Sesquicentennial

On February 11, 1874, the bustling town that sprang up from the crossing of the Western and Chatham railroads was granted official incorporation and named "Town of Sanford." The incorporation became effective on April 1, 1874. 

On March 5, 1947, Sanford merged with the neighboring Town of Jonesboro and became the "City of Sanford." The merger went into effect on July 1, 1947. 

From February 2024 through April 2025, Sanford's residents and visitors celebrated the city's rich 150 year history with activities and events that commemorate its history while looking forward to its vibrant future.

Learn more on our sesquicentennial website.

The celebratory year began with a special proclamation at the February 4, 2024, meeting of the Sanford City Council.

On April 1, 2025, Mayor Salmon read another special proclamation recognizing the activities and events of the year.

Sesquicentennial Committee

Bob Joyce - Chair
Wendy Bryan - Sanford Tourism Development Authority/Visit Sanford
Kelli Laudate - Downtown Sanford, Inc.
Kelly Miller - City of Sanford, NC
Hunter Randolph - Lee County Library