LIFE ON THE RIVER

Nestled against the Pasquotank River, in the northeastern corner of North Carolina, is Elizabeth City -- the cultural, commercial, medical, and educational center of the Albemarle area. Elizabeth City is the county seat of Pasquotank County and lies adjacent to Camden County. The Elizabeth City/Pasquotank population numbers about 33,287 and Camden County residents number 6,221.

Hardy, adventurous English settlers came to the Albemarle area from Roanoke Island in 1585, long before Jamestown and Plymouth Rock were settled! The first Grand Assembly of North Carolina met in Pasquotank County in 1665. The first successful open rebellion against the English crown, Culpepper's Rebellion, was staged in Pasquotank in 1677. In 1705, the state's first public school was established in Pasquotank. Museum of the Albemarle, a regional branch of the North Carolina Museum of History, tells the story of the history of the region.

Rich in history, Elizabeth City is progressive and poised for growth. With two industrial parks already in existence, the county has purchased 450 acres of land on US 17 North to attract additional industry. Albemarle Hospital, a 182-bed regional medical center, has recently completed a major modernization program. This renovation included over 55,000 square feet of new construction which consolidated outpatient services, centralized material management, improved patient privacy and amenities, enhanced the ambulatory surgery service, and provided adequate space throughout the hospital.

People of widely varying beliefs have been attracted to the Elizabeth City area. Today there are congregations of over 23 faiths in the community. Several churches are included in the Historic Elizabeth City Walking Tour. First Baptist Church boasts one of the oldest congregations in the city, founded in 1786. Another historic church, Christ Episcopal Church, has stained glass windows that depict the life of Christ. Local churches sponsor youth groups, basketball leagues, preschool, and other activities.

Recreational opportunities abound in the Elizabeth City area! Water activities are plentiful-boating, skiing, fishing, or relaxing at Waterfront Park. Two eighteen-hole golf courses are close by and a nine-hole par 3 course is located at the Knobbs Creek Recreation Center. The Parks and Recreation Department facilitates a wide range of activities including softball leagues for all ages, youth and adult soccer, baseball, aerobics, gymnastics, men's and women's volleyball. A 4400-square foot Senior Citizens Center is open for the enjoyment of senior citizens in the area.

Hospitality is a trademark of Elizabeth City. Complimentary deep water docking is available to boaters for 48 hours. A group of local waterfront ambassadors, known as the "Rose Buddies", offer free refreshments and travel information to visiting sailors. Two longtime residents, Fred Fearing and Joe Kramer, started the Farmer's Market assures a wide selection of fresh, locally-grown fruits and vegetables. Whatever you are looking for, shopping in ElizabethCity will be an enjoyable experience.