Perquimans County

Perquimans County is an administrative area in North Carolina defined by its water features and coastal characteristics. The territory is shaped by a network of rivers and bays, with Hertford serving as the county seat where government services are based.

The territory was established as Berkeley Precinct in 1672 and received its current name in 1684 before gaining county status in 1739. These transformations reflect European settlement and colonial administrative organization of the region.

The county's name comes from the Perquimans River, which Native Americans originally called after a word meaning water. Today, the waterways remain central to how people move through and experience the landscape, shaping daily life and local identity.

The area is predominantly water-based and is best explored by boat or through local bridges and ferries. Visitors should prepare for wet, marshy conditions and come ready for warmer seasons when the landscape is most accessible.

The region was an important trading hub for timber and shipping along its rivers during early colonial times. This maritime heritage is still visible today in the preserved historic docks and port infrastructure of Hertford.

Location: North Carolina

Location: Province of North Carolina

Inception: 1672

Capital city: Hertford

Shares border with: Pasquotank County, Chowan County, Gates County, Washington County, Tyrrell County

Website: http://co.perquimans.nc.us

GPS coordinates: 36.18000,-76.41000

Latest update: December 15, 2025 13:21