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{{Distinguish|Washington County, North Carolina}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=July 2023}}
{{Infobox settlement {{Infobox settlement
|official_name = Washington, North Carolina | official_name = Washington, North Carolina
|settlement_type = ] | settlement_type = ]
|nickname = | nickname = Little Washington, Original Washington
| image_skyline = Washington, North Carolina 1.jpg
|motto = "Heart of the Inner Banks"
|image_skyline = Washingtonsailboats.png | imagesize =
| image_caption = Washington from the corner of Stewart Street and West Main Street
|imagesize =
|image_caption = Sailboats in Washington | image_flag = Washington, NC City Flag.jpg
|image_flag = | image_seal = Washington, NC Town Seal.jpg
|image_seal = | pushpin_map = North Carolina
| pushpin_label = Washington
||pushpin_map = North Carolina
| pushpin_label_position = <!-- the position of the pushpin label: left, right, top, bottom, none -->
|pushpin_label = Washington
| pushpin_map_caption = Location within the state of North Carolina
|pushpin_label_position = <!-- the position of the pushpin label: left, right, top, bottom, none -->
| pushpin_mapsize =
|pushpin_map_caption = Location within the state of North Carolina
|pushpin_mapsize = | image_map =
|image_map = | mapsize =
|mapsize = | map_caption =
|map_caption = | image_map1 =
|image_map1 = | mapsize1 =
|mapsize1 = | map_caption1 =
| subdivision_type = Country
|map_caption1 =
| subdivision_name = {{flag|United States}}
|subdivision_type = ]
| subdivision_type1 = State
|subdivision_name = ]
| subdivision_name1 = {{flag|North Carolina}}
|subdivision_type1 = ]
|subdivision_name1 = ] | subdivision_type2 = ]
|subdivision_type2 = ]R | subdivision_name2 = ]
| government_footnotes =
|subdivision_name2 = ]
| government_type = Council-Manager form of government
|government_footnotes =
| leader_title = Mayor
|government_type = Council - Manager Form of Government
|leader_title = Mayor | leader_name = Donald Sadler
| leader_title1 =
|leader_name = Archie Jennings
|leader_title1 = | leader_name1 =
| established_title =
|leader_name1 =
| established_date = 1776
|established_title =
|established_date = 1776 | unit_pref = Imperial
| area_footnotes = <ref name="TigerWebMapServer">{{cite web|title=ArcGIS REST Services Directory|url=https://tigerweb.geo.census.gov/arcgis/rest/services/TIGERweb/Places_CouSub_ConCity_SubMCD/MapServer|publisher=United States Census Bureau|accessdate=September 20, 2022}}</ref>
|unit_pref = Imperial
|area_footnotes = | area_magnitude =
| area_total_km2 = 23.37
|area_magnitude =
|area_total_km2 = 23.4 | area_land_km2 = 21.21
|area_land_km2 = 21.2 | area_water_km2 = 2.16
| area_total_sq_mi = 9.02
|area_water_km2 = 2.2
| area_land_sq_mi = 8.19
|area_total_sq_mi =
| area_water_sq_mi = 0.83
|area_land_sq_mi =
| population_as_of = ]
|area_water_sq_mi =
| population_footnotes =
|population_as_of = ]
| population_total = 9875
|population_footnotes =
| population_density_km2 = 465.55
|population_total = 9744
| population_density_sq_mi = 1205.74
|population_density_km2 = 459.4
| timezone = ]
|population_density_sq_mi =
| utc_offset = −5
|timezone = ]
|utc_offset = -5 | timezone_DST = EDT
| utc_offset_DST = −4
|timezone_DST = EDT
| elevation_footnotes = <ref name=gnis/>
|utc_offset_DST = -4
|elevation_footnotes = | elevation_ft = 7
| coordinates = {{coord|35|33|13|N|77|03|16|W|type:city_region:US-NC|display=it}}
|elevation_m = 3
| postal_code_type = ]
|elevation_ft = 10
|coordinates_display = inline,title | postal_code = 27889
|coordinates_type = region:US_type:city | area_code = ]
| area_code_type = ]
|latd = 35 |latm = 33 |lats = 13 |latNS = N
| blank_name = ]
|longd = 77 |longm = 3 |longs = 7 |longEW = W
| blank_info = 37-71220<ref name="GR2">{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov|publisher=]|access-date=2008-01-31|title=U.S. Census website}}</ref>
|postal_code_type = ]
| blank1_name = ] feature ID
|postal_code = 27889
| blank1_info = 2405682<ref name=gnis>{{GNIS|2405682}}</ref>
|area_code = ]
| website = www.washingtonnc.gov
|blank_name = ]
|blank_info = 37-71220{{GR|2}} | footnotes =
| pop_est_as_of =
|blank1_name = ] feature ID
| pop_est_footnotes =
|blank1_info = 0996823{{GR|3}}
| population_est =
|website = {{URL|www.washington-nc.com}}
|footnotes =
}} }}
'''Washington''', commonly known as '''Little Washington''' (to distinguish it from ]<ref name = official>{{cite web| title=Frequently Asked Questions| url=http://www.littlewashingtonnc.com/about-us/faq| work=City of Washington Official Website| accessdate=30 January 2014}}</ref>), is a city in ], ]. The population was 9,744 at the 2010 census.<ref name="Census 2010">{{cite web| url=http://factfinder2.census.gov/bkmk/table/1.0/en/DEC/10_DP/G001/1600000US3771220| title=Geographic Identifiers: 2010 Demographic Profile Data (G001): Washington city, North Carolina| publisher=U.S. Census Bureau, American Factfinder| accessdate=February 5, 2014}}</ref> It is the ] of ].{{GR|6}} The closest major city is ],{{GR|6}} approximately {{convert|20|mi}} to the west.


