History of Asheboro, NC (2025 Guide): From Railroads to the NC Zoo

Asheboro, North Carolina, located in the heart of Randolph County, offers a unique blend of history, growth, and community pride. From its 1796 founding to becoming a manufacturing powerhouse and home of the North Carolina Zoo, Asheboro remains a vibrant Piedmont town with deep roots and modern appeal.

📜 Founding and Early Years

Asheboro was established in 1796 and named after Samuel Ashe, a Revolutionary War patriot and North Carolina’s ninth governor. Its central location led to its designation as the county seat, and over time it evolved into a vital hub for government and commerce in Randolph County.

🚂 Railroad Expansion and Industrial Growth

The arrival of the railroad in the 1880s transformed Asheboro into a thriving trade center. Rail connectivity opened new markets and ushered in an era of industrial development that positioned the town as a key manufacturing site in North Carolina’s Piedmont region.

🧵 Textiles, Hosiery, and Furniture Legacy

By the early 1900s, Asheboro was known for its booming textile industry, hosiery mills, and furniture production. Companies like Acme-McCrary Corporation provided stable employment and helped shape the region’s identity. Today, historic mill buildings serve as a reminder of this legacy and have been repurposed for modern use.

🐘 North Carolina Zoo: A Natural Wonder

Asheboro gained national attention in 1974 when it became home to the North Carolina Zoo — the world’s largest natural-habitat zoo:

📍 4401 Zoo Parkway, Asheboro, NC 27205

Spanning more than 500 acres, the zoo attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors annually and plays a vital role in conservation, education, and Asheboro’s tourism economy.

🏛️ Historic Sites and Downtown Asheboro

Asheboro’s downtown and public landmarks showcase its civic pride and preserved architecture. Notable sites include:

• Randolph County Courthouse (1909) – 📍 145 Worth St
• Sunset Theater (1929) – 📍 234 Sunset Ave
• Downtown Historic District – A walkable corridor of early 20th-century storefronts, restaurants, galleries, and civic buildings

🌇 Asheboro Today

Modern Asheboro blends its historical charm with community-focused growth. Local amenities and lifestyle benefits include:

• Proximity to Uwharrie National Forest for hiking, biking, and camping
• A revitalized downtown arts and food scene
• Affordable housing — from historic homes to new developments
• Access to Randolph Community College and highly rated public schools

🏠 Thinking About Moving to Asheboro?

Asheboro is ideal for homebuyers seeking community values, affordable living, and natural beauty. Whether you’re relocating, investing, or retiring, The Local Ledger provides local insight and lending guidance.

We proudly serve homebuyers in Asheboro (ZIP Codes 27203 and 27205) and across Randolph County.

🔗 Helpful Resources

• VA Home Loans: Complete Guide
• VA One-Time Close Construction Loans in NC
• VA Loans in Randolph County, NC

❓ Frequently Asked Questions