A Little About Burgaw, North Carolina
Nestled in the heart of Pender County, Burgaw is a small town that possesses many charms. The town is known for its friendly people and picturesque surroundings; however it boasts ample economic opportunities and has convenient access to the amenities of an urban center. It is located 25 minutes west of Wilmington’s ILM International Airport and the University of North Carolina at Wilmington; Interstate 40, NC Highway 53, and US Highway 117 run through town, providing several avenues to a variety of shopping and fine dining destinations. While bordered by abundant forests and bountiful farmlands, Burgaw is also a mere 25 minutes away from area beaches. All the benefits of a forward-looking, thriving community are united with its rich historical fabric. Whether a visitor or long-term resident, Burgaw is sure to contain whatever it is you wish to find.
The Town of Burgaw originally prospered as an important railroad junction, forming around the oldest train depot in North Carolina CIRA 1850 and part of the North Carolina Civil War Trails.
The rich farmlands, festivals, and historic architecture of the town have helped Burgaw grow tremendously over the years. The fertile soils of nearby fields have produced plentiful crops of corn, tobacco, soybeans, cotton, and several types of berries for generations. Blueberries were first cultivated in Pender County in the 1930s is the blueberry, the first in the state; Burgaw is home of the North Carolina Blueberry Festival, held annually on the third Saturday in June. Not only does the festival attract residents of nearby towns, it brings in visitors from across the United States. The festival continues to increase in size each year and has become a destination event. Burgaw is also the home of the annual Pender County Spring Festival. This local event is held each May, showcasing local entertainment and supplying fun for the whole family. Many people set up booths on the courthouse square to sell handmade crafts, along with homegrown foods and plants.
As you walk around the town of Burgaw, you may see familiar sites and buildings, as the town has been the host of several movies, including “Silver Bullet” (1985), “Windmills of the Gods” (1987), “The Rose Garden” (1995), “A Mother’s Instinct” (1995), “The Summer of Ben Tillman” (1996), “Freedom Song” (2000), “The Runaway” (2000), “The Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood” (2002), “My Life in Idlewild” (2004), and “The Secret Life of Bees” (2008). The film industry has been attracted to this charming town because of its 18th and 19th century historical architectural design.