About
Since well before the first European explorers came upon what is now Polk County, the area was a settled agrarian community of Cherokee people. A place so valued for its agricultural and hunting grounds it was fiercely fought over. The area became known as "Hunt Country".
Polk County was finally “established” as a recognized NC county in 1855. While Collinsville was once a major gold mining town, agriculture and outdoor recreation has always been the primary “business” of Polk County, creating a landscape of farms, forests, vineyards and waterways.
Rural Polk Forever was formed as a way to unite the community to support our rural heritage and the people and business who maintain it. We invite you to join our efforts to keep Polk County rural—forever.
Our Mission
Polk Rural Forever’s mission is to work together to support and preserve Polk County’s rural land, heritage, natural areas, agriculture, open space, and abundant wildlife in order to ensure its healthy and sustainable economy, outdoor recreation, environment and quality of life.
To accomplish this mission, Polk Rural Forever will:
• Communicate timely, accurate information and opportunities.
• Network and organize a coalition of residents and organizations to proactively address challenges.
• Educate about rural best practices and challenges.
• Advocate for the cause to our county and municipal governments and in the community.We invite you to join our coalition, and use your time, enthusiasm and expertise to keep Polk Rural Forever.
Polk Co History
The original formation of Polk County was in 1847 when the area was named in honor of the late Colonel William Polk of American Revolutionary War fame.