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Selma, located in the heart of Johnston County in eastern North Carolina, traces its origins to the mid-19th century when the region was still dominated by small farms and settlements tied to early agricultural traditions. Before European settlement, the area was home to Indigenous peoples who relied on the fertile soils along the Neuse River Basin for hunting, farming, and trade. As settlers arrived in the 1700s, Johnston County began to take shape, with small communities emerging around mills, churches, and early transportation routes. Selma itself was not officially founded until 1867, shortly after the Civil War, when its location along a developing railroad corridor transformed it from rural farmland into a growing town with strategic regional importance.

The establishment of the North Carolina Railroad played a defining role in the economic growth of Selma. Recognizing the opportunity presented by the rail line, local landowners invested in the development of a depot, warehouses, and commercial structures that would support trade and passenger travel. Selma soon became a shipping hub for cotton, tobacco, timber, and other agricultural products that defined Johnston County's economy. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Selma thrived as a railroad town, attracting merchants, craftsmen, and families who built homes and businesses close to the bustling rail lines. Manufacturing, small industry, and retail also emerged, creating a balanced and prosperous local economy.

Infrastructure improvements continued to drive Selma's development well into the 20th century. The construction of major highways, including US-70 and later Interstate 95, positioned Selma as a crossroads for regional and interstate travel. These transportation networks enhanced the movement of goods and strengthened the town's role as a commercial gateway for eastern North Carolina. The intersection of rail and highway routes allowed Selma to maintain economic resilience even as agriculture shifted in the modern era. Expanded utilities, public services, and roadway enhancements supported residential and industrial growth while preserving the town's historical roots.

Selma's community character has long been shaped by its blend of railroad heritage, small-town charm, and cultural diversity. Historic districts and preserved architecture reflect its past as a vibrant rail community, while local churches, civic organizations, and schools continue to anchor community life. Festivals, events, and cultural gatherings—such as Railroad Days—celebrate Selma's longstanding ties to transportation history and bring residents together year after year. The town has welcomed growth while maintaining a strong sense of identity tied to tradition, local pride, and community involvement. Neighborhoods range from historic residential streets to modern subdivisions, attracting both longtime residents and newcomers seeking a welcoming environment.

Today, Selma is known for its convenient location, affordability, and blend of historic and contemporary amenities. The revitalized downtown features shops, restaurants, and cultural spaces that attract locals and visitors alike. Proximity to Smithfield and the larger Research Triangle region allows residents easy access to employment, education, and entertainment while enjoying the slower pace and comfort of small-town living. With parks, recreational facilities, historic attractions, and family-friendly neighborhoods, Selma remains a desirable community that honors its past while embracing continued growth and development. Its strategic location along I-95 continues to support economic opportunities, making Selma both a residential haven and a regional destination.