Welcome to McDowell County; towns include -- Marion, Old Fort, Little Switzerland.

The part of Western North Carolina that was to become McDowell County was once the edge of this country's western frontier. Civilization ended here. Beyond this area, a dangerous, back-country awaited bold settlers.

McDowell County was once one of the largest gold producing regions in the United States. The U.S. gold rush originated in North Carolina before migrating westward. In the early 1800's, several thousand gold miners crowded into the area that would become McDowell County.

McDowell County covers 436 square miles with approximately 75% of the land covered in forest. Average rainfall is 52.32 inches; mean temperature is 75 degrees Summer and 41.2 degrees Winter. The elevation in McDowell County ranges from 900-5665 feet above sea level.

Below we have added information about our rich heritage each link will open a pdf document which you can print or read.