Waxhaw is a small town nestled along the North Carolina–South Carolina border about 25 miles south of Charlotte. This community-minded area has a charming historic downtown and jam-packed events calendar.
Real Estate
Due to its desirable location just outside of Charlotte, Waxhaw is a popular residential area for workers in the city. The town’s rapid growth means there are a number of new construction homes in Waxhaw. In fact, the average home in Waxhaw is just 10 years old, compared to the national average of 37 years. The area’s popularity means it has experienced a rapid increase in home prices, making this a valuable place to invest in real estate. Homes in Waxhaw primarily include traditional, Colonial and Craftsman homes.
Lifestyle and Attractions
Waxhaw is a small, community-minded town just three miles from the South Carolina border. This quaint town is close enough to Charlotte for employment, shopping, dining and entertainment. However, this small town has plenty in store for residents and visitors alike. Activity centers on the town’s charming historic downtown area with a plethora of shops, restaurants and other local businesses. Waxhaw is a hub for antique shopping and fine dining for residents throughout the region. Waxhaw is rapidly increasing in population, and has seen significant growth since the year 1990.
Waxhaw hosts several annual events to celebrate all seasons and holidays, including Christmas festivities in the winter, Kaleidoscope Fest each spring, an Independence Day Celebration during the summer, and Autumn Treasures during the fall. The town has several parks, including a children’s park and a skate park. The town’s Military Wall of Honor is a beautiful wall honoring local men and women who have served our country. The Museum of the Waxhaws explores local history, and the Museum of the Alphabet is devoted solely to the history of alphabets around the world. The Storefront Theatre is Waxhaw’s highly acclaimed local theater, offering a series of performances throughout the year.
Nearby Schools and Higher Education
Waxhaw has five public schools in Union County Public Schools, which is one of the largest school systems in the state. Additionally, there are five private schools in the Waxhaw vicinity, providing a variety of options for residents. There are no institutions of higher learning in Waxhaw, but a reasonable commute brings many opportunities within reach. Nearby colleges and universities include Clinton College, Johnson & Wales University, Queens University, the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, and Winthrop University.
History
Waxhaw takes its name from the Waxhaw Indian tribe, originally called the Wysacky, that once inhabited the land. The town dates back to the 1700s, but was officially chartered in 1889, making it the oldest town in Union County. Andrew Jackson, the seventh president of the United States, was born nearby, although both Carolinas claim him, due to the town’s proximity to the border.
The railroad arrived to the area in the year 1888, and tracks were laid directly through town. This development brought new growth to the town, as it became connected to Atlanta and other major cities for commerce purposes. Like with many towns in the Carolinas, the textile industry played a major role in the development of Waxhaw between the late 1800s and 1940s.
Waxhaw remained a quiet town until the 2000s, when the banking industry boomed in Charlotte, and the small town became a desirable suburb for Charlotte workers. Today, the past is well-preserved in its historic downtown district, which holds several buildings from the 1880s.
Approximate Distance to:
Uptown Charlotte: 23 Miles
Charlotte Douglas International Airport: 32.5 Miles
Hospitals:
Carolinas Medical Center-Union: 14 Miles
Novant Health Matthews: 16 Miles
Carolinas Medical Center: 21 Miles
Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center: 21.5 Miles
Major Highway:
US-521: 4 Miles
