The Importance of Maps in Understanding History

When we think about history, we often picture events, people, and wars. However, maps are an essential tool for understanding the past. They show us how land was used, how people moved, and how borders changed over time. In 1750, North Carolina was a British colony, and the map of its counties looked vastly different than it does today.

Navigating North Carolina in 1750

The map of North Carolina in 1750 showed a colony with seven counties: Bertie, Bladen, Craven, Granville, Hyde, New Hanover, and Onslow. These counties were named after prominent British officials, and their borders were based on natural landmarks such as rivers and mountains.

Bertie County

Bertie County was one of the largest counties in North Carolina in 1750. It was named after James Bertie, a member of the British Parliament. The county’s borders stretched from the Albemarle Sound to the Virginia border, and it was home to many wealthy plantation owners.

Bladen County

Bladen County was named after Martin Bladen, a British official who served as a Commissioner of Trade and Plantations. The county’s borders extended from the Cape Fear River to the South Carolina border. It was known for its vast forests and fertile farmland.

Craven County

Craven County was named after William Craven, the first Earl of Craven. The county’s borders stretched from the Pamlico Sound to the South Carolina border. It was a significant trade center, with its county seat located in New Bern.

Granville County

Granville County was named after John Carteret, the first Earl Granville. The county’s borders extended from the Virginia border to the Tar River. It was known for its rich soil and abundant natural resources.

Hyde County

Hyde County was named after Edward Hyde, the first Earl of Clarendon. The county’s borders stretched from the Pamlico Sound to the Atlantic Ocean. It was a significant center for fishing and shipping.

New Hanover County

New Hanover County was named after George I of Great Britain, who was also the Elector of Hanover. The county’s borders extended from the Cape Fear River to the Atlantic Ocean. It was a significant port town, with its county seat located in Wilmington.

Onslow County

Onslow County was named after Arthur Onslow, the Speaker of the House of Commons. The county’s borders stretched from the New River to the Atlantic Ocean. It was known for its abundant natural resources, including timber and naval stores.

The Legacy of North Carolina’s 1750 Map

The map of North Carolina’s counties in 1750 tells us much about the state’s early history. It reminds us that North Carolina was a British colony, and that the state’s borders were shaped by natural landmarks. It also shows us that the state was a significant trade center, with ports located in New Bern and Wilmington. Exploring this map allows us to see how North Carolina has changed over time. Today, the state has 100 counties, and its borders have been shaped by both natural landmarks and political decisions. However, by studying the map of North Carolina’s counties in 1750, we can appreciate the state’s early history and the legacy it has left behind.