The potato is native to the Peruvian Andes. It was brought to Europe in the 16th century by Spanish explorers. Early in the 18th century the plant was introduced in North America. The earliest authentic record of its cultivation in North America was dated 1719, at Londonderry, New Hampshire. Production in North Carolina probably began later in the 18th century in the northeast part of the state.
Potatoes are a versatile product.
Potatoes are served baked, roasted, boiled, mashed, fried, creamed and hashbrowned. They are used in salads, stews, soups, in pancakes and pastries. The variety of potato salads is endless, either hot or cold. Potatoes have long been a staple at mealtime. There has been a shift in how most potatoes are prepared.