History By The Roanoke

From the Sally-Billy House ca. 1810 and the Royal White Hart Masonic Lodge, ca. 1820's, Halifax County's architecture has been preserved. The Mill Villages in Roanoke Rapids, built in the 1890's, are eastern NC's principal concentration of textile mill architecture. If your interests are in railroads, visit the Atlantic Coast Line Passenger Station built in the 1920's in Enfield. The Weldon Freight Depot, ca. 1840, is NC's oldest railroad building.

Much of Halifax County --its geography and its history-- was defined by the Roanoke River, which today forms its northern boundary. The great Roanoke has played a major role in the county for more than two centuries. Today, the Roanoke River is considered by many to have the best fishing in the country. Halifax County takes pride in its rich history and invites you to experience it first hand.

The Historic Halifax Visitor's Center offers an audiovisual presentation, exhibits, guided tours and displays depicting the history of the town. Several historic structures are open on the site including the Sally Billy House, the Burgess House, the Halifax County Jail and the Owens House. The Montfort's house, with exhibits and walkways over foundations exposed by the scholar's spade and trowel, portrays the lifestyle of this wealthy resident of early Halifax. A spacious picnic area is nearby.