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Tar Heel is a small town in Bladen County located along the Cape Fear River, a geographic feature that has played a central role in its development for centuries. Long before European settlement, Indigenous peoples inhabited the riverbanks and surrounding forests, relying on the waterway for transportation, fishing, and trade. The fertile floodplains along the river supported early agriculture and made the area attractive to settlers. European colonists began establishing farms and river landings in the eighteenth century, and Tar Heel gradually developed as a river-oriented community.

The town's name reflects its deep connection to the naval stores industry, which was a cornerstone of the regional economy during the colonial and early American periods. Pine forests surrounding Tar Heel produced tar, pitch, and turpentine, materials essential for shipbuilding and maintenance. These products were transported along the Cape Fear River to coastal ports and overseas markets. Agriculture also played a significant role, with local farmers cultivating crops such as corn, rice, and later cotton and tobacco. The combination of farming and river-based trade sustained Tar Heel's early economy.

Transportation infrastructure shaped Tar Heel's growth patterns over time. The Cape Fear River served as the primary transportation corridor for many years, connecting the town to Wilmington and other coastal ports. As road networks expanded in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, Tar Heel became more accessible by land. Highways and bridges improved connectivity with nearby towns such as Elizabethtown and Bladenboro, supporting continued residential and commercial activity while reducing reliance on river traffic.

Community life in Tar Heel has historically centered on family, faith, and shared traditions. Churches have long served as gathering places for worship and social interaction, while local schools provided education for generations of residents. The town's small size fostered close personal relationships and a strong sense of mutual support. Seasonal events and community gatherings reinforced local identity and preserved cultural traditions tied to the river and rural life.

Today, Tar Heel is known both for its historic roots and its role in modern industry, including large-scale food processing operations that provide employment opportunities for the region. Residential areas offer a mix of long-established homes and newer development, set against a backdrop of farmland and river landscapes. Tar Heel appeals to residents seeking a rural lifestyle with access to employment and services in Bladen County. Its rich history, riverfront setting, and resilient community continue to define Tar Heel's character and appeal.