Seven Springs: Small Town with a Rich History
Nestled on the banks of the Neuse River, the tiny hamlet of Seven Springs holds the distinction of being the oldest settlement in Wayne County, North Carolina. Indians native to the region occupied the area between the village and what is now the Cliffs of the Neuse State Park long before the first colonists appeared on the scene. Shortly after 1700, when Englishman John Lawson came through what is now Wayne County performing a survey of the Carolina interior, he found settlers in the area. The first permanent resident appears to have been William Whitfield II, who built his home in the vicinity of Seven Springs in 1742.
In December, 1862, the Civil War Battle of Whitehall occurred here. Union troops set up cannon and bombarded the Confederate positions, as well as the unfinished Ram Neuse, on the north side of the river. Ultimately, the Union guns did little damage, while Confederate sharpshooters played havoc with their opponents. Undaunted, the Federal troops continued on their way to Goldsboro.
The natural springs that ultimately gave the town its name were developed following the Civil War. Two hotels, the Seven Springs Hotel and the Ninth Springs Hotel, were built during this period. It is said that several North Carolina Governors, including Jarvis, Kitchin and Aycock, were guests. The Seven Springs Hotel continued in operation until after World War II. It still stands today, and is a private residence. The springs are located on private property as well.
Today, the Town of Seven Springs is home to approximately 90 residents, after many relocated following the massive flooding that resulted from Hurricane Floyd in 1999. While much has changed, one constant has been that the town continues to be a quiet place, where life moves at a more relaxed pace. Seven Springs remains a picture perfect image of small town Americana.