What began as a tiny town birthed by the railroad is slowly transforming into a thriving community of 7,000 residents sustained by a rise in small business and commercial enterprise. The town welcomed its first major corporation to town in 2005 when Sysco, a nationally recognized food distributor, opened a plant on the outskirts of town. The company has added jobs and will contribute significantly to the town’s tax base in coming years.
Selma is home to a local theater, two schools and a renovated train depot. The town is seated along Interstate 95, halfway between New York and Florida. The town also abuts U.S. 70.

What are the local attractions?

Three annual festivals provide a variety of entertainment options for citizens both young and old. A complete list of special events can be found here. In recent years, the town has heralded the arrival of nearly a dozen antique merchants. These small business owners helped organize an Autumn Antiques Festival that is quickly becoming a draw for both buyers and browsers all along the Eastern Seaboard.
Also offered is the American Music Jubilee, a 13-member musical variety show featured at The Rudy Theater in Selma’s Uptown District. For scheduling info and ticket prices, visit the show’s Web site.

The Greater Smithfield-Selma Area Chamber of Commerce has compiled a special page for newcomers. The Website features links to local libraries and media outlets as well as phone numbers for utility companies.

What's the history?

Selma was chartered in 1873. In the late 19th century, two railroads, the North Carolina and Atlantic Coast Line, intersected at the town, providing a boost for Johnston County's economic development and making Selma a major switching station for trains along the East Coast. One famous resident was Lunsford Richardson Sr., who invented Vicks VapoRub. (Source: Johnston County: its history since 1746.)

Who runs the town?

The Selma Town Council is a five-member elected board with regular monthly meetings and occasional work sessions. Here is how you can find a list of board members and their contact information.

Who lives here?

The median age in Selma was 31.2 as of the 2000 census. The racial breakdown is 47.1 percent white, 40.3 percent black, and .2 percent Asian. Hispanics or Latinos of any race make up 19 percent of the population. Bachelors degrees or higher are held by 10.1 percent of the population over 25.

What about public safety?

Police services are provided by the Selma Police Department. Here are the crime statistics for 2006 (source: SBI):

Murder: 1

Rape: 6

Robbery: 28

Aggravated Assault: 40

Burglary: 233

Larcenies: 219

Motor Vehicle Theft: 27