Hillsborough in Orange County, North Carolina — The American South (South Atlantic)
Town of Hillsborough
Established 1754
— Welcome —
Established as the Orange County seat in 1754 where the Great Indian Trading Path crossed the Eno River, Hillsborough appears much as it did in the 18th century. Known as the "capital of the back country," Hillsborough was the scene of many dramatic events taking place prior to the Revolutionary War and the base of operations for both British and Continental forces during the Revolution. It has retained an impressive collection of buildings sites and landscapes that reflect its important role during the Colonial period through North Carolina's textile mill heritage.
Today, Hillsborough encompasses a large historic district with residential neighborhoods and a considerable number of locally owned restaurants and retail shops providing a vibrant place to stroll, take in the scenery, and explore an array of treasures. Its downtown historic district, listed in the National Register of Historic Places, features over 100 late 18th and early 19th century buildings — many open to the public.
Begin your visit at the Alexander Dickson House (c. 1790), as the house now serves as the Orange County Visitors Center offering brochures, maps, orientation video, exhibits, and a gift shop.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Colonial Era • Industry & Commerce
this page online
Location. 36° 4.516′ N, 79° 6.018′ W. Marker is in Hillsborough, North Carolina, in Orange County. Marker is on West King Street, 0.1 miles west of South Churton Street (Business U.S. 70), on the left when traveling west. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 131 W King St, Hillsborough NC 27278, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Eagle Lodge No. 71, A.F. and A.M. (within shouting distance of this marker); Thomas Burke (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Boone Expedition for Kentucky (about 300 feet away); Regulators Hanged (about 300 feet away); Orange County Courthouse, 1845-1957 (about 300 feet away); Edmund Fanning (about 400 feet away); William Churton (about 400 feet away); North Carolina Society of the Cincinnati (about 400 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Hillsborough.
Photographed By Duane and Tracy Marsteller, August 31, 2023
2. Town of Hillsborough Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on September 8, 2023. It was originally submitted on April 26, 2021, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 230 times since then and 21 times this year. Photos: 1. submitted on April 26, 2021, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. 2. submitted on September 8, 2023, by Duane and Tracy Marsteller of Murfreesboro, Tennessee.
