SCOTLAND NECK, N.C. – This Halifax County town that traces its history to 1722 has been hard hit by job losses in recent years, but on Wednesday its leaders celebrated the landing of a new textile plant.

Carter & Mayes said it would open a manufacturing facility, invest $1 million and create at least 115 jobs over the next two years.

"Our company sees real opportunity for growth within the service industry. This requires us to start up new operations in North Carolina," said Harry Candland, vice-president of Carter & Mayes. "Our decision was based on location, the availability of a vacant building, the presence of a skilled workforce, and the assistance and pro-business attitude of the Town of Scotland Neck. We are impressed by what the Town is doing for itself and look forward to becoming a member of the community."

Unemployment in Halifax County was 6.5 percent in December, one of the highest jobless rates in North Carolina. Statewide, the jobless rate dropped to 4.6 percent in January.

The company chose Scotland Neck due in part to a $50,000 building reuse grant it received from the North Carolina Rural Economic Development Center. The facility will be located in the former Scotland Neck Cotton Mills complex. It has been used for textile manufacturing since 1890.

Carter & Mayes, a 39-year-old company, manufactures uniforms. It is based in Paden City, W. Va.

“North Carolina and the Town of Scotland Neck have had a rich heritage of textile manufacturing over the past 100 years. Unfortunately, announcements like this have become increasingly rare.” Mayor Robert Partin said. “However, it is reassuring that this heritage will not disappear in the age of outsourcing and global competition. The Town is excited that a company with the reputation and stability of Carter & Mayes chose Scotland Neck for its new manufacturing plant.”

Working in partnership with the Rural Center and the Golden LEAF Foundation, Scotland Neck has created 241 jobs and more than $14.5 million in public/private investment since 2002.