The Town of Woodfin is named in honor of Nicholas Washington Woodfin, a major force in
Western North Carolina’s early history. Born on January 29th, 1810 he was the fourth of
twelve children of John and Mary Grady Woodfin who lived in the Mills River area of what
is now Henderson County. Nicholas Woodfin, a lawyer by trade, became one of the major political
figures in the history of the western part of the state. A long serving state Senator,
humanitarian reformer, Confederate Army officer, businessman, and farmer Nicholas Woodfin
made a lasting impression on the state of North Carolina and his memory is still honored
today by the people of Woodfin.
The area that is now known as Woodfin was first settled by the Cherokee Nation prior
to the arrival of Europeans. After the founding of Asheville in 1797 the general area of
Woodfin was part of various land grants and was largely agricultural in nature. In the
mid 19th century, however, the French Broad River presented an important power source for
manufacturing and mills began to become established to take advantage of the natural power
source. Over time, the mills expanded and created villages for the workers and managers
which led to the gradual suburbanization of the area. As manufacturing waxed and waned during
the 20th century so too did the fortunes of the Town of Woodfin.
In 1971 the Town of Woodfin incorporated as a municipality and has remained true to the vision
of its founding fathers and mothers, who sought to maintain a distinct community where tradition
and family are still valued.
Although manufacturing remains an important part of Woodfin’s economy, during the 1990s the
Town began a transition into a bedroom community of people who appreciate the small town
experience, but still want all the amenities offered by a larger city. Today Woodfin is
a Town of approximately 4,000 citizens and is home to business ranging from multi-million
dollar giants to mom and pop operations.
Woodfin, NC is the only Town bearing the name of Woodfin in the United States.
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