When you see the Nationwide eagle, you're looking at more than just an insurance logo—you're seeing a symbol that has represented trust, stability, and genuine care for American families for nearly a century. But what makes Nationwide truly special for North Carolina residents isn't just their size or their national presence. It's their roots.
As a Nationwide agent serving Surry County and surrounding areas since 2004, I've witnessed firsthand why this carrier continues to be one of the best choices for North Carolina families—especially those in rural areas, on farms, or with unique property situations that other carriers often decline. Let me share the remarkable story of how Nationwide became what it is today, and why that history matters when you're choosing insurance protection for your family.
The Farm Mutual Origins: Born from Necessity, Built on Trust
The Nationwide story begins not in a corporate boardroom, but in the fields and farmhouses of rural Ohio in 1926. At that time, farmers across America faced a serious problem: the major insurance companies of the day either refused to insure farm properties or charged prohibitively expensive rates.
Murray D. Lincoln, a visionary leader in the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation, recognized this crisis. Farmers were the backbone of America, yet they couldn't get affordable, reliable insurance protection for their homes, barns, livestock, and equipment. So Lincoln did something revolutionary—he created an insurance company owned by and for farmers.
The Birth of Farm Bureau Mutual Automobile Insurance Company
On April 17, 1926, Farm Bureau Mutual Automobile Insurance Company was founded with a simple but powerful mission: provide quality, affordable automobile insurance to Ohio farmers and their families. The initial investment? Just $10,000. The first policy? Written for farmer Raymond P. Cook.
What made this company different from day one was its mutual structure. Unlike stock insurance companies that answer to distant shareholders, Farm Bureau Mutual was owned by its policyholders. This meant every decision was made with customers' best interests at heart, not Wall Street's profit demands.
Expanding Beyond Ohio: Nationwide Comes to North Carolina
The company's early success with Ohio farmers proved that the model worked. Within just a few years, Farm Bureau Mutual expanded beyond auto insurance to offer fire insurance for homes (1934) and life insurance (1935). But the truly transformative moment came in 1955.
The Name Change That Changed Everything
In 1955, the company made a strategic decision that would define its future: it changed its name to Nationwide Insurance. Why? Because the company had grown far beyond its Ohio farm roots and was now serving families across America—including North Carolina.
The name "Nationwide" wasn't just marketing—it was a promise. A promise that the same values that protected Ohio farmers would now protect families from coast to coast. And for North Carolina, this expansion would prove to be a game-changer.
Why North Carolina Was a Natural Fit
North Carolina in the 1950s and 60s shared many characteristics with Nationwide's original Ohio customer base:
- Strong agricultural heritage: NC was (and still is) a major agricultural state with tobacco farms, dairy operations, livestock, and diverse crop production
- Rural communities: Much of North Carolina remained rural, with families living on larger properties that standard insurance companies found difficult to insure
- Underserved market: Many NC families struggled to find affordable, comprehensive insurance that understood their unique needs
- Values alignment: North Carolinians valued the same things Nationwide was built on—honesty, community, and taking care of your neighbor
The Growth Timeline: Nationwide's Evolution to Industry Leader
Understanding Nationwide's history helps you appreciate why they handle claims fairly, why they have the financial strength to be there when you need them, and why they still understand rural and farm properties better than most carriers.
Nationwide Through the Decades
Farm Bureau Mutual Automobile Insurance Company founded in Columbus, Ohio with $10,000 capital. First policy written for farmer Raymond P. Cook.
Company begins offering fire insurance to protect farmers' homes and barns, addressing a critical need in rural America.
Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company established to provide life insurance protection for farm families.
Despite World War II, company reaches $13 million in assets, demonstrating financial stability during challenging times.
Company officially becomes "Nationwide Insurance" as it expands to serve families in all 50 states, including North Carolina.
Nationwide builds strong agent network across NC, becoming known for excellent service to rural and farm properties in counties like Surry, Yadkin, and Wilkes.
Company introduces innovative products while maintaining commitment to core values. Reaches $7 billion in assets.
Nationwide becomes one of the first major insurers to offer online policy management and claims reporting.
Mobile apps, 24/7 claims service, and digital innovation while maintaining personal agent relationships that customers value.
Nationwide ranks among America's top 10 largest insurance companies with over $260 billion in assets, while still maintaining mutual structure focused on policyholders.
"Nationwide Insurance wasn't built by Wall Street—it was built by farmers in 1926 who knew what real protection meant. That legacy matters when you're choosing insurance for your NC family."
Click to Tweet ThisWhy Choose Nationwide Insurance in North Carolina Today?
History is interesting, but what really matters is this: why should you choose Nationwide for your insurance needs right now? As a Nationwide agent who also represents multiple other carriers, I can give you an honest assessment.
