Harnett County, North Carolina

Harnett County History, Geography, Demographics, Cities and Towns, and Education

Etymology - Origin of County Name

It was named in honor of Cornelius Harnett, an eminent Revolutionary patriot, president of the Provincial Council, president of the Council of Safety, delegate to the Continental Congress, and author of the Halifax Resolutions of April 12, 1776.

Demographics:

County QuickFacts: Census Bureau Quick Facts

History

Harnett was formed in 1855 from Cumberland. It was named in honor of Cornelius Harnett, an eminent Revolutionary patriot, president of the Provincial Council, president of the Council of Safety, delegate to the Continental Congress, and author of the Halifax Resolutions of April 12, 1776. It is in the eastern section of the State and is bounded by Chatham, Cumberland, Hoke, Moore, Lee, Wake, Johnston and Sampson counties. The present land area is 595.01 square miles and the 2000 population was 91,025. The courts were ordered to be held at Summerville until a courthouse was erected unless otherwise directed by a majority of the justices of the peace. It also named commissioners to locate the geographical center of the county, acquire the land. Lay out a town and erect the public buildings. The town was called Toomer in honor of John D. Toomer of Cumberland, a judge of the superior and of the supreme court. Many people became dissatisfied with the location, and in 1859 an act was passed to allow the voters to decide whether Toomer should remain the county seat or to select a new location. If a new site was selected, it should be called Lillington. Lillington was named in honor of Alexander Lillington. It is the county seat.

Neighboring Counties:

• Chatham
• Cumberland
• Hoke
• Moore
• Lee
• Wake
• Johnston
• Sampson

Cities and Towns:

County Resources:

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