Abstract:
Originally, a tract of land between Whiteville and the South Carolina border, Columbus County is an expansive region, encompassing 939 square miles. Inhabited by Native Americans (pre-contact-1734), and serving as a refuge for non-combatants (1871), as well as a retreat for criminals and military renegades (1871-1808), Columbus County is historically known for the production of naval stores and the exploitation of lumber.