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Lumberton was founded in 1787 on land given by John Willis, a Revolutionary War officer, when Robeson County was created and needed a seat of government. Set at a ford of the Lumber River where several roads met, the town grew as a shipping point for timber and naval stores floated downriver to Georgetown, South Carolina, and it was named for the river itself. The railroad from Wilmington arrived in 1860, and later the town became a tobacco market in the Carolina Border Belt.
Downtown keeps a historic commercial district, the Robeson County Courthouse and the restored Carolina Theatre, now the Carolina Civic Center, which hosts concerts and shows. A riverwalk follows the dark, tea-colored waters of the Lumber River through town.
The area is also the heart of the Lumbee Tribe, the largest tribe east of the Mississippi River, and nearby Pembroke is home to the Museum of the Southeast American Indian and the Lumbee Homecoming festival each summer. Lumber River State Park protects long stretches of the river for paddling and camping.
A boardwalk and trail along the Lumber River near downtown Lumberton, passing through cypress swamp and wooded riverbanks with benches and overlooks. It is an easy, mostly flat walk and a good way to see the river up close. Parts can close after floods, so check conditions after heavy rain.
A city park in Lumberton with ponds, walking trails through the woods, fishing, ball fields, picnic shelters and a playground. It is one of the most popular outdoor spots in town for families. The trails are flat and shady; bring insect repellent in summer, and a fishing license if you plan to fish.
Lumberton's historic downtown, set near the Lumber River, has early 1900s commercial buildings, the Robeson County courthouse, local restaurants and shops, plus festivals and seasonal events. It is compact and walkable. Look for murals and historic markers explaining the town's past as a river port.
A restored 1928 movie palace in downtown Lumberton, now a performing arts center hosting touring shows, concerts, comedians, community theater and film screenings. Its ornate interior is part of the appeal. Check the season lineup online, and arrive early to find parking along nearby streets.
A local museum in Lumberton covering Robeson County's history, including its Native American, African American and European settlers, farming, railroads and military service, with artifacts and photographs. Admission is free or by donation. Opening hours are limited, so check before you visit.
The Robeson Planetarium and Science Center in Lumberton presents dome shows on astronomy and space science, along with science exhibits, mainly serving school groups and families. Public shows are held on set days. Check the schedule in advance, as public show times are limited and may need reservations.
Located on the campus of UNC Pembroke, about 12 miles west of Lumberton, this museum focuses on the Lumbee and other Native American peoples of the Southeast, with artifacts, art and changing exhibits. Admission is free. It is open on weekdays; check hours before driving over.
A large summer celebration of Lumbee culture held around the Fourth of July in Robeson County, centered in Pembroke with events across the area, including a parade, powwow, gospel music, arts and crafts, food and sports. It draws tens of thousands of visitors. Book lodging early, as hotels fill up quickly.
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North Carolina, United States
North Carolina, United States
North Carolina, United States
North Carolina, United States
North Carolina, United States
North Carolina, United States
North Carolina, United States
North Carolina, United States
Photo: Kenneth C. Zirkel, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
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Photo: DiscoA340, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: DiscoA340, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: Kenneth C. Zirkel, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
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Photo: Ammodramus, Wikimedia Commons, CC0