Williston is located between Smyrna and Davis along Highway 70 East heading toward the northern part of "Downeast." One of Williston's earliest settlers, John Jarrott, received a land grant from King George in 1719 for the area which now includes Williston. Jarrett Bay was named after John Jarrott. A seafood plant specializing in clams was opened in Williston during the 1920s and Williston soon gained a reputation as North Carolina's "clam capitol." Williston features a small commercial garden center, stained glass shop, and small art gallery.