The county became a political entity in 1855, and was formed from Cumberland County. It was named for the Revolutionary War Patriot, Cornelius Harnett, delegate to the Continental Congress. The first settlers came in the mid 1720's, and were followed by the Highland "Scots." The Scots settled in the foot hills rather than in the rich alluvial soil area of the Coastal Plains. The Scots came up the Cape Fear River in ever increasing numbers and settled in western Harnett County.

The Harnett County Economic Development Commission (EDC) offers a wide range of recruitment services to help business and industry in their relocation or expansion decision process.

The Harnett County EDC is committed to the creation of a thriving and progressive business environment as well as a high standard of life for our community.

Harnett County is now moving into the industrial development phase. Community planning is being undertaken on an unprecedented scale and new leadership is emerging which holds promise of broadening the county's economic base. The western and southwestern portion of Harnett County could easily become the playground of East-Central Carolina. The terrain, the geological character and its proximity to large and growing metropolitan areas place this portion in an excellent competitive position. History is made by people, and the people of Harnett County accept the challenge that tomorrow shall hold unlimited opportunity.