Greenville

Greenville lies in the Coastal Plain of North Carolina at 17 meters (56 feet) elevation and serves as the main medical and university center in the eastern part of the state. The town spreads across several neighborhoods with residential areas, a business district, and academic facilities connected by a regular street grid.

The settlement was founded in 1786 as a small trading post and grew during the 19th century through the development of tobacco warehouses and plantations. In the 20th century, the expansion of the university and medical facilities transformed the town into a regional center for education and healthcare.

East Carolina University shapes the rhythm of the town and draws students from across the region. Stallings Stadium hosts the Little League Softball World Series each year, turning the town into a gathering point for baseball fans from around the country.

The town is served by public buses and trolleys that connect residential areas with the downtown area, shopping centers, and the university. The street layout is straightforward and makes it easy to navigate between different neighborhoods.

The annual PirateFest turns Town Common park into a festival ground with music, vendor stalls, and activities for the whole community. The name of the event references the local university mascot and draws people from across the region.

Location: Pitt County

Inception: 1786

Elevation above the sea: 17 m

Part of: North Carolina Coastal Plain

Website: http://greenvillenc.gov

GPS coordinates: 35.60167,-77.37250

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:01