Introduction to Washington, North Carolina
Washington, North Carolina is 18 miles E of Greenville, North Carolina (center to center) and 90 miles E of Raleigh, North Carolina.
Washington History
The community of Washington was laid out in 1775 by Colonel James Bonner, who named the settlement "Washington" in honor of his commander-in-chief, General George Washington. It was the first community to be named after the United States' first president. It was incorporated in 1782, and became the seat of Beaufort County three years later. In the 1780s, the community developed as a regional shipping center, largely because of its location at the confluence of inland and coastal rivers. By 1784, Washington was recognized as a port. During the Revolutionary War, the city served as a federal supply outpost.
Washington and Nearby Attractions
- Aurora Fossil Museum
- Historic Bath State Historic Site
- Goose Creek State Park
- North Carolina Estuarium
- North Carolina Aquarium - Pine Knoll Shores
Things To Do In Washington
Exhibits in the Aurora Fossil Museum depict the paleontology and geology of the North Carolina coastal plains. East Carolina Village of Yesteryear includes a schoolhouse, a country store, and a church, and also features artifacts which reflect life in the region during the 19th and 20th century. Historic Bath State Historic Site, and Greenville Museum of Art are also close by. The North Carolina Aquarium - Pine Knoll Shores, situated in the Theodore Roosevelt Natural Area, is a popular attraction. Visitors to Goose Creek State Park can enjoy boating, swimming, camping, hiking, fishing, and picnicking. The North Carolina Estuarium, located in the city, houses over 200 historic and scientific exhibits that highlight the ecology of North Carolina's estuaries. The community celebrates the Summer Festival, and the International Migratory Bird Day Festival every year.
Washington Transportation
Raleigh-Durham International Airport is the nearest major airport.
Washington Higher Education
Washington is home to the Beaufort County Community College. East Carolina University, Pitt Community College, and Coastal Carolina Community College are the other nearby colleges.
