Pitt County covers 656 square miles of prime agricultural land in eastern North Carolina. The county is approximately 90 miles from the nearest beach, Atlantic Beach, NC and approximately 78 miles from our State Capital, Raleigh, NC. The county’s highest point is 126.4 feet above sea level, in the Northwest portion of the county.
Pitt County got its name from William Pitt, Earl of Chatham. William Pitt was an English statesman and orator, born in London, England, UK. He studied at Oxford University and in 1731, Pitt joined the army. Pitt led the young "Patriot" Whigs and in 1756 became secretary of state, where he was a pro-freedom speaker in British Colonial government. Pitt County was founded in 1760 under British Colonial government.
Pitt County is home to the US Open Water Sports Tournament, the Purple / Gold Pigskin Pigout Party and many festivals throughout the county. Pitt County is within an easy drive of the Pamlico Sound, the Atlantic Ocean and the Appalachian Mountains, providing limitless opportunities for sailing, fishing, skiing, hiking, biking, relaxing, etc. Over 1500 events are presented each year under the auspices of local arts councils and East Carolina University while the Greenville Museum of Art is a fully accredited art museum, one of only 640 nationwide and offers advanced and beginners' classes in all aspects of art.
