Mecklenburg County, North Carolina History and Genealogy

Mecklenburg County was formed in 1762 from Anson county, and named in honor of the native place of the new Queen, Princess Charlotte, of Mecklenburg, one of the smaller German States.
This county has a peculiar historical interest. It is the birth-place of liberty on American soil. No portion of the State presents a more glowing page of unflinching patriotic valor than Mecklenburg, always taking an active part in every political movement, at home or abroad, leading to independence.

The temper and character of the people were early shown. In 1766, George A. Selwyn, having obtained, by some means, large grants of lands from the British Crown, proceeded to have them surveyed, through his agent, Henry E. McCullock, and located. On some of these grants, the first settlers had made considerable improvements by their own stalwart arms, and persevering industry. For this reason, and not putting much faith in the validity of Selwyn’s claims, they seized John Frohock, the surveyor, and compelled him to desist from his work, or “fare worse”. Here was manifested the early “buzzing” of the “Hornets’ Nest.” which, in less than ten years, was destined to “sting” royalty itself in these American colonies.

The little village of Charlotte, the seat of justice for Mecklenburg county, was in 1775, the theater of one of the most memorable events in the political annals of the United States. Situated on the beautiful and fertile campaign, between the Yadkin and Catawba Rivers, and on the general route of the Southern travel, and among the earliest settlements in the Carolinas and Georgia, it soon became the centre of an enterprising and prosperous population. The fertility of the soil, the healthfulness of the climate, and abundance of cheap and un-appropriated lands, were powerful inducements in drawing a large influx of emigrants from the Northern colonies, and from the Old World. These natural features of middle and western Carolina; in particular, were strongly attractive, and pointed out, under well-directed energy, the sure road to prospective wealth and prosperity.

Mecklenburg County History

 

1 thought on “Mecklenburg County, North Carolina History and Genealogy”

  1. I am researching my 4th G grandfather William Wallis who is reported to have been born 1760 in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina. His wife was Marie/Mary Roquemore borne in France 1760 died in Iron County, Missouri after 1860, she is listed on the 1860 Federal Censes as being 100 years old living with her son in-law and daughter.
    The last record I can find on William is the 1830 Federal Census for Iron county, Missouri. Can you help me in my research?

    Thank You
    Randy R Wallis

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