Rutherford College

Rutherford College was once known for its outstanding seminary school and has a rich history rooted in education. Today, if you hear the name Rutherford College, your mind may jump straight to barbecue. Each September, Kansas City–style BBQ competitors from across the country descend on this small town for cash prizes and bragging rights. Beyond the festival buzz, Rutherford College offers the quaint, close-knit hometown feel many people desire.

The town has also quietly become a center for health and wellness in Burke County. Located within town, UNC Health Blue Ridge–Valdese provides a full-service hospital with a 24-hour emergency department, advanced diagnostics, surgery, cancer care, and specialty services—bringing high-quality medical care close to home.

Beyond the hospital campus, Rutherford College is home to a strong concentration of physician practices, rehabilitation, and specialty care. For visitors, that means peace of mind. For professionals and families considering a move, it’s one more reason Rutherford College is a smart, connected place to live and work.

Official Town Website and Facebook

Looking for something to do in Rutherford College? See the “A Day in Rutherford College” itinerary.

The Pigmaster’s BBQ Challenge consists of 36 competitors from all over the southeast region of the United States. The event is a Kansas City Barbecue Society sanctioned competition – Master Series – that requires the teams to cook 4 types of meat (Chicken, Pork Ribs, Pork Butt, and Pork Brisket). Details

Castle Bridge Boat Access Lake Rhodhisss – Public Boat Ramp for motor boats or kayak/canoes.

History – Learn more about the beginnings of the incredible small town.

Burke River Trail – The current Rutherford College section of Burke River Trail is the 0.6 mile sidewalk Malcolm Blvd. You will find the Rutherford College Greenway, RC Municipal Park, a walking track at UNC Blue Ridge Health and shops along the way. Plans are in the works for a sidepath to Castle Bridge and safe pedestrian crossing on a new bridge. Targeted stop for the trail to the west is Valdese Lakeside Park and to the east is Connelly Springs.

Elected Officials – Mayor Yates Jensen leads the Rutherford College Council. Members: Mayor Pro Tem Kress Berry, Councilwoman Starr-Nell Bowman, Councilman James Huffman, Councilman Mark Stinson, Councilman Carroll Hoyle, Councilman Darel Malcolm. The Town Manager is Jessica Bargsley.