by Desmond Mercer | Oct 7, 2025 | History
A Revolutionary Beginning Farmville’s history is deeply tied to one of its earliest and most influential figures, Major Benjamin May. Born in Scotland, May came to North Carolina in the mid 18th century. By around 1750, he had established himself on the south side of... 
by Desmond Mercer | Sep 5, 2025 | Around Town, History
Today, Farmville is celebrated for its charming downtown, vibrant arts scene, and welcoming small-town atmosphere. Yet the town’s story began quietly, decades before incorporation. Long before anyone called it Farmville, the settlement was known simply as “New Town”,... 
by Lori Drake | Apr 28, 2025 | History
One of the most impressive murals in Farmville’s outdoor art gallery, is the one of the H.B. Sugg school at the pocket park across from Lanoca Coffee on Main Street. The life-size image is painted with a unique perspective so that when standing in front of it and... 
by Peg O'Connell | Aug 5, 2024 | History
Before I begin this story, I must give credit to author Henry C. Bridgers, Jr. who wrote a delightful book on the East Carolina Railway and the Yellow-hammer {1}. His book tells the story from a family perspective (his father founded the railroad) and throughout you... 
by Peg O'Connell | Jul 5, 2024 | History
For a small town, Farmville has produced more than its fair share of senior military leaders. Of course, there was the first, Major Benjamin May, the revolutionary militia officer who was one of the early settlers to western Pitt County. There were also Lt. General...
