Abbottsburg, The Little Town That WAS documents the birth, development, and eventual demise of the town of Abbottsburg, North Carolina. The story unfolds as the book brings to light the reason the town was born, then goes on to describe each step in its history. Contributory factors such as transportation and natural resources are explained. It gives the reader a glimpse through time, bringing to life the story of influential early residents and their contributions. The simple lifestyle of the town's early residents in the mid to late nineteenth century is revealed. The book tells the story of how a powerful Union army Colonel returned to North Carolina following the Civil War and established a large lumber business that so endeared him to the local people that they re-named the town for him! He soon became a political figure and was elected to the North Carolina Legislature and soon thereafter, to the United Sates Senate! Then, after flourishing for several years natural resources were depleted, population dwindled, businesses closed and gradually the town ceased to be, its incorporation repealed. Finally, the book gives insight as to why the town faded away to again become just a rural unincorporated community. Much historical data is included as well.