Aberdeen

Aberdeen blends rich Scottish roots, railroad history, and small-town charm with vibrant shops, dining, and beloved traditions like the quirky Sardine Festival.

Aberdeen’s humble beginnings date back as early as the 1700s when Highlanders fled Scotland for the shores of North Carolina and migrated up the Cape Fear River.

Originally called Bethesda, in the mid-1850’s the name was changed to Blue’s Crossing, in honor of Malcolm Blue. Soon after, the Civil War brought turmoil and decimation to the area as many of the local men fought and died in battle. The men who survived returned to start new businesses, laying the foundation for the era of prosperity to come.

With the completion of the Raleigh & Augusta Railroad after the Civil War, the improved transportation transformed the town into the commercial center of Moore County, allowing the tar, pitch and turpentine industry to blossom. The area’s residents began to centralize into a closer knit community and in 1888, the town’s name was changed to Aberdeen. Soon after, farming became a staple of the area, followed by the birth of the resort industry.

Today, Aberdeen has embraced the history found in the downtown district but has also progressed with the development of new businesses, charming shops, restaurants and hotels. Visit www.TownOfAberdeen.net to learn more.

Aberdeen is home to the famous and very small town fun Sardine Festival.

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