'''Washington''' is a city in ], United States, located on the northern bank of the ]. The population was 9,875 at the ].<ref name="2020 census">{{cite web |title=Washington city, North Carolina - Census Bureau Profile |url=https://data.census.gov/profile/Washington_city,_North_Carolina?g=160XX00US3771220 |publisher=United States Census Bureau |access-date=26 January 2024}}</ref> It is the ] of Beaufort County.<ref name="GR6">{{cite web|url=http://www.naco.org/Counties/Pages/FindACounty.aspx|access-date=2011-06-07|title=Find a County|publisher=National Association of Counties}}</ref> It is commonly known as "Original Washington" or "Little Washington" to distinguish it from ]<ref>{{Cite web|title=Washington {{!}} Beaufort County North Carolina|url=https://co.beaufort.nc.us/municipalities/washington|access-date=2021-05-14|website=co.beaufort.nc.us}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Sutton Anders|first=Robin|date=Jul 22, 2020|title=5 Ways to Spend a Weekend in Little Washington|url=https://www.ourstate.com/a-weekend-in-little-washington/|website=Our State Magazine}}</ref> The closest major city is ], approximately {{convert|20|mi}} to the west.
Established in 1776 on land donated by Col. ], Washington is the first city named after ], the first president of the United States.<ref name = official/>

Established in 1776 on land donated by Col. ], Washington is the first city named after ], the first president of the United States.<ref name="official">{{cite web|title=Frequently Asked Questions|url=http://www.littlewashingtonnc.com/about-us/faq|access-date=30 January 2014|work=City of Washington Official Website}}</ref>

==History==
]
The settlement at the current location of the city was founded in the 1770s by James Bonner on his land and was known as '''Forks of the Tar'''. In 1776, it was renamed Washington. During the ], Washington served as a supply port when major neighboring ports were under British siege.<ref name="hist">{{cite web|url=http://www.washingtonnc.gov/history|title=History|publisher=City of Washington, North Carolina|access-date=March 12, 2014|archive-date=July 14, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160714023304/http://www.washingtonnc.gov/history|url-status=dead}}</ref>

==Geography==
===Climate===
Washington has a humid subtropical climate.
{{Weather box |location = Washington, North Carolina (1981–2010 normals),{{efn|Mean monthly maxima and minima (i.e. the expected highest and lowest temperature readings at any point during the year or given month) calculated based on data at said location from 1981 to 2010.}} |single line = Y
|width=auto
|collapsed =
|Jan high F = 53.8
|Feb high F = 56.9
|Mar high F = 63.8
|Apr high F = 72.8
|May high F = 80.5
|Jun high F = 87.3
|Jul high F = 89.7
|Aug high F = 88.3
|Sep high F = 83.2
|Oct high F = 74.1
|Nov high F = 65.6
|Dec high F = 56.8
|year high F =72.7
|Jan low F = 34.2
|Feb low F = 36.4
|Mar low F = 41.9
|Apr low F = 50.3
|May low F = 59.3
|Jun low F = 68.5
|Jul low F = 72.5
|Aug low F = 70.9
|Sep low F = 65.4
|Oct low F = 53.5
|Nov low F = 44.5
|Dec low F = 35.7
|year low F = 52.8

