Williamston was an important trade center and Roanoke River port from the 1730s. After 1882, the railroad and tobacco planting revitalized the town as a commercial market. Two National Register Historic Districts highlight 19th and early 20th century life.

Two National Register Historic Districts highlight 19th and early 20th century life and can be seen upclose on a self-guided walking tour. The town now hosts thousands of visitors each year to the Sen. Bob Martin Eastern Agricultural Center, a premiere equestrian show facility. Downtown, visitors enjoy home cooking at the R&C Restaurant and watching Main Street go by from the booths of Clark’s, featuring a soda and ice cream fountain, coffee and cookies, and packaged snacks. Try a vanilla Coke or Orangeade before stepping onto the Skewarkee Trail, a mile-long, paved former rail corridor that runs from downtown to the Roanoke River, perfect for a walk, bike ride or rollerblading. Thousands of visitors each year visit Williamston during the annual Carolina Country Stampede the last weekend in September. And the Roanoke River welcomes paddlers, bird watchers and nature lovers on the Roanoke River Paddle Trail and Canoe Camping System. Seven platforms allow visitors to spend the night in the swamp.

Asa Biggs House

This 1835 home reflects local adaptations of Federal and Greek Revival styles popular when it was built and remodeled. It was the home of Asa Biggs, a former US Senator and federal judge prominent in the politics of the day. The Biggs family remained in the home until 1862 when they fled the threat of invading Union troops.

Fort Branch Civil War Site

A significant Civil War Site overlooking the Roanoke River, Fort Branch is known as “the best preserved earthwork Civil War site east of the Mississippi.” Seven of the forts original eleven cannons are on display there. Stop by nearby Hamilton for a self-guided walking tour of its National Register Historic District featuring a Rosenwald School, Queen Anne homes and Gothic cottages, and the 1882 Gothic-Victorian St. martin’s Episcopal Church.

St. James Place Museum

This is a Restored primitive Baptist church in Robersonville. Late, clapboard Gothic revival architecture church building.

Old Martin County Courthouse

One of 12 courthouses built in the state between 1860 and 1900. It is an excellent example of an eclectic blend of Italian and Victorian elements.

Martin County Arts Council

Located: 124 Washington Street
Hours: Open for Special Events and by appointment. 252.217.6220
Martin County became part of the North Carolina Civil War Trails in 2004.

Visitor center
Free parking
On-site banquet facilities
Public restrooms
Motorcoach parking

Nearest Major Town/City: Greenville, NC (22 miles southwest)

Martin County Travel and Tourism
415 East Boulevard
Williamston, NC 27892
Website: Visit Martin County
Email: info@visitmartincounty.com

Major Program Areas: Antebellum, Civil War, Equine, Agriculture, Ecotourism, Recreation.

Education Resources

• Guided tours
• On-site interpretive activities
• Living History events
• Historic structure tours

School Tour Requirements

• Please call ahead for a variety of tour options and topics.
• Reservations required
• 45 minute to 1-hour tour, but can customize to need