After many changes, Cleveland, North Carolina, took its permanent name in 1884. The town was incorporated in 1883 under the name of Third Creek. In 1884, the town was renamed Cleveland after Grover Cleveland, the first Democrat elected president post-Civil War. The town is punctuated with historic homes, centuries-owned farms, and some of the best food in the region. The townspeople are dedicated to keeping their friendly, small-town ways and quality of life.

The sense of community shone through when over 120 volunteers worked hundreds of hours and created the Largest Community Barn Quilt in the US. Comprised of more than 160 pieces, the quilt is about 1,000 square feet. There are also cubes covered with barn-inspired patterns creating a 2.6-mile trail through the town. In a West Rowan Farm Home and Garden book, you can find the stories connected to the individual quilts.

Don't let the laid-back atmosphere fool you; some great things are happening here. The Daimler Trucks Cleveland facility is the manufacturer's largest plant in the United States and produces the most Freightliner Trucks in the country. In September of 2022, the company celebrated the 800,000th vehicle built at the location. The importance of the plant to the local economy can't be understated. Even though the city has less than 850 residents, the facility employs over 2,200 people.

So where do hungry factory workers head for some great food after work? Like most in the area since 1953, they enjoy Keaton's Barbeque. BW Keaton created a sauce that appealed to the masses, and soon he became famous for his BBQ chicken and pork dishes. For those not in the area, the renowned sauce comes by the bottle and can be ordered and shipped across the country.

To get a "sauce" of another kind, take a trip to the Windmill Springs Vineyard. The vineyard is famous for its muscadine grapes, and they grow three varieties, Tara, Carlos, and Noble. A great assortment of jellies, juices, and ciders are available, and make sure to try one of the muscadine or watermelon slushies. The vineyard is open to the public for grape, blackberry, and blueberry picking.

An evening walk at the Town of Cleveland Park & Walking Trail is a great way to work off the BBQ and slushies. The view is sure to be spectacular whether you are getting some exercise on the walking or running trails or on soccer, baseball, or football fields. For a slower-paced time, sit back and watch the kids enjoy the playground or enjoy a family get-together in one of the picnic shelters.

You can enjoy the Cleveland Summer Concert Series when the weather gets warm. At South Depot Street on the 4th Saturday from April to September, regional bands perform in the heart of the town. Admission is free, and you'll want to claim your spot early.

The area's pests also love the warm weather. Ants, roaches, rodents, and especially mosquitoes can thrive during this time of year. When they appear, make sure At Ease Pest Solutions is at the top of your contact list. We are the area's top pest control service, so contact us today for more information or to schedule an estimate.