Tuxedo, NC: A Hidden Gem in the Green River Valley

When people think about moving to Hendersonville, they often talk about the nearby towns and villages that add to the area’s unique appeal. Tucked just south of Flat Rock lies a community steeped in history and mountain charm—welcome to Tuxedo, North Carolina.

A Historic Mill Town Turned Scenic Escape

Once a buzzing mill town surrounded by pristine nature, Tuxedo was founded in 1907 by J.O. Bell alongside the Green River. The village grew around the Green River Manufacturing Company, a textile mill powered by hydroelectricity from nearby Lake Edith. The name “Tuxedo” was drawn from a hat—literally—by Bell’s wife, who suggested it as a nod to Tuxedo Park in New York. That delightful bit of history set the tone for a community full of character and local legacy.

Strolling through Tuxedo, you’d see remnants of a self-sufficient mill village—lovingly preserved homes, the company store, and even apple orchards. Much of that charm remains visible throughout the area today, offering both a look into the past and an invitation to slow living. It’s no wonder so many families still carry on the legacy by keeping their properties in good shape, many dating back over a century.

Things to Do Around Tuxedo

Living in Hendersonville means you’re just minutes from the outdoorsy wonderland that surrounds Tuxedo. From hiking and kayaking to lake days and historic exploration, this village is an adventurer’s paradise. Here are a few highlights:

• Lake Summit: Once a power generation site, it’s now a recreational haven lined with charming boathouses. Perfect for paddleboarding, kayaking, or boating.
• The Green River: Loved by locals for kayaking and tubing, it offers peaceful floats or adrenaline-pumping whitewater action.
• Flat Rock Playhouse & Carl Sandburg Home: Just minutes away, these Flat Rock staples are a must-visit. Learn more about them on our Learning Center.
• Tuxedo Park: Once the site of the historic mill, it’s now a community green space celebrating the town’s long legacy.

With easy access to nearby trails, like those in DuPont State Forest and Jones Gap State Park, Tuxedo beckons the outdoor enthusiast. And for even more things to do, the Green River Game Lands are just around the corner, teeming with wildlife and stunning hiking trails.

Nature, Nostalgia, and Neighborly Charm

There’s a genuine feeling of community pride in Tuxedo, amplified by generations of families who have lived and worked here since the early 1900s. Tales of mill workers returning home on weekends, picnics by waterfalls, and even a wrestling bear who made a surprise swim in Lake Summit, paint a picture of a close-knit town steeped in curiosity and camaraderie.

Though the textile mill closed long ago, the spirit lives on in the stories told by descendants and neighbors. You can read more about these beloved tales and community members by visiting Flat Rock Together’s historical write-up.

Why Tuxedo Is Drawing Attention

As more people relocate to Hendersonville for its natural setting and strong sense of community, Tuxedo is becoming one of the best-kept secrets for homebuyers who want a balance of rural serenity and historic richness. Whether you’re walking across the Old Bridge near the site of Lake Edith or spending a summer day at one of the nearby camps still in operation since the 1920s, you’ll find timeless mountain appeal here.

The homes, many of them vintage Sears Roebuck kits or beautifully restored mill homes, charm with their beaded board paneling and rustic hardwoods. Several properties have been passed down through generations, making the sense of home in Tuxedo especially deep.

Making the Move

If you’re thinking about making a change, moving to Hendersonville—and specifically the Tuxedo area—may offer that longed-for lifestyle shift. Clear mountain air, heartfelt traditions, and just the right pace of life make it easy to see why this area is gaining popularity.

Whether you’re drawn to its history, its lakes, or its interwoven community ties, Tuxedo offers something truly special. For those lucky enough to call it home—or soon planning to—it’s more than just a stop on the map. It’s a place where heritage holds hands with hope for what’s to come.

Your Next Step

If you’re curious about what’s it like living in Hendersonville or want to explore homes near beautiful Tuxedo, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. From historic lake houses to peaceful farm properties, Henderson County offers a variety of lifestyle options with hometown heart.

Let’s start your story here.