Morganton

Morganton
City
City of Morganton
Downtown Morganton Historic District Downtown Morganton Historic District
Location in Burke County and the state of North Carolina Location in Burke County and the state of North Carolina
Coordinates:
Country	United States
State	North Carolina
County	Burke
Founded	1777
Incorporated	1784
Named for	Daniel Morgan
Government
• Type	Council-Manager
• Body	Morganton City Council
• Mayor	Ronnie Thompson
Area
• Total	18.9 sq mi (49 km2)
• Land	18.8 sq mi (49 km2)
• Water	0.1 sq mi (0.3 km2)
Elevation	1,132 ft (345 m)
Population  (2010)
• Total	16,918
• Density	900/sq mi (350/km2)
Time zone	UTC-5 (Eastern (EST))
• Summer (DST)	UTC-4 (EDT)
ZIP codes	28655-28680
Area code(s)	828
FIPS code	37-44240
GNIS feature ID	1021462
Website	www.morgantonnc.gov

Morganton is a city located in Burke County, North Carolina, United States. It is the county seat and largest city in Burke County. With a population of 16,918 as of the 2010 census, Morganton is a vibrant community known for its rich history and natural beauty.

History

Morganton was founded in 1777 and incorporated in 1784. The city was named after General Daniel Morgan, a hero of the American Revolutionary War. Throughout its history, Morganton has played a significant role in the development of North Carolina and the United States.

Geography

Morganton is situated in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, providing residents and visitors with stunning natural landscapes. The city covers a total area of 18.9 square miles, with 18.8 square miles of land and 0.1 square miles of water. It is located at an elevation of 1,132 feet.

Demographics

As of the 2010 census, Morganton had a population of 16,918 people. The city has a diverse population, with a mix of different ethnicities and cultures. The population density varies across different neighborhoods and areas of the city.

Economy

Morganton has a diverse economy with a range of industries contributing to its growth and development. The city is home to several manufacturing companies, including those in the furniture, textile, and automotive sectors. Additionally, Morganton has a thriving healthcare industry, with several hospitals and medical facilities serving the community.

Education

Morganton is served by the Burke County Public Schools system, which operates several elementary, middle, and high schools in the area. The city is also home to several private schools and educational institutions. Higher education options are available nearby, with several colleges and universities located within a short drive of Morganton.

Attractions

Morganton offers a variety of attractions and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors. The city is known for its historic downtown district, which features beautifully preserved buildings and a vibrant arts and culture scene. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the nearby Pisgah National Forest, which offers hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.

Notable People

Morganton has been home to several notable individuals throughout its history. Some of the notable people associated with the city include:

• Zebulon Baird Vance - Former Governor of North Carolina and United States Senator
• Robert Morgan - Former United States Senator and North Carolina Attorney General
• George Hildebrand - American Civil War soldier and Medal of Honor recipient

External links

• Official website
• Visit Morganton