History & Demographics

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Rutherford County's history dates back to before the Revolutionary War. The county was named for Revolutionary War Brigadier General Griffith Rutherford. Several significant battles and movements were staged in or near current day Rutherford County and its first county seat, Gilbert Town.

The county was established in 1779 after splitting off from Old Tryon. Gilbert Town served as county seat until 1787 when Rutherfordton was established at the permanent county seat.