, sailing, boating and more. Moore Aquatic & Fitness Center, Havens Garden Park, Stewart Parkway & Waterfront Docks, Mason’s Landing and Beebe Park are just a few of the facilities operated by the city of Washington. There are also tennis courts, ballparks and a skate park.
Annual celebrations include Taste the Good Life in Little Washington, the Summer Festival and Fossil Festival.
CLIMATE
Weather in the area features 209 sunny days, annual July highs around 90 and January lows dropping into the 30s. Measurable precipitation occurs on 109 days with 50 inches of rainfall typical each year. Snow is minimal at just two inches on average annually.