|precipitation colour = green
|Jan precipitation inch = 3.85
|Feb precipitation inch = 3.32
|Mar precipitation inch = 4.22
|Apr precipitation inch = 3.14
|May precipitation inch = 4.11
|Jun precipitation inch = 4.44
|Jul precipitation inch = 5.45
|Aug precipitation inch = 5.22
|Sep precipitation inch = 5.81
|Oct precipitation inch = 3.28
|Nov precipitation inch = 3.2
|Dec precipitation inch = 3.26
|year precipitation inch= 49.3

|Jul snow inch = 0
|Aug snow inch = 0
|Sep snow inch = 0
|Oct snow inch = 0
|Nov snow inch = 0
|Dec snow inch = 0.8
|Jan snow inch = 0.5
|Feb snow inch = 0.4
|Mar snow inch = 0.2
|Apr snow inch = 0.1
|May snow inch = 0
|Jun snow inch = 0
|year snow inch= 2

|source 1 = ] (Monthly Climate Normals)<ref name ="xmACIS2 ,1981-2010 Climate Normals" >
{{cite web |url = https://xmacis.rcc-acis.org/
|title = NOAA 1981-2010 Climate Normals
|publisher = ] |access-date=2018-01-19}}
</ref>
}}


==Demographics== ==Demographics==
{{US Census population
As of the ]{{GR|2}} of 2010, there were 9,744 people and 4,246 households in the city. The ] was 1,190.0 people per square mile (459.4/km²). There were 4,754 housing units at an average density of 580.5 per square mile (224.1/km²). The racial composition of the city was: 49.0% ], 45.50% ] or ], 5.5% ] or ], 0.5% ], 0.2% ], 0.1% ] or ], and 1.50% ].
|1850= 2015
]
|1860= 1599
There were 4,754 households out of which 22.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 37.3% were ] living together, 21.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 37.8% were non-families. 33.5% of all households were made up of individuals and 15.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.21 and the average family size was 2.93.
|1870= 2094
|1880= 2462
|1890= 3545
|1900= 4842
|1910= 6211
|1920= 6314
|1930= 7035
|1940= 8569
|1950= 9698
|1960= 9939
|1970= 8961
|1980= 8418
|1990= 9075
|2000= 9583
|2010= 9744
|2020= 9875
|footnote=U.S. Decennial Census<ref name="DecennialCensus">{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/decennial-census.html|title=Census of Population and Housing|publisher=Census.gov|access-date=June 4, 2015}}</ref>
}}

===2020 census===
{| class="wikitable"
|+Washington Racial Composition<ref>{{Cite web|title=Explore Census Data|url=https://data.census.gov/cedsci/table?g=1600000US3771220&tid=DECENNIALPL2020.P2|access-date=2021-12-07|website=data.census.gov}}</ref>
!Race
!Num.
!Perc.
|-
|]
|4,483
|45.4%
|-
|]
|4,252
|43.06%
|-
|]
|20
|0.2%
|-
|]
|73
|0.74%
|-
|]
|1
|0.01%
|-
|]
|332
|3.36%
|-
|] or ]
|714
|7.23%
|}
As of the ], there were 9,875 people, 4,038 households, and 2,251 families residing in the city.

===2010 census===
As of the ]<ref name="GR2" /> of 2010, there were 9,744 people and 4,246 households in the city. The population density was {{convert|1,190.0|PD/sqmi|PD/km2|sp=us|adj=off}}. There were 4,754 housing units at an average density of {{convert|580.5|/sqmi|/km2|sp=us|adj=off}}. The racial composition of the city was: 49.0% ], 45.50% ] or ], 5.5% ] or ], 0.5% ], 0.2% ], 0.1% ] or ], and 1.50% ].

There were 4,754 households, out of which 22.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 37.3% were married couples living together, 21.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 37.8% were non-families. 33.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 15.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.21 and the average family size was 2.93.


