When North Carolina joined with the other colonies and declared its independence from Great Britain in 1776, 35 county governments existed in the state, with most concentrated near the coast. As the population increased and the citizens began migrating westward, counties increased in number and decreased in size so that citizens would have easier access to government services. By 1800, there were 65 counties. In 1900, there were 97 counties. The newest county – Avery – was formed in 1911.