Founded at the height of the American Revolution, Warren County is rich in historical tradition and has contributed to North Carolina four governors, six attorney generals, three Supreme Court judges, and five magnates of the tobacco industry. The County is named for a Massachusetts doctor-soldier who died fighting for independence at Bunker Hill. One of the first settlers in what was to become Warren County was William Duke, in 1735.
Tobacco immediately became the chief cash crop. In addition, tar, turpentine, hemp, flax, pork, and beef were produced for export. The County has maintained its historical heritage, and throughout the County are numerous evidences of a proud past. There are over fifty properties listed in the National Register of Historic Properties. Ninety percent of the Town of Warrenton’s business area has been designated a historic district listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
The County’s 443 square miles are nestled in the scenic, seasonable northeastern Piedmont section of North Carolina. The northern boundary is the Virginia State Line. To the east are the counties of Northampton and Halifax. The counties of Nash and Franklin are to the south and southeast, while Vance County abuts Warren to the west. The County enjoys four distinct and picturesque seasons, but mild enough to allow for year-round outdoor enjoyment.