In the city the population was spread out with 24.7% under the age of 18, 8.6% from 18 to 24, 24.5% from 25 to 44, 22.6% from 45 to 64, and 19.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females there were 77.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 70.8 males. In the city, the age distribution of the population shows 24.7% under the age of 18, 8.6% from 18 to 24, 24.5% from 25 to 44, 22.6% from 45 to 64, and 19.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females, there were 77.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 70.8 males.


The median income for a household in the city was $22,057, and the median income for a family was $30,280. Males had a median income of $26,053 versus $21,641 for females. The ] for the city was $14,319. About 23.3% of families and 28.7% of the population were below the ], including 42.8% of those under age 18 and 19.3% of those age 65 or over. The median income for a household in the city was $22,057, and the median income for a family was $30,280. Males had a median income of $26,053 versus $21,641 for females. The ] for the city was $14,319. About 23.3% of families and 28.7% of the population were below the ], including 42.8% of those under age 18 and 19.3% of those age 65 or over.


==Arts and culture==
==Transportation==
]
===Freeways and primary designated routes===
]
''']'''
* ], dubbed Pactolus Highway, runs roughly east-west through Washington, following John Small Avenue and Fifth Street.
* ] runs roughly north-south, following Carolina Avenue and North Bridge Street. South of Washington the road crosses the ] over the ].


Washington has a range of historical buildings and landmarks, with some dating back to colonial and Victorian eras.<ref name="tour">{{cite news |last1=Rumley |first1=Vail Stewart |title=Historic walking tour a great way to experience Washington |url=https://www.thewashingtondailynews.com/2018/04/19/historic-walking-tour-a-great-way-to-experience-washington/ |access-date=5 August 2018 |publisher=Washington Daily News |date=19 April 2018}}</ref> Historic sites include the ], ], ], ], ], ], and ] are listed on the ].<ref name="nris">{{NRISref|version=2010a}}</ref>
''']'''

* ] runs east-west through Washington, following River Road and Main Street. The road terminates at U.S. Route 17.
A Farmer's and Artisan's Market is held regularly on the town's green areas on the waterfront.

The ] along the ] holds more than 200 scientific and historic exhibits relating to the ecology of North Carolina's estuaries, the ]-Pamlico River and ]. The Estuarium also includes a 3/4 mile boardwalk along the Pamlico River.

The Turnage Theatre, a restored building with a historic ] theater and movie theater, reopened in the downtown area in 2014 and hosts plays and other live entertainment.<ref>{{cite news |title=Arts of the Pamlico celebrates mortgage pay off on Turnage Theatre |url=http://www.witn.com/content/news/Local-arts-group-to-celebrate-major-milestone-this-week-484450661.html |access-date=5 August 2018 |publisher=WITN |date=7 June 2018}}</ref> Between 1993 and 2017 a downtown music and art festival called "Music in the Streets" was held every third Friday during summer to attract people to downtown shops and restaurants.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Rumley |first1=Vail Stewart |title=WHDA suspends Music in the Streets |url=https://www.thewashingtondailynews.com/2017/02/21/whda-suspends-music-in-the-streets/ |access-date=5 August 2018 |publisher=Washington Daily News |date=21 February 2017}}</ref>

A cannonbalI from the ] attack on Washington during the ] is displayed in an attorney's office on Water Street, and many nearby towns also contain Civil War artifacts and museums. Civil War ] meet in the outskirts of Washington every year.

BHM Regional Library operates the Washington Public Library.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://bhmlib.org/washington/|title=Washington|date=12 October 2016 |publisher=BHM Regional Library|accessdate=2021-04-13}}</ref>

