Morganton

Morganton is the county seat of Burke County, situated in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in western North Carolina. The town occupies a valley setting near the Catawba River, with a compact downtown area at its center.

The city was founded in 1777 and officially incorporated nine years later. It was named after Brigadier General Daniel Morgan, a key military figure during the American Revolution.

North Carolina School for the Deaf and Broughton Hospital were established in Morganton during the late nineteenth century, shaping the social landscape.

The city maintains administrative offices downtown where visitors can get local information. The terrain is relatively flat to gently rolling, making it easy to explore the town on foot.

By the mid-20th century, local textile factories transformed into poultry operations, drawing workers from Central America. This shift significantly altered the area's workforce and economic character.

Location: Burke County

Inception: 1777

Elevation above the sea: 354 m

Website: http://ci.morganton.nc.us

GPS coordinates: 35.74250,-81.69222

Latest update: December 14, 2025 19:36