Pender County, like many rural communities across the South, was once home to several Rosenwald Schools, a network of institutions that played a crucial role in African American education during the early 20th century. These schools were built as part of a collaboration between Julius Rosenwald, a philanthropist and president of Sears, Roebuck & Co., and Booker T. Washington, the prominent African American educator...

The Pender County Library is excited to host an exhibit honoring the life and legacy of Samm-Art Williams. Samuel Art Williams was an American playwright, screenwriter, television producer, and actor on stage, television, and film. “Born and raised in Burgaw, Samm-Art Williams graduated from C.F. Pope High School in 1964. He later earned a degree from Morgan State University in Baltimore. His impressive career...

Pender County Tourism is excited to announce the 2025 Pender County Tourism Summit, taking place on Thursday, February 27, 2025, in Hampstead, NC. This dynamic event will bring together industry experts, regional leaders, and local businesses to explore the latest marketing trends and collaborate on innovative strategies to enhance tourism in Pender County and beyond. The summit is to be an engaging day filled with...

We are excited to share that several of our Pender County festivals and events were recognized at the NC Association of Festival and Events (NCAF&E) ShowFest 2025 – Event Innovators Conference! These prestigious excellence awards celebrate the creativity, dedication, and community support that make our local events truly special. Award Recipients: Best Children’s Program – AutumnFest, Town of...

Join us as Pender County will celebrate its 150th anniversary with a special event at the Pender County Courthouse on Feb. 16, 2025, at 2 p.m. The ceremony will include speeches from local leaders and the unveiling of a new clock and historical marker on the courthouse grounds. As part of the sesquicentennial celebration, the county also will create a time capsule to be opened during its bicentennial in 2075. The capsule...