==Education==
Public education is administered by ]. Schools located in Washington include:
* Early College High School<ref>{{cite web | title = Early College High School | publisher = Beaufort County Schools | url = https://www.beaufort.k12.nc.us/schools/early-college-high-school | accessdate = June 18, 2022}}</ref>
* Eastern Elementary School<ref>{{cite web | title = Eastern Elementary School | publisher = Beaufort County Schools | url =https://www.beaufort.k12.nc.us/schools/eastern-elementary-school | accessdate = June 18, 2022}}</ref>
* J.C. Tayloe Elementary School<ref>{{cite web | title = J.C. Tayloe Elementary School | publisher = Beaufort County Schools | url = https://www.beaufort.k12.nc.us/schools/j-c-tayloe-elementary-school | accessdate = June 18, 2022}}</ref>
* John Small Elementary School<ref>{{cite web | title = John Small Elementary School | publisher = Beaufort County Schools | url = https://www.beaufort.k12.nc.us/schools/john-small-elementary-school | accessdate = June 18, 2022}}</ref>
* P.S. Jones Middle School<ref>{{cite web | title = P.S. Jones Middle School | publisher = Beaufort County Schools | url = https://www.beaufort.k12.nc.us/schools/p-s-jones-middle-school | accessdate = June 18, 2022}}</ref>
* Washington High School<ref>{{cite web | title = Washington High School | publisher = Beaufort County Schools | url = https://www.beaufort.k12.nc.us/schools/washington-high-school | accessdate = June 18, 2022}}</ref>


==Media== ==Media==
===Print=== ===Print===
The '']'' is the local newspaper. As of September 2007, the ''Daily News'' had a circulation of 8,736 Monday through Saturday, and 8,969 on Sunday. The ''Daily News'' was awarded the ] for Meritorious Public Service in 1990 for a series of stories concerning local water contamination, making it the smallest daily newspaper in history to win the coveted award. The '']'' was awarded the ] for Meritorious Public Service in 1990 for a series of stories concerning local water contamination, making it the smallest daily newspaper in history to win the award.{{citation needed|date=June 2022}}<ref>{{Cite web |date=16 June 2024 |title=The Pulitzer Prizes: Public Service |url=https://www.pulitzer.org/prize-winners-by-category/204 |access-date=16 June 2024 |website=The Pulitzer Prizes}}</ref>


In 2009, the newspaper '''' went from a bi-monthly print publication to an online publication. In 2009, the newspaper ''The Beaufort Observer'' went from a bi-monthly print publication to an online publication.

Beaufort County Community College, located in Washington, publishes '''', a digital magazine dedicated to preserving North Carolina's coastal heritage.


===Television=== ===Television===
]
The following stations are licensed to Washington and/or have significant operations and viewers in the city:


* ] (7, ] & ] on DT2) licensed to Washington, owned by ] ] is licensed to Washington.{{citation needed|date=June 2022}}
* ] (9, ] & ] on DT2) licensed to Greenville, owned by ]
* ] (12, ]) licensed to ], owned by ]
* ] (8,14, ]) licensed to Greenville, owned by Esteem Broadcasting, satellite of ]
* ] (25, ]), licensed to Greenville, owned by the ], satellite of ]
* ] (38, ]/]) licensed to Greenville, owned by ]


===Radio=== ===Radio===
The following radio stations are licensed to Washington and surrounding areas. The following radio stations are licensed to Washington:
* 93.3 FM:] Bob 93.3 * 93.3 FM:] Bob 93.3
* 98.3 FM:] 98.3 The Bridge * 97.5 FM:] 97.5 The Bridge
* 95.1 FM:] Your Country 95.1 WRNS
* 101.1 FM:] 101.1 SAM FM
* 101.9 FM:] 101.9 Kiss FM
* 103.7 FM:] 103.7 WTIB The Talk
* 94.3 FM:] Star 94.3
* 99.5 FM: ] 99.5 The X
* 104.5 FM: ] The Vine Connection
* 1320 AM: ] Washington Original Gospel Station * 1320 AM: ] Washington Original Gospel Station


== Features == ==Notable people==
*], NBA player for the ]
{{Advert|section|date=October 2008}}
* ], ] ] from ] (1940–1965)
This mid-sized rural town has been called the "Heart of the ]". It has a range of historical buildings and landmarks that add to its architectural interest, with some dating back to colonial times. A self-guided Historic Walking Tour allows visitors to explore the neighborhoods. Homes of Victorian design, Arts and Crafts, and traditional early-20th century dwellings stand side-by-side on sidewalks lined with ] trees. Condominiums and townhouses have been constructed on the city's waterfront to bring residents back to the river, the town's starting place. A Farmer's and Artisan's Market is held regularly on the town's green areas on the waterfront.
* ], justice of the ] from 1905 to 1920
* ], ] (1821–1839) and US Minister to Russia
* ], former NFL player
* ], ] during ], and ] under ] Administration.
* ], pioneer in American medicine and women's health. Studied at the ] in 1871, and practiced in ].
* ], First Lady of North Carolina
* ], actor, best remembered for his playing the mayor in ] and Mr. Robinson in ]
* ], science fiction writer, film producer and screenwriter, magazine publisher.
* ], playwright and the father of film pioneers ] and ] and the grandfather of the dancer and choreographer ]
* ], former NFL player
* ], nine-time NBA All-Star, noted as one of the best dunkers in NBA history, earning the nickname "The Human Highlight Film." In 2006, Wilkins was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.
* ], Karateka and mixed martial artist
*], MLB player for the ].


