Erwin, North Carolina presents small-town living at its best, while situated in one of the region's fastest growing urban areas.  Located in Harnett County, Erwin lies twenty-four miles north of Fayetteville and thirty-five miles south of the rapidly expanding Raleigh-Durham Metro Area.  As members of the world-renowned Research Triangle Regional Partnership, where high technology, research and development thrive, Harnett County and Erwin claim a solid and successful future.

Harnett County reported a population just over 91,000 in the Census 2000.  In 2004, estimates showed more than 101,500 citizens, which proved a 50% increase since the 1990 Census.  Located less than an hour's commute to the Research Triangle Park, future population expansion into the mostly rural county is assured.  Erwin's population numbered at just less than 5,000, offering the security and friendliness of Southern small-town life.

Erwin, NC formed in 1903, grew up around the Erwin Cotton Mill Company.  The owners chose the site because it lies on the eastern side of the powerful Cape Fear River, and near to the many cotton fields that were part of Harnett County's main economy.  The mills became so successful that for most of the century, Erwin bore the title "Denim Capital of the World".  Though the mill closed in the year 2000, Erwin residents proudly host the annual "Denim Days Festival", a fun and food filled event where local arts and craftsmen display their wares.

Though the Denim Capital era is over now, Erwin citizens cite a new motto: "Pride in our Past… Hope in our Future".  With the rapid influx of new high technology and research firms flooding into the Harnett County area, and the desire for urban dwellers to escape the bustle of city life, Erwin residents expect solid future growth.  Its location is ideal, with easy access to Interstates 95 and 40, as well as excellent NC highways; Erwin is the perfect home commute to the large cities.

Harnett County presently remains a mostly rural area, with several small towns and the city of Dunn.  This provides Erwin with tranquil, countryside surroundings.  North Carolina's natural beauty is well known.  Three wonderful preserves lie within thirty miles of Erwin.  The Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve, Jordan Lake State Recreation Area, and the stunning Raven Rock State Park provide residents with plenty of outdoor activities.

Erwin, North Carolina preserves its past and the ambience of small town living.  With a gentle, moderate Southern climate, and an economic climate that steadily strengthens, Erwin’s future is bright.

<< Back to Our Community