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Saluda, North Carolina, is a historic mountain town located at the southern edge of Polk County, near the border with South Carolina. Long before European settlement, the region was used by Indigenous peoples, including the Cherokee, who traveled through the mountain passes for hunting, trade, and seasonal migration. The natural gap through the Blue Ridge Mountains near Saluda made the area an important travel corridor for centuries. Early settlers of Scotch-Irish and German descent arrived in the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, establishing farms and homesteads along the ridges and valleys while relying on the land's forests and waterways for survival.

Saluda's early economy was rooted in agriculture and small-scale trade, but its destiny was shaped by transportation. Farmers relied on wagon roads to move goods through the mountains, and the area gradually developed as a waypoint for travelers crossing between North Carolina and South Carolina. The town's name is believed to be derived from a Cherokee word meaning "corn river," reflecting the area's agricultural heritage and Indigenous influence. As settlement increased, Saluda evolved from a rural farming community into a small but strategically located service town.

The most transformative period in Saluda's history came in the late nineteenth century with the arrival of the railroad. The construction of the Saluda Grade by the Southern Railway marked one of the most significant engineering feats in American railroading. Completed in the 1870s, the Saluda Grade became the steepest standard-gauge mainline railroad grade in the United States. This development brought rail workers, engineers, and businesses to the town, rapidly expanding its population and economic activity. Hotels, boarding houses, shops, and depots emerged to support railroad operations and travelers passing through the area.

Infrastructure growth continued as Saluda developed into a rail-centered community. The railroad connected the town to regional markets, enabling the transport of timber, agricultural products, and manufactured goods. Roads were improved to complement rail access, and Saluda became a vital link between the Piedmont and mountain regions. Despite its small size, the town gained national recognition due to the engineering significance of the Saluda Grade, cementing its place in transportation history.

Community life in Saluda flourished alongside its transportation-driven growth. The town developed a distinctive character shaped by railroad culture, mountain traditions, and a strong sense of independence. Churches, schools, and civic organizations formed the backbone of social life, while local businesses supported both residents and visitors. Over time, Saluda became known for its hospitality, welcoming travelers and newcomers drawn by its mountain setting and vibrant community spirit.

In the modern era, Saluda has transitioned from a rail-industrial hub to a charming mountain town celebrated for its history, arts scene, and natural beauty. Residential areas feature a mix of historic homes, restored properties, and newer construction that appeal to families, retirees, and second-home buyers. The town's walkable downtown offers local shops, dining, and cultural events, while nearby forests and trails provide abundant outdoor recreation. With its rich history, scenic surroundings, and strong sense of place, Saluda remains one of western North Carolina's most distinctive and desirable small towns.