1. Financial Strength You Can Trust
Nationwide consistently earns A+ ratings from AM Best (the gold standard for insurance financial strength). With over $260 billion in assets, they have the resources to pay claims even after major catastrophes. When Hurricane Florence hit North Carolina in 2018, Nationwide paid out hundreds of millions in claims to NC policyholders—and did it efficiently.
2. Understanding Rural and Farm Properties
This is where Nationwide's farm mutual roots really shine. Many insurance carriers:
- Won't insure homes on more than 5-10 acres
- Decline properties with outbuildings, barns, or shops
- Refuse coverage for hobby farms with livestock
- Won't insure older homes (50+ years) in rural areas
- Charge excessive premiums for gravel driveways or well water
Nationwide understands these properties because they were built for them. I've placed coverage for properties that every other carrier declined—and Nationwide provided better coverage at competitive rates.
3. Exceptional Claims Service
The true test of any insurance company isn't when you buy the policy—it's when you file a claim. Nationwide consistently ranks among the top carriers for claims satisfaction. They offer:
- 24/7 claims reporting via phone, app, or online
- On Your Side® Review for disputed claims
- Fast claim processing (often within 48-72 hours for straightforward claims)
- Local adjusters who understand North Carolina properties
- Direct repair programs with vetted, quality contractors
4. Comprehensive Product Suite
Nationwide offers virtually every type of insurance a North Carolina family might need:
- Auto Insurance: Liability, collision, comprehensive, uninsured motorist
- Homeowners Insurance: Including mobile homes and manufactured homes
- Farm & Ranch: Specialized coverage for agricultural operations
- Business Insurance: For small businesses and contractors
- Life Insurance: Term, whole, and universal life products
- Umbrella Liability: Extra protection beyond standard policies
- Specialty Coverage: Motorcycles, RVs, boats, ATVs
5. Multi-Policy Discounts and Savings
Nationwide offers some of the best bundling discounts in the industry. A typical North Carolina family that bundles home and auto insurance with Nationwide saves 15-25% compared to buying separate policies. Additional discounts include:
- Accident-free discount (up to 20% off)
- Good student discount (up to 15% off for students with good grades)
- SmartRide® usage-based discount (up to 40% off for safe drivers)
- Early quote discount (up to 10% off for shopping early)
- Continuous coverage discount
- Homeownership discount on auto policies
Why Work With a Local Nationwide Agent?
While Nationwide offers online quotes and 1-800 numbers, working with a local independent agent like me gives you a crucial advantage: I represent Nationwide PLUS 7 other top carriers. This means I can compare Nationwide against competitors to ensure you're getting the absolute best value.
- Shop Nationwide + competitors in one conversation
- Local service you can trust—I'm your neighbor, not a call center
- Expert guidance on rural properties, farms, and unique situations
Which Nationwide Coverage is Right for You?
Answer these quick questions to discover which Nationwide products best fit your needs
Want a personalized quote? Call me at (336) 835-1993 or get a quote online for exact pricing on Nationwide coverage.
Nationwide's Specific Advantages for North Carolina Families
While Nationwide serves all 50 states, they have particular strengths that make them exceptionally well-suited for North Carolina policyholders:
Hurricane and Severe Weather Coverage
North Carolina faces unique weather risks—from coastal hurricanes to mountain ice storms to severe thunderstorms and tornadoes across the Piedmont. Nationwide has proven themselves during major NC weather events:
- Hurricane Florence (2018): Nationwide deployed hundreds of adjusters to NC and paid claims quickly
- Ice Storm of 2022: Nationwide processed power surge and freezing pipe claims efficiently across the mountains
- Tornado outbreaks: Mobile claim centers and rapid response teams
Agricultural and Farm Coverage Excellence
North Carolina has over 50,000 farms spanning tobacco, livestock, poultry, produce, Christmas trees, and more. Nationwide's farm insurance products are among the most comprehensive available:
- Coverage for farm dwellings and farm structures
- Livestock and animal mortality insurance
- Farm equipment and machinery protection
- Liability coverage for agricultural operations
- Income protection options
Understanding NC's Rural Character
Despite our growing cities, much of North Carolina remains rural. Nationwide understands properties that other carriers find challenging:
- Homes on larger acreage (10, 20, 50+ acres)
- Properties with private wells and septic systems
- Homes with gravel driveways
- Older homes with historical significance
- Properties with wood-burning stoves or heat sources
- Dwellings not visible from the road
North Carolina Insurance Requirements
If you're shopping for Nationwide insurance in NC, here's what you need to know about state requirements:
- Minimum auto liability: $30,000/$60,000 bodily injury, $25,000 property damage (Nationwide recommends higher limits)
- Uninsured motorist coverage: Required in NC and essential given 7-8% of drivers are uninsured
- Homeowners insurance: Not required by law, but mandatory if you have a mortgage
- Flood insurance: Separate from homeowners; Nationwide can help arrange through NFIP
"I have a 35-acre farm property with an old tobacco barn, shop building, and a 1940s farmhouse. Four other insurance companies either declined me or quoted ridiculous rates. Bill got me excellent Nationwide coverage at a price I could actually afford. When we had storm damage to the barn, Nationwide paid the claim quickly and fairly. This is real insurance for real rural properties."
