Waxhaw takes its name from the Waxhaws, both the name for the area and the name for the Indian tribe that once inhabited it. The community dates back to the 1700s, but it wasn't until 1888 that the railroad, laying tracks to Atlanta, brought prosperity. Tracks still run through the center of town along the green, grassy strip dividing two rows of stores.

The community was once dependent on cotton, but when the fiber lost its luster in the early 1960s, Waxhaw reshaped itself as an antique and fine dining center. The town has over 20 antique shops, several gift shops and dining ranging from mom & pop restaurants to fine dining bistros. (Not all shops are clustered together, so explore.).

The Waxhaw Historic District is on the National Register of Historic Places, and Waxhaw has some wonderful old houses near the center of town. Residents and town government are also working on beautification plans. A beautiful new Town Park is conveniently located in downtown Waxhaw. For new housing nearby, look along NC 75 East & West of Waxhaw, as well as Hwy 16 North of Waxhaw.

Near Waxhaw is Cane Creek Park, a 1,050-acre park that draws visitors with its beauty and its activities. A lot of folks had a hand in this park, which opened in 1978. The facility, on Harkey Road south of Waxhaw, was a cooperative venture between Union County, the Union Conservation District and the Soil Conservation Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

More information can be found by visiting the Museum of the Waxhaws on Hwy. 75, just east of Downtown.

Thanks to the Town of Waxhaw for providing this overview (www.waxhaw.com).