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Mill Spring, North Carolina, is an unincorporated community in Polk County with roots that reflect the agricultural and milling traditions common to the foothills of western North Carolina. Prior to European settlement, the area was part of the broader homeland used by Indigenous peoples, including the Cherokee, who traveled through the region's valleys and waterways for hunting, trade, and seasonal settlement. The presence of reliable streams and fertile land later attracted settlers seeking productive farmland and opportunities for small-scale industry.

European-American settlers began establishing homesteads in the early nineteenth century, drawn by the area's natural resources and strategic location between the Blue Ridge foothills and the Piedmont. The community's name is derived from the early mills that were constructed along local waterways, where water-powered gristmills and sawmills processed grain and lumber for surrounding farms. These mills became essential gathering points, fostering commerce and social interaction while supporting the rural economy.

Agriculture formed the backbone of Mill Spring's early economy, with residents cultivating crops such as corn, wheat, and cotton while raising livestock on rolling pastureland. The mills not only served local needs but also supported limited trade with neighboring communities. As Polk County was established in the mid-nineteenth century, Mill Spring remained a rural settlement, closely tied to nearby Columbus for governmental and commercial services. This relationship allowed Mill Spring to retain its agricultural character while benefiting from county-level infrastructure and institutions.

Transportation improvements in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries gradually increased Mill Spring's connectivity. Wagon roads evolved into improved county and state highways, linking the community to Columbus, Tryon, and Rutherford County. Although Mill Spring did not experience significant railroad development, access to nearby rail lines enhanced regional trade and mobility. These infrastructure advancements encouraged modest residential growth while preserving the area's rural landscape.

Community life in Mill Spring has historically been shaped by strong family ties, churches, and local schools that served as social anchors. Residents maintained a close relationship with the land, emphasizing stewardship, self-reliance, and cooperation. Seasonal agricultural cycles influenced daily life, reinforcing traditions passed down through generations. Even as modernization progressed, the community retained a quiet, rural identity that distinguished it from more urbanized areas.

Today, Mill Spring is recognized for its scenic setting, spacious residential properties, and proximity to both outdoor recreation and small-town amenities. The area attracts residents seeking a peaceful lifestyle within reach of Columbus, Tryon, and Lake Lure. Homes range from historic farmhouses to newer custom residences on large parcels of land. With its blend of history, natural beauty, and accessibility, Mill Spring continues to offer a desirable living environment in the foothills of western North Carolina.