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The community of Orrum is rooted in the early settlement history of southwestern Robeson County, an area shaped by rivers, wetlands, and fertile agricultural land. Long before European settlers arrived, Indigenous peoples inhabited the region, including ancestors of the Lumbee Tribe, who relied on the surrounding swamps, forests, and waterways for sustenance and transportation. These early inhabitants established seasonal settlements and trade routes that later influenced colonial settlement patterns. Robeson County was formed in 1787 from Bladen County, and the land that would become Orrum remained sparsely populated for much of the 18th and early 19th centuries, characterized by subsistence farming and extended family homesteads.

Orrum's development accelerated in the late 19th century with the expansion of railroad infrastructure across southeastern North Carolina. The town was established along the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad and was named after J. M. Orr, a railroad official instrumental in the line's construction. The arrival of the railroad transformed the area into a shipping and trading point for local agricultural products. Cotton, tobacco, corn, and lumber became the economic foundation of the community, while turpentine and naval stores were harvested from surrounding pine forests. Warehouses, depots, and small businesses emerged near the rail line, giving Orrum a defined commercial center.

Agriculture remained central to Orrum's economy well into the 20th century. Local farms produced staple crops that supported both local consumption and regional trade, while timber operations supplied raw materials for construction and manufacturing. The railroad allowed farmers to access larger markets, stabilizing incomes and encouraging modest population growth. While Orrum never developed into a large industrial town, its role as an agricultural service point sustained local businesses and reinforced its importance within western Robeson County.

Transportation and infrastructure improvements shaped Orrum's evolution over time. While the railroad initially drove growth, improved roadways expanded regional connectivity as automobile travel became more common. Roads linking Orrum to Lumberton, Fairmont, and Rowland facilitated commuting, commerce, and access to healthcare and education. Public utilities such as electricity, water systems, and telecommunications were gradually introduced, modernizing homes and supporting residential stability. Despite these changes, Orrum retained its rural layout and avoided large-scale urban development.

Community life in Orrum has long been defined by strong social ties, cultural continuity, and local institutions. Churches have historically served as focal points for worship, social gatherings, and mutual support. Schools, athletic programs, and civic organizations fostered community pride and intergenerational connection. The town reflects the broader cultural diversity of Robeson County, with Lumbee, African American, and European American residents contributing to its shared identity. Seasonal events and family traditions continue to reinforce Orrum's close-knit character.

Today, Orrum offers a modern snapshot of rural North Carolina living with convenient access to nearby towns. Residents value the area's affordability, open land, and quiet environment, while proximity to Lumberton provides access to employment, healthcare, and retail services. Residential development remains modest, preserving the town's agricultural roots and small-town atmosphere. Orrum's appeal lies in its balance of history, community stability, and regional accessibility, making it an attractive location for homeowners seeking a slower pace of life within Robeson County.