Tyrrell was formed in 1729 from Chowan, Currituck and Pasquotank. It was named in honor of Sir John Tyrrell, who at one time was one of the Lords Proprietors. It is in the eastern section of the State and is bounded by Dare, Hyde and Washington counties and the Albemarle Sound. The present land area is 391.73 square miles and the 1990 population was 3,856. It is quite evident that a courthouse was not built until some time between 1740 to 1751. Prior to this date courts were held in private homes, but generally at the home of William Frayley, (also spelled Frailes, Frylies or Fryleys). In 1751, court was held at the courthouse on Kindrick's Creek. Between 1774 and 1776, court was held at the home of Benjamin Spruill. Between 1777 and 1800 court was held at the courthouse on Scuppernong River. In 1799, commissioners were named to erect the public buildings in Elizabeth Town. On July 28, 1800, the first court was held in Elizabeth Town. In 1801, Elizabeth Town was changed to Columbia, which was recorded as the county seat in 1802. Columbia is the county seat.