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Matthews, located just southeast of Charlotte, began as a small farming community in the early 19th century. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, particularly the Catawba, who utilized the fertile soil and abundant water sources along the creeks. European settlers—mostly Scots-Irish and German immigrants—began arriving in the 1800s, drawn by the rich farmland and moderate climate. The community was initially known as Stumptown, named after the tree stumps left behind by extensive land clearing for agriculture. Later, it was renamed Fullwood, after John Miles Fullwood, who operated the local post office. In 1879, when the Seaboard Air Line Railroad established a depot, the town adopted the name Matthews in honor of Edward Watson Matthews, a prominent railroad official who played a key role in bringing the line to the area.

The railroad transformed Matthews from an isolated farming settlement into a thriving agricultural trade center. Cotton became the backbone of the local economy, with farmers shipping their crops directly from the Matthews depot to textile mills throughout the Carolinas and beyond. Alongside cotton, farmers produced corn, wheat, and livestock, while merchants and craftsmen set up shop to serve the growing community. The prosperity brought by the railroad spurred the construction of homes, churches, schools, and general stores, and Matthews began to develop a more defined town center. By the early 20th century, the town had become a vital part of the greater Charlotte region's economic fabric.

Over the decades, Matthews experienced gradual modernization, shaped by the expansion of roads and suburban growth from Charlotte. The construction of U.S. Highway 74 and later Interstate 485 connected the town to major transportation routes, making it more accessible and attractive for both residents and businesses. During the post-World War II boom, Matthews transitioned from a largely agricultural economy to one based on retail, manufacturing, and residential development. Many of its historic buildings, including the Matthews Train Depot and the historic Town Hall, were preserved and continue to serve as proud symbols of the town's heritage.

Civic pride and a strong sense of community have long defined Matthews. The town has worked diligently to balance growth with preservation, creating a charming and walkable downtown that reflects both its history and modern identity. Annual events such as the Matthews Alive Festival, a Labor Day celebration featuring music, art, and food, highlight the community's spirit and cultural vibrancy. The town's schools, part of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg School District, are known for excellence, and local organizations and churches contribute to the town's tight-knit atmosphere.

Today, Matthews stands as one of the most desirable suburbs in the Charlotte metropolitan area. Its blend of historic charm, family-friendly neighborhoods, and modern conveniences make it an appealing destination for residents and visitors alike. The downtown district features locally owned restaurants, boutiques, and coffee shops, while numerous parks, greenways, and recreational facilities provide outdoor enjoyment. With its proximity to Charlotte, excellent schools, and welcoming community, Matthews offers a perfect balance of small-town warmth and metropolitan accessibility—continuing to thrive as a vibrant and growing hub in Mecklenburg and Union Counties.