Rhodhiss was built at the turn of the 20th century as a true mill town, shaped by innovation, industry, and the power of the Catawba River. Founded around cotton mills, an early hydroelectric dam, and one of the nation’s first fully electrified communities, Rhodhiss played a quiet but important role in North Carolina’s rise as a textile and manufacturing leader. While the mills defined its past, the town’s greatest strength has always been its people — residents with grit, pride, and a deep connection to place. The material of the US flag that the astronauts erected on the first visit to the Moon in 1969 was woven at Burlington Mills.
Upcoming Events
- None at this time
Looking for something to do in Rhodhiss? See the “A Day in Rhodhiss” itinerary.
Food/Drink
Copper Penny
Market Basket Grill
Shopping
Dollar General
Activities
Lake Hickory Haunts
Horseshoe Dam Park
Children’s Park
Weaver Lane Boat Ramp
Incredible book about Rhodhiss from the late 1800s to the present. Weaving the Heart Threads of a Mill Village gives a detailed perspective from the point of view of the mill workers, villagers, and children of workers. In 1988, over 70 people were interviewed to give voice to the town’s history. Out of that came a book that shares their accounts of child labor, living and working conditions, entertainment, education, religion, and textile products. The book discusses the trials, tribulations, joys, and love within the village. Order Book
Old Glory Mill renovation is a catalytic opportunity to Revitalize Rhodhiss with a town center that includes housing, jobs, safe transportation, outdoor recreation and tourism while preserving the rich heritage of the town.
Burke River Trail – The current Rhodhiss section of Burke River Trail is 0.2 mile natural trail at Horseshoe Dam Park. The trail will travel west to Weaver Lane Boat Ramp and east to Long View.
Elected Officials – Mayor Allen Spencer, Mayor Pro Tem, Mike Phillips, Council Members: Kendra Edwards, Joyce Karn, Donna Price. Town Manager Rick Justice.