Introduction to Hillsborough, North Carolina
Hillsborough, North Carolina, in Orange county, is 12 miles NW of Durham, North Carolina (center to center) and 33 miles NW of Raleigh, North Carolina. The town is located inside the Raleigh - Durham - Chapel Hill metropolitan area.
Hillsborough History
This region was originally inhabited by Native American tribes. When explorer John Lawson traveled through this area in 1701, it was known as "Occaneechi Town." William Churton, who surveyed the region in 1754, was the area's first landowner. The community was named "Corbin Town" in honor of Francis Corbin. In 1759, it was renamed "Childsburgh" after Thomas Child who served as the attorney general for the state. The community was christened "Hillsborough" in honor of the Earl of Hillsborough.
Hillsborough and Nearby Attractions
- Orange County Historical Museum
- Bennett Place State Historic Site
- Eno River State Park
- North Carolina Zoo
- Montrose Gardens
Things To Do In Hillsborough
Hillsborough's historic district, which is listed in the National Register of Historic Places, features a number of late-18th and early-19th century buildings including the Alexander Dickson House, the Burwell School, the Ruffin-Roulhac House, and the Hillsborough Presbyterian Church. Occaneechi Indian Village is a reconstructed 17th-century Native Indian settlement. The Ayr Mount Historic Site includes a restored Federal-era plantation house which showcases period antiques and fine art. The Orange County Historical Museum, located in the town, has displays of artifacts of historical importance. Historic Occoneechee Speedway Trail, which is the site of the original Occoneechee Speedway, is now a 44-acre natural area with trails and tracks. Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area offers opportunities for hiking. Montrose Gardens, another popular destination in the town, has a number of trees, rock gardens, a scree garden, and woodlands. Residents of Hillsborough also celebrate Hog Day, and the Cool Jazz Music Festival every year.
Hillsborough Transportation
Raleigh-Durham International Airport is the closest major airport.
Hillsborough Higher Education
Alamance Community College, University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, Duke University, and North Carolina Central University are some of the colleges close to Hillsborough.