National Register Listing

Waynesville Main Street Historic District

Roughly bounded by Depot St., Church and E. Sts, Wall St., and Montgomery St., Waynesville, NC
Local significance of the district:
Commerce; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2005.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

The Cherokee Indians originally inhabited much of western North Carolina before being forcibly removed by the federal government in the 1800s. Today, the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians still maintains a reservation in the western part of the state.
North Carolina random facts
Haywood County, located in western North Carolina, has a rich and fascinating history dating back thousands of years. The region was originally inhabited by several Native American tribes, including the Cherokee, who were forced out of the area during the infamous Trail of Tears in the 19th century. European settlement of the area began in the late 18th century, with pioneers establishing farms and small communities along the rivers and valleys.

During the American Civil War, Haywood County was divided in its allegiances, with some residents supporting the Union and others siding with the Confederacy. The region experienced several skirmishes and battles, including the Battle of Bethel and the Battle of Waynesville. However, the impact of the war on Haywood County was relatively minimal compared to other areas.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Haywood County experienced significant growth due to the development of industries such as agriculture, lumber, and textiles. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s facilitated the transportation of goods and helped spur economic growth in the region. Haywood County became known for its agricultural production, especially in the cultivation of apples, which led to the establishment of a thriving apple industry that continues to this day.

In more recent years, Haywood County has focused on preserving its natural beauty and promoting tourism. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which partially lies within the county, attracts millions of visitors each year who come to explore the area's scenic landscapes, hiking trails, and outdoor recreational opportunities. Haywood County has also preserved its historical sites and has become a popular destination for those interested in local history and culture. The county continues to thrive as a vibrant community that balances its past with its aspirations for the future.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Haywood County, North Carolina.

  • 1808 - Haywood County is established
  • 1828 - The county seat is named Waynesville, in honor of Revolutionary War General Anthony Wayne
  • 1876 - The Haywood County Courthouse is built, becoming a prominent landmark in the county
  • 1925 - The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is established, including a portion of Haywood County
  • 1940 - The Blue Ridge Parkway, a scenic highway, is completed, passing through Haywood County
  • 1997 - The Shining Rock Wilderness area is designated, protecting the unique natural features of the region
  • 2004 - The Pigeon River Gorge is designated a National Wild and Scenic River, preserving its beauty and ecological value