Franklinton, in Franklin County, was first established as Franklin Depot in 1839 on land owned by Shemuel Kearney. His home, built in 1759, is located south of town and is currently the oldest residence in Franklin County. Franklin Depot changed its name to Franklinton in 1842 when the town was incorporated. The historic Sterling Cotton Mill, first opened in 1895 is located in Franklinton. In 1972, Sterling was purchased by Union Underwear Company, manufacturers of Fruit of the Loom. Sterling Cotton Mill closed in 1991 and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Burlington Industries also had a facility located in Franklinton. Known as Vamoco Mills, it closed in 1989, and was demolished in 2007.