Settled by the Boney family in the early 19th century, the area evolved from a frontier settlement into a thriving community. The completion of the Wilmington and Weldon Railroad in 1840, which was the longest railroad at the time, spanning over 160 miles, spurred the development of many towns along its route, including Wallace. The railroad played a crucial role in the town's growth. Gabriel Boney, a local entrepreneur, seized the opportunities provided by the railroad and by 1870, had established a cotton gin, turpentine distillery, and general store, laying the foundation for the town. In 1873, the town was incorporated as Duplin Roads. The Wilmington and Weldon line merged with several other railroads to form the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad Company whose headquarters were located in Wilmington North Carolina. In 1899, the Town was renamed Wallace in honor of Stephen D. Wallace, President of the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad.
Gabriel Boney later introduced strawberries to the region, which became a vital industry for Wallace, earning it the title of the "World's Largest Strawberry Exchange." The Town's annual Strawberry Festival became a cherished community tradition.
While agriculture remained central to Wallace's development, the focus gradually shifted from strawberries to tobacco. Today, Duplin County, including Wallace, is known for its prominent livestock industry, particularly hogs and poultry, cementing its status as a major agricultural hub.
Gabriel Boney later introduced strawberries to the region, which became a vital industry for Wallace, earning it the title of the "World's Largest Strawberry Exchange." The Town's annual Strawberry Festival became a cherished community tradition.
While agriculture remained central to Wallace's development, the focus gradually shifted from strawberries to tobacco. Today, Duplin County, including Wallace, is known for its prominent livestock industry, particularly hogs and poultry, cementing its status as a major agricultural hub.