History Bladen County was first settled by Highland Scots who came to the Cape Fear Valley in 1734 seeking religious freedom. By the year 1753, there were about 5,000 people living in the county. It is the fiftieth oldest town in North Carolina. Climate Bladen County has an average temperature of 63 degrees and an average rainfall of 49.06 inches. Government Elizabethtown is governed by a mayor, city council and manager.
White Lake is governed by a mayor and city council.
Industry Choice industrial sites, manpower and an abundant water supply make the area an excellent choice for industry. Water is supplied by the Cape Fear River, one of North Carolina's navigable waterways. It is easily accessible by four major highways, N.C. 41, N.C. 87, N.C. 53 and U.S. 701., which make an east, west, north and south hub. Library facilities are excellent and conveniently located. Trauma victims are transported to major medical facilities by helicopter.