==Notes==
]
{{reflist|group=lower-alpha}}
The North Carolina Estuarium, located on the ], portrays the ecology of North Carolina's estuaries. The ]-Pamlico River and ] are featured in the more than 200 scientific and historic exhibits. In addition, a scenic 3/4 mile boardwalk takes visitors out along the Pamlico River. Washington features fishing and boating along the Pamlico River.

The Turnage Theatre, a restored historic ] and movie theater, has opened in the downtown area and hosts plays and other types of live entertainment. Downtown restaurants benefit from a monthly downtown music and art festival called "Music in the Streets". The Beaufort County Arts Council, founded in 1972, is located in the restored Atlantic Coastline Railroad Station. It offers cultural programs including an annual juried fine arts show, a holiday arts and crafts show, a student art show, year-round exhibitions in the adjacent Washington Civic Center gallery, a series of free public concerts, an annual art camp for youth, workshops, lectures, and organized trips to attend cultural events throughout the region.

Evidence of the ] attack on Washington during the ] is seen by the cannon ball shot in an attorney's office located on historic Water Street. Confederates ships were shelling from the Tar River and forced the Union soldiers out. Both Union and Confederate soldiers burned many buildings as they retreated. Civil War ] meet in the outskirts of Washington every year. Many nearby towns also contain Civil War artifacts and museums.

==Notable natives==
*], ] ] from ]
*], Washington-born playwright and the father of film pioneers ] and ] and the grandfather of the dancer and choreographer ]
*], actor, best remembered for his playing the part of the mayor in ]
*], was a nine-time NBA All-Star, and one of the best dunkers in NBA history, earning the nickname "The Human Highlight Film." In 2006, Wilkins was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.
*], Major League third baseman for the Washington Nationals baseball team, 2005-present


==References== ==References==
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{{Commons category}} {{Commons category}}
* *
* *
* {{Cite NIE|wstitle=Washington (North Carolina)|short=x|display=Washington. The county-seat of Beaufort County, N. C}}
*


{{Beaufort County, North Carolina}} {{Beaufort County, North Carolina}}
{{North Carolina county seats}}


{{Authority control}}

]
]
] ]
] ]
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Latest revision as of 17:12, 30 November 2024

Not to be confused with Washington County, North Carolina.

City in North Carolina, United States
Washington, North Carolina
City
Washington from the corner of Stewart Street and West Main StreetWashington from the corner of Stewart Street and West Main Street
Flag of Washington, North CarolinaFlagOfficial seal of Washington, North CarolinaSeal
Nickname(s): Little Washington, Original Washington
Washington is located in North CarolinaWashingtonWashingtonLocation within the state of North Carolina
Coordinates: 35°33′13″N 77°03′16″W / 35.55361°N 77.05444°W / 35.55361; -77.05444
Country United States
State North Carolina
CountyBeaufort
Government
 • TypeCouncil-Manager form of government
 • MayorDonald Sadler
Area
 • Total9.02 sq mi (23.37 km)
 • Land8.19 sq mi (21.21 km)
 • Water0.83 sq mi (2.16 km)
Elevation7 ft (2 m)
Population
 • Total9,875
 • Density1,205.74/sq mi (465.55/km)
Time zoneUTC−5 (Eastern (EST))
 • Summer (DST)UTC−4 (EDT)
ZIP Code27889
Area code252
FIPS code37-71220
GNIS feature ID2405682
Websitewww.washingtonnc.gov

Washington is a city in Beaufort County, North Carolina, United States, located on the northern bank of the Pamlico River. The population was 9,875 at the 2020 census. It is the county seat of Beaufort County. It is commonly known as "Original Washington" or "Little Washington" to distinguish it from Washington, D.C. The closest major city is Greenville, approximately 20 miles (32 km) to the west.