Common Questions About Nationwide Insurance in North Carolina
Is Nationwide Insurance more expensive than other carriers in North Carolina?
Not necessarily. While Nationwide isn't always the cheapest option, they're often very competitive—especially when you bundle multiple policies (home + auto). More importantly, Nationwide often provides better coverage for the same price as budget carriers. I always compare Nationwide against 7 other carriers to ensure you're getting the best value. In my experience, about 40% of the time Nationwide offers the best overall value when you factor in coverage quality, claims service, and price together.
What makes Nationwide different from State Farm or Allstate?
The biggest difference is ownership structure. State Farm and Allstate have captive agents who only sell their company's products. Nationwide agents can be either captive OR independent (like me). As an independent agent, I can offer you Nationwide if they're the best fit, or recommend another carrier if it's not. Additionally, Nationwide's farm mutual heritage means they understand rural and agricultural properties better than many competitors. If you have a unique property situation, Nationwide is often more willing to work with you.
Can Nationwide insure my farm or rural property in Surry County?
Absolutely! This is one of Nationwide's strongest areas. Whether you have a working tobacco farm, a cattle operation, a hobby farm with chickens and goats, or just a rural home on large acreage, Nationwide has products specifically designed for you. I've successfully placed Nationwide coverage on properties with tobacco barns, livestock, extensive outbuildings, and other features that make standard carriers nervous. If you've been declined elsewhere due to your rural property, Nationwide is definitely worth considering.
How does Nationwide's claims process work?
Nationwide makes filing claims simple: you can report via their mobile app, online portal, or by calling 24/7. Once reported, a claims adjuster is assigned (usually within 24 hours). For property claims, they'll schedule an inspection. For auto claims, they often offer direct repair programs with vetted shops, or you can choose your own. Payment is typically processed within 48-72 hours for straightforward claims. As your agent, I also advocate for you throughout the process to ensure fair treatment.
Does Nationwide offer discounts for bundling policies?
Yes! Nationwide's multi-policy discount is one of their best features. When you bundle home and auto insurance together, you typically save 15-25% on both policies. If you add other policies like umbrella liability, boat, motorcycle, or RV insurance, the discounts stack even higher. For a typical North Carolina family, bundling with Nationwide saves $400-800 annually compared to buying separate policies from different companies. I always quote both bundled and unbundled pricing so you can see the exact savings.
Should I get Nationwide insurance online or through a local agent?
While you can buy Nationwide directly online, working with a local independent agent like me offers significant advantages. First, I can compare Nationwide against 7 other carriers in minutes to ensure it's truly your best option. Second, I can help you understand your coverage options and avoid common mistakes. Third, when you have a question or need to file a claim, you have a local person you can call—not just an 800 number. And fourth, my service costs you nothing extra; I'm compensated by the insurance companies, not by marking up your premium. The choice is yours, but most of my clients appreciate having a trusted advisor who knows their situation personally.
The Bottom Line: A Legacy That Still Matters Today
Nationwide's story—from a small farm mutual in 1926 Ohio to one of America's most trusted insurance companies—is more than just history. It's a reflection of values that still guide the company today: putting policyholders first, understanding real families' needs, and being there when it matters most.
For North Carolina families, especially those in rural areas or with unique property situations, Nationwide's farm roots translate into real advantages. They understand your tobacco barn isn't just a building—it's part of your heritage. They know your 35 acres isn't excessive—it's your slice of freedom. They recognize that your 1940s farmhouse isn't a risk—it's a home with character.
As a Nationwide agent serving Surry County and surrounding areas, I'm proud to represent a company with this kind of legacy. But I'm also committed to ensuring Nationwide is truly the right fit for your specific situation. That's why I compare them against multiple other carriers for every quote.
Want to see if Nationwide is right for you? Let's find out together.
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Read moreAbout Bill Layne
Bill Layne is an independent insurance agent and proud Nationwide representative serving Northwest North Carolina since 2004. Based in Elkin, Bill represents 8+ top carriers including Nationwide, Progressive, Travelers, and more—allowing him to find the perfect coverage at the best price for each client. Bill specializes in rural properties, farms, and hard-to-insure situations that other agents often turn away. A lifelong North Carolinian, Bill understands the unique insurance challenges facing families in Surry, Yadkin, Wilkes, and Stokes counties. When he's not helping clients, you'll find Bill supporting local events, volunteering in the community, and enjoying everything the North Carolina mountains have to offer.