Governor Stein Recognizes The Town of Clarkton 165th Anniversary

In Recognition Of

The Town Of Clarkton 165^th Anniversary

2026

By The Governor Of The State Of North Carolina

A Proclamation

Whereas, the Town of Clarkton, North Carolina, traces its origins to the mid-nineteenth century when the railroad established a depot at what was first known as Brown Marsh Station, laying the foundation for a new community in Bladen County; and 

Whereas, the Town of Clarkton was first established with the name Dalton in 1861 and later renamed to Clarkton in 1874 in honor of Mr. John Hector Clark; and 

Whereas, in 1866, the arrival of a mercantile store, turpentine distillery, and early homes transformed the rail stop into a growing settlement, demonstrating the entrepreneurial spirit that would shape Clarkton’s future; and 

Whereas, the village was later known as Dalton before being renamed Clarkton in 1874 in honor of John Hector Clark, whose leadership and enterprise helped establish the town’s early commercial center; and 

Whereas, Clarkton’s railroad connections fostered its development as a regional trading hub for agricultural products such as timber, cotton, and tobacco, strengthening the local economy and the broader region; and 

Whereas, incorporated in 1901, Clarkton today proudly marks 125 years as an incorporated municipality while honoring more than a century and a half of shared history, faith, and community life; and 

Whereas, across generations, families in Clarkton have nurtured schools, churches, farms, and businesses, passing forward traditions of service, perseverance, and neighborly care that remain central to the town’s identity; and 

Whereas, as Clarkton reflects on its journey from a small railroad settlement to a proud and enduring town, its citizens continue to invest in the well-being of their children, the strength of their families, and the opportunities available to future generations, ensuring that the same spirit that built the town will guide its next chapter; and 

Whereas, under the leadership of its elected officials, including its current mayor and town council, Clarkton continues to honor its heritage while working to create a vibrant future for all who call the town home;

Now, Therefore, I, Josh Stein, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim May 25, 2026, as “In Recognition Of The Town Of Clarkton 165^th Anniversary” in North Carolina and commend its observance to all residents.

In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Great Seal of the State of North Carolina at the Capitol in Raleigh this fifth day of May in the year of our Lord two thousand and twenty-sixth and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and fiftieth.