Cleveland County, North Carolina
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| Cleveland County, North Carolina | |
|---|---|
| County | Cleveland County |
| State | North Carolina |
| Founded | 1841 |
| Seat | Shelby |
| Largest city | Shelby |
| Area total sq mi | 468 |
| Area land sq mi | 464 |
| Area water sq mi | 4.0 |
| Population as of | 2020 |
| Population total | 99,519 |
| Population density sq mi | 214 |
| Time zone | Eastern |
| Named for | Benjamin Cleveland |
| District | 10th |
Cleveland County, North Carolina is a county located in the Piedmont region of the U.S. state of North Carolina. Established in 1841 from parts of Rutherford and Lincoln counties, its county seat and largest city is Shelby. The county is part of the Charlotte metropolitan area and is known for its historical significance in textile manufacturing and as the birthplace of several notable figures in American politics and culture.
History
The area was originally inhabited by the Catawba and Cherokee before European settlement. Cleveland County was formed in 1841 and named for Colonel Benjamin Cleveland, a hero of the American Revolutionary War at the Battle of Kings Mountain. The county's development was heavily influenced by the arrival of the Charlotte and South Carolina Railroad in the 1840s, which spurred growth in Shelby. During the American Civil War, the area provided troops to the Confederate States Army, and the Battle of Shelby occurred nearby in 1865. The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw a boom in textile mill construction, with companies like Cleveland Mills and Textiles, Incorporated establishing major operations. The county was also a significant site during the labor movement, including the 1934 textile strike.
Geography
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 468 square miles, of which 464 square miles is land and 4.0 square miles is water. It is situated in the Piedmont region, with topography ranging from rolling hills to the uplands near the Blue Ridge Mountains. Major waterways include the Broad River and the First Broad River. The county borders Rutherford County to the north, Burke County to the northwest, and York County, South Carolina to the south. Notable geographic features include Crowders Mountain State Park and the King's Mountain National Military Park, which are located near its borders.
Demographics
As of the 2020 United States census, the population was 99,519. The racial makeup was approximately 70.8% White, 20.6% African American, 4.0% Hispanic or Latino, 1.2% Asian, and 2.2% identifying as two or more races. The population density was about 214 people per square mile. Significant population centers include Shelby, Kings Mountain, and Boiling Springs. The county has seen steady growth, influenced by its proximity to the Charlotte metropolitan area.
Economy
Historically dominated by textile manufacturing, the county's economy has diversified following the decline of that industry. Major employers now include Cleveland County Schools, Cleveland County Government, and Atrium Health Cleveland. Manufacturing remains important, with companies like PPG Industries and Eaton Corporation operating facilities. The agricultural sector produces poultry, dairy, and nursery plants. Retail and healthcare services are centered in Shelby, and tourism is bolstered by attractions like the Don Gibson Theatre and the Earl Scruggs Center.
Government and politics
Cleveland County operates under a council-manager form of government, with a Board of County Commissioners and a County Manager. It is part of the 10th Congressional District, represented by Patrick McHenry. The county has historically leaned Republican in presidential elections, voting for candidates like Donald Trump in 2020 and George W. Bush in 2004. It is within the jurisdiction of the North Carolina Court of Appeals and the North Carolina Superior Court.
Education
Public education is managed by Cleveland County Schools, which operates numerous elementary, middle, and high schools, including Crest High School and Burns High School. Higher education is served by Cleveland Community College in Shelby. The county is also home to Gardner–Webb University, a private Baptist university in Boiling Springs. Several notable alumni have emerged from these institutions, including former Governor O. Max Gardner and NASCAR driver Timothy Peters.
Culture and recreation
The county is known as the "City of Pleasant Living" and has a rich cultural heritage, particularly in folk and bluegrass music, being the birthplace of banjo legend Earl Scruggs. Annual events include the Shelby City Park Christmas lights display and the Cleveland County Fair. Recreational facilities include the Cleveland County Memorial Library and the Shelby City Park. The county is also noted for its contributions to sports, producing athletes like Bobby Bell of the Kansas City Chiefs and hosting the American Legion World Series in Shelby.