The City of Albemarle is the County Seat of Stanly County, and was incorporated in 1857.  It is named for George Monck, the Duke of Albemarle, who was one of the eight Lords Proprietors granted the province of Carolina in 1663 by King Charles II.  The City’s early growth in the late 19th century and early 20th century was generated by the growth of large textile mills.  These mills remained an important part of the City’s economy until the 1980’s and 1990’s when a more diversified economy began to emerge.  The City currently covers an area of 15 square miles, and has a population of 15,828.Located in the beautiful Uwharrie Lakes region of Piedmont North Carolina, Albemarle is a business friendly community that still retains the warmth and charm of a small town. To all new visitors and returning guests, "Welcome to Albemarle!"