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Carthage, North Carolina, situated in the Sandhills region of Moore County, has a long and storied history that traces back to the area's early Indigenous inhabitants. Long before European settlement, the region was home to Native American groups who utilized the longleaf pine forests and surrounding waterways for hunting, trade, and seasonal settlement. Early European settlers arrived in the 18th century, establishing farms and small homesteads in the fertile uplands of the Sandhills. By 1796, Carthage had become the county seat of Moore County, solidifying its role as a political and administrative center for the surrounding agricultural communities.

The town's economic development grew steadily throughout the 19th century. Agriculture remained the backbone of Carthage's early economy, with farmers producing cotton, corn, tobacco, and turpentine harvested from the longleaf pine forests. As the Industrial Revolution expanded throughout the South, Carthage grew into a thriving manufacturing center thanks to its most famous enterprise, the Tyson & Jones Buggy Company. Established in the mid-1800s, the factory became renowned for producing high-quality horse-drawn carriages and buggies that were shipped nationwide. At its peak, the company produced thousands of buggies a year, and Carthage became nationally known for its craftsmanship and industry. Even after the rise of the automobile, the legacy of the buggy era remained strong in the local memory and economy.

Infrastructure improvements played a major role in shaping Carthage's growth and connectivity. Key roadways linked Carthage with the neighboring communities of Southern Pines and Pinehurst, while improved rail access in the region made it easier for the town's goods—particularly buggies and agricultural products—to reach broader markets. The courthouse square became the hub of civic and commercial life, with businesses, churches, and schools developing in the blocks surrounding it. As road networks expanded and the automobile age advanced, Carthage continued to serve as a central waypoint within Moore County, maintaining its importance as both a governmental center and a commercial town.

The character of Carthage has always reflected a sense of tradition, community pride, and cultural richness. Neighborhoods developed around the historic downtown, where brick storefronts, civic buildings, and preserved historic structures continue to define the town's charm. Carthage is perhaps best known for the annual Buggy Festival, which began in the 1980s as a tribute to the Tyson & Jones Buggy Company. This beloved event brings thousands of visitors to town each year to celebrate Carthage's heritage with arts and crafts, musical performances, food vendors, and historical exhibitions. Churches, civic groups, and community institutions remain central to daily life, fostering a welcoming atmosphere and strong ties among residents.

Modern-day Carthage blends its rich history with the conveniences of contemporary living. As the county seat, it continues to house important municipal and judicial functions, while residential neighborhoods have expanded to accommodate a growing population seeking a quieter lifestyle near major employment centers. Carthage benefits from its close proximity to the towns of Southern Pines and Pinehurst, known for their golf resorts, equestrian facilities, and thriving local economies. Outdoor recreation is abundant, with access to parks, trails, and the natural beauty of the Sandhills region. Today, Carthage stands as a community that honors its past while embracing future growth, offering residents a blend of historic charm, civic pride, and modern amenities.