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Union County, North Carolina provides a unique mix of pastoral rural living and modern metropolitan convenience. Situated in the central Piedmont Region next to the South Carolina border, Union County lies directly east of Mecklenburg County, home to the sprawling city of Charlotte.
The lush, rolling pasturelands and quaint, small towns of Union County offer an escape from the bustle and noise of Charlotte. More people discover the beauty of this region each year. Census 2000 recorded Union County’s population at 123,677. The 2004 estimate was almost 154,000, showing more than 24% increase in population. This makes Union County one of North Carolina's fastest growing regions, surpassing even the rapid growth of Charlotte’s Mecklenburg County.
Fifteen towns and villages comprise Union County, NC, along with the city of Monroe, the county seat. Monroe, settled in 1844, is a stunning small city of 28,000 people, full of historic buildings and quiet, tree-lined streets. The 1886 Victorian Italianate courthouse is the focal point for the downtown area, home to a thriving retail district. Monroe boasts its own airport and the region’s South Piedmont Community College. The next largest town is Indian Trail, population 15,000. Indian Trail has grown by 513% since 1980, becoming Union County’s fastest growing municipality.
Stallings, population 8,000 serves as the “Gateway to Union County”. Situated directly on US HWY 74, Stallings has quick access to Interstate 485 into Charlotte. Weddington, population 7,000, is one of NC’s wealthiest towns, with the highest per-household disposable income of more than $67,000. Beautiful 1800 Victorian mansions line the streets of Weddington. Other towns with less than 6,000 residents include Wesley Chapel, Wingate, Waxhaw, Lake Park and Mineral Springs.
Union County stands out as premier horse country, even claiming the largest equestrian population in North Carolina. Home to the Charlotte's Queens Cup Steeplechase, thousands of spectators arrive in Union County to watch this splendid race. Traditionally an agricultural region, Union County towns host many farm festivals through out the year. Roadside stands of fresh produce abound here.
Cane Creek Park in Waxhaw contains a pristine 350-acre lake perfect for swimming and boating. Cane Creek provides some of the best large-mouth bass fishing in North Carolina, and also holds crappie, catfish and bluegill. Sports and recreation play a large part of Union County lifestyle, and numerous playing fields and parks abound. Union County’s mild climate encourages golf year-round. Three public course, six semi-private and two private clubs await serious golfers, some designed by Donald Ross and Jack Nicklaus.
Union County, North Carolina, surrounded by serene and tranquil farmlands, welcomes to its communities those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Union County is truly a “breath of fresh air”.
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