New Hanover County

New Hanover County, located in the southeastern region of North Carolina, is a vibrant coastal community with a rich history and a bright future. Established in 1729 as a precinct and later becoming a county in 1738, New Hanover County has played a significant role in the history of North Carolina and the United States.

Today, the county is home to approximately 214,000 residents, including the city of Wilmington, the county seat, and several beach communities.

New Hanover County’s land use is primarily urban and suburban, with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas.

The county has implemented a comprehensive land use plan, titled Plan NHC, which aims to guide development and redevelopment proposals, zoning regulations, and policies, programs, and initiatives to ensure sustainable growth

The plan focuses on preserving the county’s natural resources, promoting smart growth, and enhancing the quality of life for its residents.

History

New Hanover County’s history dates back to the early 18th century when it was established as a precinct in 1729, later becoming a county in 1738. The county was named after the British monarch, King George II, who was the Duke of New Hanover in Germany

The region was initially inhabited by indigenous tribes, such as the Cape Fear Indians, before European settlers arrived.

The county’s history is intertwined with the development of the lower Cape Fear region, which has been recognized as one of the most romantic and historically significant sections of North Carolina.

The region has seen its fair share of turmoil, including the Stamp Act troubles and the Sons of Liberty’s resistance during the American Revolution.

The area’s rich history is still preserved in various historical landmarks, such as St. Philip’s Church and Fort Johnston, which played significant roles during the colonial period.

Demographics

As of 2021, New Hanover County has a population of approximately 214,000 residents, making it the 10th most populous county in North Carolina

The county’s population has more than quadrupled since 1940, with the majority of growth occurring after the completion of Interstate I-40 in the 1990s

The county is expected to experience a high level of employment and population growth, with the population projected to reach 337,000 by 2040

New Hanover County is a diverse community, with a racial composition of 75.5% White, 18.6% Black or African American, 0.5% Native American, 2.5% Asian, and 2.9% from two or more races

The county’s Hispanic or Latino population accounts for 6.5% of the total population.

Important Resources

New Hanover County’s economy is diverse and thriving, with a strong focus on healthcare, education, and tourism. The county is home to New Hanover Regional Medical Center, the largest hospital in the region, and the University of North Carolina Wilmington, which employs over 3,000 people.

The tourism industry is also vital to the county’s economy, with attractions such as the Wilmington Riverwalk, Airlie Gardens, and the beaches of Wrightsville, Carolina, and Kure drawing millions of visitors each year.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the racial composition of New Hanover County?

New Hanover County is a diverse community, with a racial composition of 75.5% White, 18.6% Black or African American, 0.5% Native American, 2.5% Asian, and 2.9% from two or more races. The Hispanic or Latino population accounts for 6.5% of the total population.

What are some key historical landmarks in New Hanover County?

New Hanover County boasts several historical landmarks, including St. Philip’s Church and Fort Johnston, which played significant roles during the colonial period. The region’s history is preserved in various sites that reflect its rich past.

What are the major industries driving the economy of New Hanover County?

The county’s economy is diverse, with a strong focus on healthcare, education, and tourism. New Hanover Regional Medical Center and the University of North Carolina Wilmington are major employers, along with the thriving tourism industry.

What is the county’s approach to land use planning?

New Hanover County has implemented a comprehensive land use plan called Plan NHC, which guides development and redevelopment proposals, zoning regulations, and policies to ensure sustainable growth. The plan focuses on preserving natural resources and enhancing the quality of life for residents.

What are the best schools in New Hanover County?

The top-ranked public schools in New Hanover County, NC are Wilmington Early College High School, Isaac M Bear Early College High School, and Wrightsville Beach Elementary School.

These schools are recognized for their academic performance and equity. Other top-rated schools in the New Hanover County School District include Dr. Hubert Eaton Sr. Elementary, Ogden Elementary, and Winter Park Model Elementary.