Abstract:
Located on the southern slopes of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Polk County, is a distinctive region. Originally a part of Mecklenburg County, Polk was also known as Tryon from 1768 through 1779. Aside from difficulties presented by Tories, Cherokees, and the Civil War, residents have sustained by utilizing profits derived from land holdings, the Gold Rush, tourism, agricultural endeavors, the railroad, and modern industry.