Cleveland County

Cleveland County is an administrative division in North Carolina covering varied terrain that includes parts of the South Mountains. The area encompasses multiple incorporated towns and municipalities like Shelby and Kings Mountain.

This county was established in 1841, carved from portions of Lincoln and Rutherford counties. It took its name from Colonel Benjamin Cleveland, a notable figure from the American Revolution.

Educational institutions like Cleveland Community College and Gardner-Webb University form the cultural backbone of this area. These centers shape how people gather, learn, and connect across the region.

Government services are centered in Shelby where the main administration office is located. The area benefits from connections to Interstate 85 and US Highway 74, making travel straightforward.

The Broad River Greenway winds through the area with native plants and geological rock formations along its banks. This natural corridor offers visitors a quiet place to explore local landscapes.

Location: North Carolina

Inception: 1841

Capital city: Shelby

Shares border with: Burke County, Lincoln County, Gaston County, York County, Cherokee County, Rutherford County

Website: http://clevelandcounty.com

GPS coordinates: 35.34000,-81.56000

Latest update: December 13, 2025 20:50