Since 1926, we've been Eastern North Carolina's trusted insurance partner, protecting families and businesses through every storm, celebration, and milestone. What started as one man's vision in downtown New Bern has grown into a legacy of service, expertise, and unwavering commitment to our community.
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Founded in 1926, The Insurance Center began with C.D. Lancaster selling insurance from the Elks Building in New Bern, NC. What started as one man's commitment to his community has grown into a legacy spanning four generations of trusted service.
In 1983, his son Claude and Rufus McAden merged with the Rexford Willis Agency to form Lancaster McAden, Willis Smith Company—The Insurance Center.
Today, we've grown into a full-service agency with over 45 dedicated employees and multiple branches throughout the region, proudly serving clients across the Southeast with personal, business, and hospitality insurance solutions.
Three pillars guide everything we do—ensuring you receive not just insurance, but genuine peace of mind backed by expertise, options, and dedicated service.
As an independent insurance agency, we work for you—not the insurance company. We partner with multiple top-rated carriers to offer a variety of coverage options tailored to fit your unique needs and budget. You'll never be limited to a single company's offerings.
The Insurance Center has been protecting what matters most for 100 years. Our licensed insurance agents bring the knowledge and expertise needed to help you select the best coverage for your home, vehicles, business, and family—navigating complexities so you don't have to.
At The Insurance Center, customer service is our passion. Our team of dedicated professionals offers personalized attention from selecting the right coverage to filing a claim. When you call, you'll speak with someone who knows your name—not an automated system.
For nearly 100 years, families and businesses have trusted The Insurance Center to protect what matters most. Here's what they have to say about working with us.
After Nan helped me get the perfect health insurance coverage last month, Jordan Gauta helped me get the perfect auto insurance coverage today. I highly recommend The Insurance Center!
I really appreciate the assistance Ali Cox gives me. I have been a client of your agency for eleven years now and I have to say her customer service is second to none…
Customer service at The Insurance Center is top notch! Each time I deal with Jordan, she handles what I need very quickly and professionally. When I make a mess of things, she goes above and …
Definitely my first choice for insurance. Give them a call and they will help you choose the right policy’s and best rates for your insurance.
Toni Carr was terrific. She took the time to answer all of our questions and made it easy to make our decision. I have been in sales/customer service for many years and was particularly impressed …
Sheri always goes above and beyond to make sure I have the best coverage that I can afford. I highly recommend Sheri, Nan and the insurance center.
Our team of over 45 licensed insurance professionals are ready to help you find the coverage that fits your life. We're not just agents—we're your neighbors, and we take that responsibility seriously.
Meet Our Team