Town of Watha NC

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Discover Watha

"Secret Life of Bees" Pink House
“Secret Life of Bees” Pink House

History

Pender County’s smallest town, Watha was incorporated in 1909. It’s been said that Watha is named after a Native American leader, Hiawatha. The town, located in northern Pender County between Burgaw and Wallace, was initially called South Washington, but the name was changed to end confusion with mail delivery due to another Washington in the state. In 2008, scenes from the movie “The Secret Lives of Bees” were filmed in Watha. In 2009, Watha celebrated its 100th anniversary.

EarlWellsJr

Earl Wells, Jr.
Founded 1989
Watha Community Building & Town Hall

Mayor Maurice E. Anderson
Founded 1989
Watha Community Building & Town Hall

MauriceAnderson

Interesting fact

Watha was home to the first courthouse in Pender County, but it suffered a disastrous fire in 1926 that destroyed a lot of the town.

There are many more historical pictures about Watha, NC on the Pender County Public Library Digital Archive.

First Pender County Courthouse - 3 views
Three views of the first courthouse in Pender County, Watha, North Carolina. It has since been torn down due to deterioration. Picture Courtesy of Pender County Public Library Digital Archive