
Searching for the Elusive White Squirrel
By Dani Halliday
THE HIGHWAY 64 PROJECT
Introduction to Williamston
Sarah Impagliazzo
Located in the coastal plain of North Carolina, Williamston lies along the Roanoke river. Settlement here dates back to the 1730s. It was originally called the “Tar landings” due to it being a very important shipping point for tar and other forest products. In 1779 it officially became known as Williamston.
Williamston's history can be seen in its historic district, which features numerous historic structures and different architecture. Some of the buildings that are featured are Federal, Late Gothic Revival, and Colonial Revival styles. It has banks, courthouses, theaters, and plenty more buildings that have helped place it in the National Register of Historic Places. They also offer various things to do. In the summer of 2025 they hosted the Carolina Stampede Music Fest, which offered live music, craft vendors, food trucks, and another way for the community to all come together. Another place to visit is Deadwood, a western theme park. They have various activities year round but all do plenty of holiday themed rides from Halloween to Christmas. Besides cute train rides and roller coasters for kids they also have mini golf and their own smokehouse. After spending a day at Deadwood you can be sure to get a good meal at their own restaurant where they serve premier steak and various types of meat.
Williamston remains a small town with a calm atmosphere. It has a strong sense of its history and community, and it is a great place to visit if you ever find yourself nearby.







