Abstract:
Carteret County was established in 1722, named for Sir John Carteret, Earl of Granville. While there are few records from early settlers, the region was likely first explored by hunters and fishermen engaged in the fur and salted fish trades. Early settlers received support from the local Hatteras people. The first settlement in Carteret County was called Fish Town, later named Beaufort. Prior to the county formation, the Tuscarora had attacked European settlers living in coastal communities which retarded community growth. Early industry in the County included fishing, agriculture (tobacco and grains), and naval stores production. Lumber, too, was harvested in the County and locally milled prior to transport. Finally, while the Anglican Church was recognized, Quakerism remained the dominant religion prior to 1730. After this date, Baptist and Methodist societies were established in the County.