National Register Listing

Downtown Spruce Pine Historic District

Roughly bounded by Oak Ave., Locust St., Topaz St., and NC 226, Spruce Pines, NC
Local significance of the district:
Architecture; Commerce

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2003.

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.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, North Carolina became a leading producer of furniture, textiles, and tobacco products. The state's nickname, the "Tar Heel State," comes from the fact that the state was a major producer of tar, pitch, and turpentine from its vast pine forests.
North Carolina random facts
Mitchell County, North Carolina is located in the western part of the state and is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and rich history. The county was formed in 1861 from parts of Yancey, Watauga, and Caldwell counties. It was named after Dr. Elisha Mitchell, a renowned geologist and professor at the University of North Carolina.

Native Americans, primarily the Cherokee Indians, were the first inhabitants of the area. European settlers began arriving in the 18th century, and the region became a thriving agricultural community. The county's economy was largely based on farming and logging, with residents growing crops such as corn, wheat, and tobacco. The timber industry also played a significant role in the development of Mitchell County.

In the late 19th century, the arrival of the railroad brought new opportunities for growth and trade. The town of Bakersville became the county seat and a center of commerce. The construction of dams and hydroelectric power stations along the Toe River further fueled the county's economic development.

During the early 20th century, Mitchell County experienced a decline in farming due to the exodus of young people seeking better job opportunities elsewhere. However, the county's natural beauty and outdoor recreational activities attracted tourists, and today, tourism plays a vital role in the local economy.

Overall, Mitchell County's history is characterized by its transition from an agricultural and logging community to a tourism-driven economy. Its stunning landscapes, including the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains, continue to attract visitors and make the county a unique and memorable destination.

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

  • 1777 - Mitchell County was established as a part of Burke County.
  • 1796 - The county became a part of Buncombe County.
  • 1841 - Mitchell County was officially formed, with lands from Burke and Yancey Counties.
  • 1851 - The county seat was established in Bakersville.
  • 1861-1865 - Mitchell County saw significant involvement in the American Civil War.
  • 1928 - The Clinchfield Railroad was completed, providing improved transportation and economic opportunities for the county.
  • 1976 - Mount Mitchell State Park, located in Mitchell County, was designated as the first state park in North Carolina.
  • Today, Mitchell County is known for its natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and rich cultural heritage.