Harrells, NC, a small rural community in Duplin and Sampson counties, is home to about 200 residents and is characterized by plowland, farms, and forests. The town's name dates back to the 1800s when a lost traveler named William Harrells set up a store, and the name stuck even after the store was long gone. Housing listings are rare, with prices ranging from the mid $100,000s to the high $300,000s, featuring a mix of historic farmhouses, bungalows, midcentury ranch-style homes, and contemporary cottages, all typically situated on large lots of an acre or more. While Harrells is within the Black River floodplain, it is not considered a high-risk area for hurricanes. Students attend highly rated Sampson County Schools, located about 10 miles north, including Union Elementary, Union Intermediate, Union Middle, and Union High. Harrells Christian Academy offers private, faith-based education and has been a community staple since 1970. Recreational options include the nearby Black River, known for its ancient bald cypress trees, freshwater fishing, and paddling, accessible by a public boat ramp less than 10 miles south. Local amenities on Highway 41 include a Family Dollar, a gas station, and El Crucero Tienda Y Taqueria, which serves authentic Mexican fare. For more extensive shopping and medical needs, residents travel 23 miles to Clinton, home to chain stores and Sampson Regional Medical Center. Harrells is conveniently situated near the junction of Highway 41 and Route 421, with Wilmington International Airport located under 50 miles south via Route 421.
