Oak Ridge, NC Area Guide

Oak Ridge, NC Area Guide

General Information

Oak Ridge, with its population of just under 5,000, is the epitome of small town America. Although mostly rural farmland with the raising and breeding of horses a popular activity, and a horse show on Easter weekend, Oak Ridge is growing more every year since its incorporation in 1998. Many new developments along with several shopping centers have been built around Oak Ridge Military Academy. A private, coed, college preparatory military boarding school, ORMA was established in 1852. The third oldest military school in the nation, it is the official military school of North Carolina.

Visit Oak Ridge and take in the sights of one of the oldest military schools in the country, along with the new upper class housing developments and a centuries old grist mill and plantation homes. Even though Oak Ridge is growing, it still maintains its unique small town charm while enjoying the amenities of nearby Greensboro. Come for a visit and let Oak Ridge charm you as well!

History

Archaeologists tell us that the crest of the ridge, which runs from the southwest for some 50 miles to present day Reidsville was home to Native Americans in the earliest days. In the second half of the 18th century, Guilford County to the west was settled largely by Quakers that were migrating from Pennsylvania and Nantucket as well as pioneers out of Virginia. In the early 1820’s, settlers established a nine month school with a desire to provide quality education and this led to the founding of Oak Ridge Institute. Although mostly rural and isolated, the area grew with the early development of the North Carolina’s textile industry. Today, while still rural, Oak Ridge is becoming a bit more industrialized but still remains a charming small town.

To learn more, visit: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oak_Ridge,_North_Carolina

Attractions & Activities

Old Mill of Guilford Established in 1767, the Old Mill of Guilford is still operational, and a sight to see in operation!

To learn more, visit: www.oldmilofguilford.com

Colonial Heritage Center & Hoskins House Take a trip back in time and see what life was like in North Carolina’s back country!

To learn more, visit: http://attractions.uptake.com/north_carolina/oak_ridge

Parks & Recreation

Oak Ridge Town Park covers nearly 80 acres and when it’s finished will contain every thing from swing sets to picnic tables, something for everybody to enjoy!

To learn more, visit: http://www.oakridgenc.com

Events Calendar

For information on their annual horse show and other fun events in the area, visit: http://www.americantowns.com/nc/oakridge/events