Albemarle, NC

Located about 40 miles northeast of Charlotte and right outside of Uwharrie National Forest, Albemarle is a charming, small city of about 16,000 residents. Conveniently located in the central piedmont area of North Carolina at the crossroads of Highway 52 and NC 27, Albemarle is a pleasant and affordable town in which to live. Filled with historic sites and a warm atmosphere, this town is a great place to call home and has opportunities for young professionals and families alike.

Albemarle is named after the first county established in North Carolina, which was named for the Duke of Albemarle, George Monck. Monck was granted a royal charter from King Charles II for the province of Carolina in 1663. The city has served as the county seat of Stanly County, North Carolina since 1841, and was officially established as a town in 1857. The city of Albemarle’s history is rooted in the textile industry, as the town served as a hub for the surrounding rural areas for jobs in textile centers. The town’s growth was further spurred by the construction of a railroad in the early 20th century, bringing more jobs to the town. What was originally the site of the Stanly County Courthouse in the 19th century, is now fondly referred to as “the square” by locals and serves as the symbolic center of town, with the original town clock intact. In 1993, Albemarle was recognized as a National Main Street City by the National Trust for Historic Preservation

Albemarle has a wide variety of attractions for all ages within the city. Nestled just west of Morrow Mountain State Park and Badin Lake, Albemarle offers many opportunities for outdoor recreation. Specifically, Morrow Mountain State Park is an ideal location for swimming, hiking, horseback riding, fishing, and paddling. Lake Tillery is also nearby, and is known for its beautiful views, clean water, and camping. In 2009, the Roger F. Snyder Greenway, a paved walkway which runs along Little Long Creek, was constructed to promote health and wellness in the community. Other popular attractions include Carolina Rooftop Challenge, Badin Road Drive-In Theater, the Stanly County Museum, Stony Mountain Vineyards, Dennis Vineyards, and a variety of dining options. Every year, the Stanly County Winter Wine Festival charms locals and visitors alike, held at the Market Station in downtown Albemarle. Another seasonal favorite event is the Get Lost Corn Maze, a family owned and operated corn maze, pumpkin patch, and overall festive venue to enjoy the beautiful fall weather.

The Stanly County School system has 11 elementary schools, 4 middle schools, and 7 public high schools. There are also a number of private schools in the area, including Park Ridge Christian School and Christ the King Christian Academy. There are many colleges and universities close by, including Stanly Community College, Pfeiffer University; a small, 4 year private university located about 15 minutes outside of town, and the Pfeiffer University Center for Health Sciences; located in the heart of downtown Albemarle, on East Main Street. Montgomery Community College, Cabarrus College of Health Sciences, and South Piedmont Community College are also situated nearby Albemarle, NC.

Some prevalent industries around Albemarle include construction, manufacturing, education, healthcare, and more. Manufacturing companies in the area include Preformed Line Products Co., Michelin Tire Center, International Automotive Components, Fiberon, American Fiber and Finishing, and Masterpiece Housing. Other top employers in the area include Stanly County Schools, Pfeiffer University, Stanly Regional Medical Center, the NC Department of Public Safety, and much more.

The Freeman-Marks House is the oldest remaining building in Albemarle with its construction dating back to sometime in the early 1800’s. The house was located right by the original county courthouse, and has served as an office to general store owners, doctors, and lawyers. When the house began to deteriorate, it was named a historic property in 1975. The Freeman-Marks House has been restored to its original 19th century appearance and currently sits facing Main Street.