Denver, North Carolina, a small town in western North Carolina, sits at the eastern end of Lincoln County. Notably, it boasts a rich historical heritage that spans the inception of the United States to the present day.
The deep dive into Denver History
During pre-revolutionary times, the Catawba Indians resided on the eastern banks of the river that now bears their name, while the Cherokee Indians occupied the west. In 1747, Adam Sherrill and his eight sons, Pennsylvania pioneers, settled in this region. A year later, in 1749, John Beatty also arrived. Both the Sherrills and Beatty made their homes on the western side of the Catawba River, close to the shoals. Consequently, these locations became known as “Sherrill’s Ford” and “Beattie’s Ford,” names that persist in the area even today.
Why Dry Pond?
The town was originally called “Dry Pond” because of its swampy land. The residents wanted a better name to attract people and get a railroad connection. D. Matt Thompson, the local school principal, proposed renaming the town to “Denver.” He got the idea from Colorado becoming a state in 1873, with Denver as its capital. They wanted to improve the town’s image and increase the likelihood of getting rail service.
In 1877, Denver became a town in North Carolina. Unfortunately, it failed to establish a railroad line, leading to revenue challenges for the town’s street maintenance.
Although Denver has a rail line on its outskirts, no rail service is provided to the town itself, and the only nearby stop is designated for delivering coal to the Duke Power steam plant.
In 1971, the incorporated status of the small town was rescinded by the State, as several small towns had their charters revoked. Nevertheless, the majority of local residents prefer to keep Denver unincorporated, and you can learn more about the differences between an incorporated town and an unincorporated one by viewing this article.
Located on the western shores of Lake Norman, Denver benefits from its proximity to the lake, which was formed in 1962 when the Cowans Ford Dam was built on the Catawba River. Furthermore, Denver is situated north of Charlotte, the largest city in North Carolina. As a result, both Denver and Lake Norman have experienced significant growth due to Charlotte’s rapid expansion. The lake itself attracts numerous visitors who enjoy fishing, swimming, and boating, making it a popular destination. To reach the lake’s eastern side, you can conveniently use Interstate Route 77. It is worth noting that the area, once dominated by summer cottages, now boasts multimillion-dollar homes with breathtaking water views.
Considering a Move?
If you are considering relocating to the area, I can offer valuable insights as a Realtor® who prioritizes community. My exclusive knowledge can assist you in finding the ideal home for your lifestyle, ensuring a seamless experience without any “buyer’s remorse” or stress. Feel free to explore available homes for sale or schedule a Lunch or Coffee Consultation with me.
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