The Town of Hillsborough was established in 1754 and was originally called Orange before taking its current name in 1766 (named after the then-Earl of Hillsborough, William Hill). Hillsborough played an important role in the colonial and revolutionary period of both North Carolina and American history, including being the headquarters of the Continental Army’s General Horatio Gage around the time of the Battle of Camden. Hillsborough was home to several governors and William Hooper, a signer of the Declaration of Independence. During the Civil War, the headquarters of General Joseph E. Johnston was near Hillsborough during the time period that General Johnston surrendered the largest portion of the Confederate armies to General Sherman (you can learn a lot more about the surrender by visiting the Bennett Place Historic Site in Durham, NC). Today, Hillsborough might be best known for the artists and writers that call Hillsborough home. Walking around Hillsborough’s downtown will take you back in time but will also allow you to appreciate the many great things that Hillsborough has to offer, such as its annual Hog Day and Handmade Parade. Hillsborough continues to be the county seat of Orange County.
Photos of Downtown Hillsborough, NC
Things To Do in Hillsborough, NC