Established in 1776 on land donated by Col. James Bonner, Washington is the first city named after George Washington, the first president of the United States.

History

Washington Municipal Building

The settlement at the current location of the city was founded in the 1770s by James Bonner on his land and was known as Forks of the Tar. In 1776, it was renamed Washington. During the American Revolutionary War, Washington served as a supply port when major neighboring ports were under British siege.

Geography

Climate

Washington has a humid subtropical climate.

Climate data for Washington, North Carolina (1981–2010 normals),
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Mean daily maximum °F (°C) 53.8
(12.1)
56.9
(13.8)
63.8
(17.7)
72.8
(22.7)
80.5
(26.9)
87.3
(30.7)
89.7
(32.1)
88.3
(31.3)
83.2
(28.4)
74.1
(23.4)
65.6
(18.7)
56.8
(13.8)
72.7
(22.6)
Mean daily minimum °F (°C) 34.2
(1.2)
36.4
(2.4)
41.9
(5.5)
50.3
(10.2)
59.3
(15.2)
68.5
(20.3)
72.5
(22.5)
70.9
(21.6)
65.4
(18.6)
53.5
(11.9)
44.5
(6.9)
35.7
(2.1)
52.8
(11.6)
Average precipitation inches (mm) 3.85
(98)
3.32
(84)
4.22
(107)
3.14
(80)
4.11
(104)
4.44
(113)
5.45
(138)
5.22
(133)
5.81
(148)
3.28
(83)
3.2
(81)
3.26
(83)
49.3
(1,250)
Average snowfall inches (cm) 0.5
(1.3)
0.4
(1.0)
0.2
(0.51)
0.1
(0.25)
0
(0)
0
(0)
0
(0)
0
(0)
0
(0)
0
(0)
0
(0)
0.8
(2.0)
2
(5.1)
Source: NOAA (Monthly Climate Normals)

Demographics

Historical population
CensusPop.Note
18502,015
18601,599−20.6%
18702,09431.0%
18802,46217.6%
18903,54544.0%
19004,84236.6%
19106,21128.3%
19206,3141.7%
19307,03511.4%
19408,56921.8%
19509,69813.2%
19609,9392.5%
19708,961−9.8%
19808,418−6.1%
19909,0757.8%
20009,5835.6%
20109,7441.7%
20209,8751.3%
U.S. Decennial Census

2020 census

Washington Racial Composition
Race Num. Perc.
White 4,483 45.4%
Black or African American 4,252 43.06%
Native American 20 0.2%
Asian 73 0.74%
Pacific Islander 1 0.01%
Other/Mixed 332 3.36%
Hispanic or Latino 714 7.23%

As of the 2020 United States Census, there were 9,875 people, 4,038 households, and 2,251 families residing in the city.

2010 census

As of the census of 2010, there were 9,744 people and 4,246 households in the city. The population density was 1,190.0 inhabitants per square mile (459.5/km). There were 4,754 housing units at an average density of 580.5 per square mile (224.1/km). The racial composition of the city was: 49.0% White, 45.50% Black or African American, 5.5% Hispanic or Latino American, 0.5% Asian American, 0.2% Native American, 0.1% Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander, and 1.50% two or more races.

There were 4,754 households, out of which 22.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 37.3% were married couples living together, 21.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 37.8% were non-families. 33.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 15.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.21 and the average family size was 2.93.

In the city, the age distribution of the population shows 24.7% under the age of 18, 8.6% from 18 to 24, 24.5% from 25 to 44, 22.6% from 45 to 64, and 19.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females, there were 77.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 70.8 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $22,057, and the median income for a family was $30,280. Males had a median income of $26,053 versus $21,641 for females. The per capita income for the city was $14,319. About 23.3% of families and 28.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 42.8% of those under age 18 and 19.3% of those age 65 or over.

Arts and culture

Map of Washington during the American Civil War
North Carolina Estuarium

Washington has a range of historical buildings and landmarks, with some dating back to colonial and Victorian eras. Historic sites include the Bank of Washington, West End Branch, Beaufort County Courthouse, Bowers-Tripp House, North Market Street Historic District, Rosedale, Washington Historic District, and Zion Episcopal Church are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

A Farmer's and Artisan's Market is held regularly on the town's green areas on the waterfront.

