Bladen County

Bladen County, North Carolina, known as the “Mother of All Counties”, had fifty-five counties formed from its original borders.  More than one thousand lakes, made by a 100,000 year old meteor shower, were also in existence within the original boundaries of Bladen County.  Seven lakes remain in Bladen County today.  This vibrant region, named for commissioner of trades and plantations Martin Bladen, lies in NC’s picturesque southeastern Coastal Plains region.

According to Census 2000 data, Bladen County, NC’s fourth largest county, boasts more than 32,200 citizens.  Ten different towns and villages encompass the nearly 880 square miles of Bladen County.  Elizabethtown, the county seat, serves as a hub of culture and commerce in the immediate area.  This small town, known for its hospitable atmosphere, is home to 3,700 residents.  Elizabethtown is the site of popular recreational destinations such as Jones Lake State Park.  The 2,208-acre park features opportunities for boating, fishing, hiking and swimming on its beautiful beaches. 

The White Lake community holds a year-round population of approximately 500 residents; however, every summer the tourists explode the population to more than 200,000 individuals.  Visitors flock to White Lake, home of the “Nation’s Safest Beach”, where boaters, swimmers and water-skiers enjoy the crystal clear waters without the presence of dangerous currents or tides.  White Lake also offers other family-friendly attractions such as an amusement park and golf course. 

Dublin, population 250, hosts the regions annual Peanut Festival each September.  This popular festival features a golf tournament and rodeo that attracts revelers from as far as Wilmington and other coastal cities.  Located in nearby Kelly, Singletary Lake State Park is another popular spot for visitors.  The park lies within the borders of the massive 36,000-acre Blade Lakes State Forest.  Bladen County includes several additional towns with less than one thousand residents.  These include Bladenboro, Butters, East Arcadia, Tar Heel and White Oak.

Bladen County operates a balanced economy driven by forty different prosperous industries.  Agriculture plays a significant role in the region.  According to the 1997 Census of Agriculture, Bladen County ranked fourth among the nation’s counties responsible for producing hogs and pigs.  Bladen County projects a pro-business environment, with numerous incentives and resources available for those who need it.  Opportunities for employment also exist in the assembly industries, chemicals, food processing, manufacturing and textile sectors.

Bladen Community College also contributes to the business-friendly atmosphere by providing training for the local labor pool, in addition to its wide variety of educational services.  Several colleges and universities exist in nearby counties, within a reasonable driving distance of Bladen County.  In addition, students at the primary and secondary levels have several top-notch public schools available.

Bladen County, North Carolina has small, close-knit communities, coupled with nearby metropolitan areas, affording residents the best of both worlds.  An outstanding quality of life, surrounded by the area’s natural splendor and strategic location make Bladen County an enviable place to call home.