Area Info > The History of Harrisburg

Settled mostly by Scotch-Irish in the 1730s, Harrisburg, still home to families that arrived in the 1700s, came by its name from the Robert Harris family and his descendants. Mr. Harris was established on land of his own here in 1766. With the coming of the railroad in the 1850s, the depot took the name of the landowner from whom the right-of-way was purchased, becoming known as Harris Depot. In 1874 the Post Office underwent a change of name from Harris Depot to Harrisburg. A business district and town center developed down by the railroad, but in 1923, with the construction of what is now known as N.C. 49, Harrisburg's business district shifted to the new road. Harrisburg Depot closed in 1933.

Located in southwest Cabarrus County bordering Mecklenburg County, the Town of Harrisburg was incorporated in 1973. Government is by a seven member council and mayor. The town hall, built in 1981, is located on N.C. 49.

Harrisburg's economic strength can best be judged by its business and industrial growth. With the building of an industrial park, availability of land and the quality of the work force, Harrisburg, a town on the move, reflects and maintains its rural heritage.