Searching for the Elusive White Squirrel
By Dani Halliday
THE HIGHWAY 64 PROJECT
The Coastal Plain Region
Rocky Mount
Rocky Mount is a recognizable and convenient spot for travelers to stop due to the intersection of Interstate 95 and Highway 64, as well as being on the way to the Outer Banks. The fifteenth largest city in North Carolina, Rocky Mount has a population of 57,500. Fully equipped with a large sports complex, unique restaurants, a restored mill and close proximity to the Tar River, Rocky Mount is on the rise.
Robersonville
Tuscarora and Morotock Native Americans first inhabited Robersonville, North Carolina, which is found in the Inner Banks region in Martin County, North Carolina. Yet, the town was officially established later in 1872. Robersonville has a population of about 1,731 with 720 households. The town motto reads “A Town that Cares”, and the town wholly embraces this motto with lovely diners, the St. James Place Museum and the National Wildlife Refuge.
Williamston
Located by and affiliated with the Roanoke River, Williamston has a vibrant outdoor community. A population of 5,200, Williamston offers unique restaurants, boating and camping, and historic buildings from the Civil Rights Movement. With such a small population, their slogan ‘Easy Living with Hometown Values’ aptly fits, and Williamston strives to create relationships between all members of the community.
Jamesville
Jamesville is a quaint town nestled along the Roanoke River in eastern North Carolina. Incorporated in 1785, the town was built around agriculture, milling and fishing industries. With a population of around 418, the town is small but well-known for its annual Herring Festival, a beloved event since its beginning in 1949. Visitors traveling on Highway 64 can stop by Jamesville for fresh air, beautiful riverside views and family-friendly eateries.
Plymouth
Plymouth was originally a thriving port town due to its location to the Roanoke River, and now utilizes its proximity to water for educational and tourism purposes. Main attractions include the Port O’ Plymouth History/Civil War Museum, the Roanoke River Lighthouse, Maritime Museum, a riverfront boardwalk, and the Rail Switch Nature Trail. With a population of 4,000, Plymouth is another small and vibrant town along Highway 64.
Columbia
Originally named Elizabethtown established in 1793 on the banks of the Scuppernong River, present day Columbia (renamed in 1801) has been nominated several times for the annual American Dream Town. Victorian charm, historic preservation and ecological conservation makes this town a wonderful place to visit or stay. Its proximity to the river provides tourism opportunities such as the Scuppernong River Festival and River Town Christmas event.
Manteo
Famous for The Lost Colony, Manteo brings in thousands of tourists each year to visit the Waterside Theatre’s iconic production. Drama aside, attractions include the Elizabethan Gardens, the Roanoke Island Festival Park, the North Carolina Aquarium, the Dare County Civil War Heritage Trail and the Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse. Just 15 minutes from the Outer Banks, Manteo is a popular destination for beach bound visitors.
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