Waxhaw

Waxhaw is a town in the United States located mainly in Union County, North Carolina, with a portion in Mecklenburg County. It lies southeast of Charlotte and is part of the Charlotte metropolitan area. The town includes a historic downtown, residential neighborhoods, and serves as a commuter community for the region.

The name Waxhaw derives from the Waxhaw, a Native American people who inhabited the southern Piedmont region along Waxhaw Creek. European settlers began to establish communities in the area in the 18th century, and the broader region became known as the Waxhaws. The area is associated with the American Revolutionary War, including the Battle of Waxhaws in 1780 near the Waxhaws region.

Geographically, Waxhaw sits along several transportation corridors that connect it with the surrounding counties and Charlotte. The Waxhaw Creek runs through the area, contributing to its landscape. Since the late 20th century, the town has experienced suburban growth linked to the expansion of the Charlotte metropolitan area, blending preserved historic features with newer housing and commercial development.

Governance in Waxhaw follows a mayor-council structure. The town is served primarily by Union County Public Schools, with students in any Mecklenburg County portions attending appropriate district schools. The local economy centers on small businesses, retail, and services that support both residents and the broader region.