Sitting amid tree-lined streets and historical residences, Carthage is the oldest town in Moore County. It was incorporated in 1796, serving as the county seat. The first courthouse, “a rather crude log building, small in size,” was constructed in 1785 and given the name of Carthage. The remainder of the town was not laid out until 1803 and officially became the county seat in 1804.   In 1922, the fifth and currant historical courthouse was built and moved to the center of town. Today, as in the past, activities in Carthage revolve around the courthouse.  The national historic district of Carthage is very proud that it has over fifty buildings and residences of historical significance dating back to the pre-civil war period.  Alexander Kelly and Thomas Tyson founded the Tyson Jones Buggy Factory in 1855. The factory brought prosperity to Carthage by manufacturing the “Cadillac of horse drawn carriages.” This major Carthage enterprise remained the largest factory in Moore County far into the 20th century. Reaching its peak in 1890 the factory was producing 3000 vehicles a year. The buggy company met its demise with the dawn of the automobile. Carthage is proud of its heritage, its exceptional location, the peaceful tree lines streets, and beautiful historical residences. The Buggy Festival in mid May is the annual event that honors the town’s heritage as home of one of the world’s former foremost carriage makers.