The North Carolina Estuarium along the Pamlico River holds more than 200 scientific and historic exhibits relating to the ecology of North Carolina's estuaries, the Tar-Pamlico River and Pamlico Sound. The Estuarium also includes a 3/4 mile boardwalk along the Pamlico River.

The Turnage Theatre, a restored building with a historic vaudeville theater and movie theater, reopened in the downtown area in 2014 and hosts plays and other live entertainment. Between 1993 and 2017 a downtown music and art festival called "Music in the Streets" was held every third Friday during summer to attract people to downtown shops and restaurants.

A cannonbalI from the Union attack on Washington during the American Civil War is displayed in an attorney's office on Water Street, and many nearby towns also contain Civil War artifacts and museums. Civil War re-enactors meet in the outskirts of Washington every year.

BHM Regional Library operates the Washington Public Library.

Education

Public education is administered by Beaufort County Schools. Schools located in Washington include:

  • Early College High School
  • Eastern Elementary School
  • J.C. Tayloe Elementary School
  • John Small Elementary School
  • P.S. Jones Middle School
  • Washington High School

Media

Print

The Washington Daily News was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Meritorious Public Service in 1990 for a series of stories concerning local water contamination, making it the smallest daily newspaper in history to win the award.

In 2009, the newspaper The Beaufort Observer went from a bi-monthly print publication to an online publication.

Television

Beaufort County Courthouse

WITN is licensed to Washington.

Radio

The following radio stations are licensed to Washington:

  • 93.3 FM:WERO Bob 93.3
  • 97.5 FM:WLGT 97.5 The Bridge
  • 1320 AM: WTOW Washington Original Gospel Station

Notable people

Notes

  1. Mean monthly maxima and minima (i.e. the expected highest and lowest temperature readings at any point during the year or given month) calculated based on data at said location from 1981 to 2010.

References

  1. "ArcGIS REST Services Directory". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved September 20, 2022.
  2. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Washington, North Carolina
  3. ^ "U.S. Census website". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved January 31, 2008.
  4. "Washington city, North Carolina - Census Bureau Profile". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved January 26, 2024.
  5. "Find a County". National Association of Counties. Retrieved June 7, 2011.
  6. "Washington | Beaufort County North Carolina". co.beaufort.nc.us. Retrieved May 14, 2021.
  7. Sutton Anders, Robin (July 22, 2020). "5 Ways to Spend a Weekend in Little Washington". Our State Magazine.
  8. "Frequently Asked Questions". City of Washington Official Website. Retrieved January 30, 2014.
  9. "History". City of Washington, North Carolina. Archived from the original on July 14, 2016. Retrieved March 12, 2014.
  10. "NOAA 1981-2010 Climate Normals". NOAA Regional Climate Centers. Retrieved January 19, 2018.
  11. "Census of Population and Housing". Census.gov. Retrieved June 4, 2015.
  12. "Explore Census Data". data.census.gov. Retrieved December 7, 2021.
  13. Rumley, Vail Stewart (April 19, 2018). "Historic walking tour a great way to experience Washington". Washington Daily News. Retrieved August 5, 2018.
  14. "National Register Information System". National Register of Historic Places. National Park Service. July 9, 2010.
  15. "Arts of the Pamlico celebrates mortgage pay off on Turnage Theatre". WITN. June 7, 2018. Retrieved August 5, 2018.
  16. Rumley, Vail Stewart (February 21, 2017). "WHDA suspends Music in the Streets". Washington Daily News. Retrieved August 5, 2018.
  17. "Washington". BHM Regional Library. October 12, 2016. Retrieved April 13, 2021.
  18. "Early College High School". Beaufort County Schools. Retrieved June 18, 2022.
  19. "Eastern Elementary School". Beaufort County Schools. Retrieved June 18, 2022.
  20. "J.C. Tayloe Elementary School". Beaufort County Schools. Retrieved June 18, 2022.
  21. "John Small Elementary School". Beaufort County Schools. Retrieved June 18, 2022.
  22. "P.S. Jones Middle School". Beaufort County Schools. Retrieved June 18, 2022.
  23. "Washington High School". Beaufort County Schools. Retrieved June 18, 2022.
  24. "The Pulitzer Prizes: Public Service". The Pulitzer Prizes. June 16, 2024. Retrieved June 16, 2024.

External links

Municipalities and communities of Beaufort County, North Carolina, United States
County seat: Washington
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