Davidson

Davidson is a town in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina, spreading along the shore of Lake Norman at roughly 840 feet (256 meters) elevation. The settlement includes residential neighborhoods linked by tree-shaded streets and walking routes.

The settlement began in 1837 alongside the founding of Davidson College, which also bears the name of the Revolutionary War general. The college shaped the development of the surrounding settlement and its infrastructure from the start.

The town takes its name from General William Lee Davidson, whose legacy appears in several local buildings and streets. Visitors often see students and residents walking together along the waterfront or gathering in cafés near the campus.

The local police station offers regular meetings with residents, including informal coffee gatherings and neighborhood events during summer. Walkers find shaded paths along the lakeshore and through residential areas, suitable for short strolls.

The town government conducted a series of nine health assessments for planning projects between 2011 and 2014, focusing on resident well-being. This approach was rather uncommon for a small town of this size at the time and later served as a model for other communities.

Location: Mecklenburg County

Inception: 1837

Elevation above the sea: 256 m

Website: http://ci.davidson.nc.us

GPS coordinates: 35.49110,-80.83280

Latest update: December 17, 2025 07:37