Early Beginnings
Rowan County was formed in 1753, and, like many of the counties around Charlotte, the original non-Native American inhabitants were European settlers that migrated to the region from Pennsylvania. The fertile land and abundant natural resources encouraged them to stay in the region rather than traveling any farther from their original homes.
At the outset of its history, Rowan County was a huge county with no clearly defined western boundary. In 1770 that began to change as some of the land was used to create Guilford County. In 1771 Surry County took more of the land, followed by Burke County in 1777 and Iredell County in 1788. The shrinking continued as Davidson County took some land in 1822 and Davie County took some in 1823. Salisbury is the county seat of the region.
Historical Importance
During the Civil War, Rowan County gained importance as it had one of the most infamous prisoner of war camps in the south, the Salisbury Confederate Prison. It was here that over 11,000 Union soldiers died during the war. One of the South’s most popular soft drinks is also produced in this county. Cheerwine has been produced in Salisbury since 1917. This unique beverage is hard to find outside of the South, but has a major following among soft drink consumers who have tasted its sweet cherry flavor. The name stems from the fact that it resembles a bubbly red wine in color.
Why Move to Rowan County?
If you are looking for a historic community outside of Charlotte, then Rowan County might be the place you should consider. The area is packed with rich historical landmarks for people of all ages to enjoy. The African American Heritage Trail takes visitors through a tour of the history of the Civil Rights movement in the south, as well as the history of African American culture. History buffs can also explore Rowan County’s Historic National Cemetery, where soldiers on both sides of the Civil War are buried, including the Union soldiers who perished at the Salisbury Confederate Prison.
Residents of Rowan County enjoy medical care at the Rowan Regional Medical Center, a small, private hospital in the region. The Rowan-Salisbury School District offers quality education for children through high school. Graduates can attend school in Charlotte or at the Rowan-Cabarrus Community College.
Rowan Real Estate News
Rowan County is home to just under 120,000 people. The average price for a home in the area is around $130,000. The vast majority of the homes in the county are owner occupied, with only 24% of the properties being rental units, and 7% of the properties being vacant. This is not surprising, however, when you consider the affordable cost of purchasing one of these homes and the fact that Rowan County is just 35 miles from Charlotte.
Some of the most popular master planned communities in Rowan County are those that sit on the banks of High Rock Lake. Here homeowners can purchase affordable waterfront property near the state’s second largest lake. New communities are currently being built throughout the county to cater to the demand for luxurious living outside of Charlotte. Whether you are looking for a new home or a historic one, there is sure to be a community in Rowan County that will match your tastes.
|
