Skip To Content

About La Grange

Explore the Town of La Grange NC

Life in La Grange, NC, offers a blend of small-town charm, community spirit, and Southern hospitality. Here’s what you can expect:

  1. Close-Knit Community: La Grange prides itself on its tight-knit community where neighbors know each other by name and look out for one another. Residents often come together for local events, festivals, and community gatherings, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie.
  2. Small-Town Atmosphere: La Grange embodies the classic small-town atmosphere, with tree-lined streets, historic buildings, and a relaxed pace of life. The town’s downtown area features locally-owned shops, restaurants, and businesses, creating a charming and welcoming environment for residents and visitors alike.
  3. Outdoor Recreation: Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities in and around La Grange. The nearby Neuse River and Contentnea Creek offer opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing, while local parks and green spaces provide hiking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds for families to enjoy.
  4. Family-Friendly Environment: La Grange is a family-friendly town with safe neighborhoods, quality schools, and plenty of parks and playgrounds for children to enjoy. Families can participate in youth sports leagues, community events, and activities organized by local churches and organizations.
  5. Convenient Location: Despite its rural setting, La Grange is conveniently located near major highways, including US Route 70 and Interstate 795, providing easy access to nearby cities such as Goldsboro, Kinston, and Greenville. This makes it an ideal location for commuters and those who enjoy exploring the surrounding area.
  6. Southern Hospitality: La Grange residents are known for their friendly and welcoming demeanor, embodying the true spirit of Southern hospitality. Whether you’re a newcomer or a longtime resident, you’ll feel right at home in this close-knit community where everyone is treated like family.

Overall, life in La Grange, NC, offers a peaceful and welcoming environment with a strong sense of community, natural beauty, and small-town charm that make it a wonderful place to call home.

History

La Grange, North Carolina, has a rich history that dates back to its early settlement in the 18th century. Here’s an overview of its historical journey:

  1. Early Settlement: The area that would become La Grange was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Tuscarora. European settlers began to arrive in the region in the 1700s, drawn by the fertile soil and abundant natural resources.
  2. Founding of La Grange: La Grange was officially established in the early 19th century. The town’s name is believed to have been inspired by the French word “grange,” meaning barn or granary, reflecting its agrarian roots and agricultural heritage.
  3. Railroad Industry: Like many towns in North Carolina, La Grange’s development was closely tied to the railroad. The construction of the Wilmington and Weldon Railroad through the area in the mid-19th century brought growth and prosperity to the town, making it a hub for transportation and commerce.
  4. Agricultural Heritage: Agriculture has long been a cornerstone of La Grange’s economy. In its early years, the town was surrounded by farms producing crops such as tobacco, cotton, corn, and soybeans. Agricultural fairs and festivals became important community events, celebrating the town’s farming heritage.
  5. Civil War Era: During the Civil War, La Grange played a role in the Confederate war effort, supplying troops and resources to the Southern cause. The town was occupied by Union forces at various times, and several skirmishes were fought in the surrounding area.
  6. Postwar Development: After the Civil War, La Grange experienced a period of reconstruction and growth. The town’s economy rebounded, and new industries such as textile manufacturing emerged, contributing to its prosperity.
  7. Community Life: Over the years, La Grange has continued to thrive as a vibrant and close-knit community. Residents come together for local events, festivals, and community gatherings, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie and civic pride.

Today, La Grange remains a thriving small town with a rich history and a bright future. Its historic downtown, agricultural heritage, and strong sense of community make it a beloved place to call home for residents and visitors alike.