The areas that have served as the capitals of North Carolina include Charles Town, Bath, Edenton, New Bern, and Raleigh. The capital changed locations multiple times as the colony expanded and government needs evolved.

Early Capitals

Charles Town, founded near the Ashley River, was the primary seat of government for Carolina from 1670. However, when Carolina split into separate colonies in 1712, Charles Town remained the capital of South Carolina and was later renamed Charleston.

Bath served as the capital of colonial North Carolina from 1705 to 1722 and was the state’s first incorporated town. Edenton was the capital from 1722 to 1743, offering better connections to the colony’s expanding population.

New Bern and Raleigh

New Bern was the capital from 1743 to 1792 and was an important center of government and commerce. The town’s status rose after the construction of Tryon Palace in 1770, which served as the governor’s residence and seat of government.

Raleigh has been the state’s capital since 1792, chosen for its central location. The city has developed into one of North Carolina’s leading economic and educational centers, with universities, research organizations, and major employers.

Original reporting: WRAL Raleigh — read the source article.