Bostic, North Carolina is a charming rural town located in Rutherford County with a population of approximately 400 residents. Nestled amidst rolling hills and picturesque landscapes, the downtown area has a solitary four way stop and one set of railroad tracks. Whistle Stop Bakery sits by the tracks and the proprietor, Ruthie Hanson and her staff bake a wonderful assortment of baked goods. Town hall is open Thursdays from 2:00 pm until 6:00 pm and a from 8am – 12 pm on the last Saturday of the month. Check their website for updates.
One of the highlights of Bostic is its rich history. The area was settled prior to the Revolutionary War and played a significant role in the development of the region. Because of the railroad Georgia’s Toccoa College was started here in today’s Golden Valley and one of the oldest orphanages, The South Mountain Children’s home, in McDowell County had its origins here as well. Visitors can explore a few of Bostic's remaining landmarks. Downtown, the Bostic Lincoln Center pays tribute to the sixteenth President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln. The center features exhibits and artifacts that prove Lincoln, the illegitimate son of Abraham Enloe, was born in Bostic. Stop by the museum and let us convince you. A YouTube video presented by UNC-TV is available online. Washburn Store just outside of the town is the oldest family run mercantile in the state. You’ll delight in a quick stop. Walk through the front door, hear the bell ring, step through a threshold that has hosted thousands. Grab a soda and a moon pie, maybe you need a cast iron pan, or overalls?
Nature enthusiasts will find a lot to love in Bostic which encompasses several communities: Washburn, Sunshine, Duncans Creek and Golden Valley. The town is surrounded by scenic beauty you’ll find forests, the First Broad River, several freshwater streams, and scenic views provided by our mountains. Residents and visitors can take advantage of outdoor activities hiking, fishing, and camping in nearby destinations like South Mountains State Park and Gamelands, a nearly 40,000-acre wilderness area between Burke and Rutherford Counties.
Sunshine Elementary School serves as a hub for community activities and provides quality education to local children. East Rutherford Middle School and East Rutherford High School prepare our students to further their education or to take a job in the trades. Isothermal Community College offers the Reach Program wherein high school students can attend some college classes for college credit.
The Golden Valley Community Club had its start in the mid-60s and still meets today on the third Monday of the month. The clubhouse may be rented to residents who want to host a gathering and if often used for local events and fundraisers.
With its rich history, natural beauty, and strong sense of community, Bostic provides a perfect retreat for those seeking a slower pace of life. Whether you're interested in exploring the town's historical landmarks: Lincoln Center, Washburn Store, enjoying outdoor venues: Cherry Bounce Adventures, Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Campground, if you enjoy outdoor activities hiking, hunting, fishing and more this may be the ideal spot for you. We like to say we’re 20 miles from anywhere and that’s almost true.
