Williamston is a quiet river town with regional attractions
Williamston was originally founded as a port town on eastern North Carolina’s Roanoke River, but today most people move here for a slower pace of life. “It’s a small, quiet town, and we’re getting a lot of people retiring here,” says Georgie Lilley, a Realtor and broker with Keller Williams Realty Points East who’s sold homes in the area for 34 years. Williamston is the seat of Martin County and features a variety of locally owned restaurants and national retailers. The annual Carolina Stampede Music Fest draws people here from around the area, as does the popular Senator Bob Martin Eastern Agricultural Center, which is a regional hub for equestrian events.
A variety of housing with a small-town, suburban or rural feel
Grassy lawns and mature trees surround the National, Colonial Revival and ranch-style homes in Williamston’s town center. Some have driveways leading to attached garages, and parking is also available on the narrow streets. Outside of town, established subdivisions like Woodland Acres have a more suburban feel, and there are also rural multi-acre properties surrounded by farmland. Prices typically range from around $70,000 to $400,000. Manufactured homes can range from $50,000 to $200,000. Low-rise rental apartments are available in town. Properties near the Roanoke River might be at risk of flooding. Homeowners should check flood maps to assess their risk.
Southern cooking and barbecue restaurants are local favorites
“We have some of the best restaurants that you could ever ask for,” Lilley says. “People come from all over to eat at Georgia Deans.” Located in a former florist shop, Georgia Deans serves Southern cuisine and seafood in a homey atmosphere. “The grilled salmon is my favorite. When I walk in the door, they know to start the grilled salmon because that’s what I always get.” Shaw’s Barbecue House is another local favorite that’s served classic eastern North Carolina barbecue since 1976. Locally owned businesses like an antique store, a nail salon and a tearoom can be found in Williamston’s downtown, a walkable area lined with brick storefronts. National retailers here include Walmart, Belk and Tractor Supply Co. Grocery stores include Food Lion and Piggly Wiggly.
Live music, horse shows and rodeos
The annual Carolina Stampede Music Fest is the community’s largest event. “It’s a big thing,” Lilley says. “We have bands downtown and all kinds of food trucks and vendors.” The music festival takes place on Main Street over two days during the last weekend in September. The Senator Bob Martin Eastern Agricultural Center has regular events throughout the year, including horse shows, rodeos and monster truck racing.
Outdoor recreation along the Roanoke River and in town parks
The 18-acre Moratoc Park provides fishing and kayak access to the Roanoke River. The 1-mile Skewarkee Rail Trail is a paved path that leads from Williamston’s downtown to the waterfront. At the Roanoke River National Wildlife Refuge, birdwatchers can explore hiking trails and kayaking routes through a bottomwood forest and wetlands. In town, Gaylord Perry Park has a playground, a skate park and a community center with an indoor gym and fitness center. The Roanoke Country Club’s 18-hole course is open to the public. The Williamston Bowling Center has 14 lanes, arcade games and pool tables.
Public schools range from B to C ratings
Kids can attend pre-kindergarten through second grade at Williamston Primary, which earns a B from Niche, and then go to third through fifth grade at the C-rated E.J. Hayes Elementary. Riverside Middle earns a C. Martin County High was recently created when two local high schools consolidated, and it hasn’t yet been rated by Niche. A new high school building is being constructed on the campus of the current school. Martin Community College is known for its degrees in equine business and equine training.
Rural highways and back roads lead to nearby cities
U.S. Route 17 leads about 23 miles to Washington, and U.S. Route 64 leads roughly 46 miles to Rocky Mount. Greenville is a 28-mile drive away on rural back roads. Martin County Public Transportation provides rides around the county, but residents must book them in advance. Sidewalks line many of the streets in town. Houses of worship here include First Pentecostal Holiness Church and Memorial Baptist Church. ECU Health Bertie Hospital is 14 miles away, and Pitt-Greenville Airport, which has commercial flights to Charlotte, is a 26-mile trip.
Written By
Annie Franklin
