About Us

The name "Atkinson" first appeared on a Pender County Deed in 1890, however the Town of Atkinson was not incorporated until 1909. William Hezekiah Lewis used 100 acres of land that was deeded to him by his mother to start the town. The engineer who laid out the town squares and building lots was Roger P. Atkinson for whom the town was named. The Town Map was drawn out in 1890 and recorded in 1902. At the turn of the century, Atkinson was a bustling town with many farms, factories, and other industries. With the Cape Fear and Yadkin Valley Rail Road Line running from Wilmington to Fayetteville, Atkinson was a convienient stop along the way. The railroad bed still exists in the middle of town but the tracks have been pulled up. The Depot has since been moved out of town.but is still intact on private property.

Atkinson is sometimes called "Blueberry Land," and though many people think this is referring to the multitude of blueberry farms in the area, there is more to the story. Botanist Dr. Frederick Vernon Coville was the first person to domesticate the wild blueberry, and later his son, Mr. Frederick Coville, settled in the town and was one of the first to grow blueberries in the area. The Coville home still stands in the town along the old railroad bed.

Atkinson has moved into the 21st Century at a slow, country pace, but many residents believe this is what makes the town charming. Residents walk and bike around town, and sit on their porches to enjoy the simple pleasures that only life in a small town can offer. The community also hosts several events throughout the year, including a Christmas Parade, Halloween Trunk-or-Treat, the Fire Department BBQ fundraisers, and many more. The town also features a softball field, gymnasium, Town Park, the Atkinson Library, and is in close proximity to Black River; the town has just something for just about everyone!

Welcome to the Town of Atkinson!