Local Government
Town of Rutherford College
Welcome to the Town of Rutherford College, North Carolina!
Located in the foothills of western North Carolina, Rutherford College is a small, family-oriented town where neighbors (all 1,305 of them) look out for each other. The town is bordered by Lake Rhodhiss on the north, and by Mineral Springs Mountain on the south in scenic Burke County. Rutherford College is conveniently located within sixty miles of both Asheville and Charlotte. The town is approximately 45 minutes from the mountains, and has access to excellent hiking, fishing, hunting, and rafting opportunities.
The Story of Our Town
Though originally named Excelsior, the town is now named for the college that was located here years ago. In 1933, Rutherford College (the school) merged with Weaver College and Brevard Institute to form Brevard College. The college campus here became the location for the hospital clinic, and the last remaining college building was torn down in 2007 to make way for the expansion of the Valdese General Hospital.
Town Meeting Schedule
RC Zoning Ordinance
Things to Do in Our Town
Every year Rutherford College is home to the Rutherford College Summer Festival, held on the first Saturday of August. In addition to entertainment, food, drinks, and plenty of door prizes, the festival features craft and food vendors. The Rutherford College Park, behind the Old Town Hall Building, provides a picnic shelter, entertainment stages, and a playground. At Christmas, it is the venue of the Christmas in the Park celebration, featuring Santa, entertainment, and bonfires. We welcome you to visit Rutherford College and celebrate with our small community on these occasions.