In 1889, two years after the towns of Kenly and Benson were incorporated, Four Oaks, another community along the north-south railroad received its charter. There's an interesting story as to how Four Oaks received its name. It seems that in 1885, the construction boss of the new railroad, a Colonel Bridgers, was staying with one of the landowners in the new unnamed town. An oak tree in the backyard of the house caught his eye. Four large trunk-like branches had sprouted from the single trunk of the tree. The tree had been cut 35 years earlier by a hunter who had trapped a possum in the tree. As it turns out, an oak tree, a possum, a possum-hunting farmer and a railroad official helped name the town.
Today, Four Oaks, is a quaint little community whose civic-minded people participate in numerous community activities. Activities of interest in the town of Four Oaks are the Acorn Festival celebration each May and the Four Oaks Christmas Parade, tree lighting and live nativity.
For Town of Four Oaks information contact:
Town Clerk
Town of Four Oaks
304 N. Main St.
Four Oaks, NC 27524
(919) 963-3112
