A Brief History of Fair Bluff
Founded in the mid‑1700s, Fair Bluff grew along a high bluff overlooking the Lumber River, which gave the town both its name and its early purpose. By the early 1800s, the river served as a key transportation route, allowing boats and steamboats to carry farm goods and supplies throughout the region.
The arrival of the railroad in 1852 helped Fair Bluff expand as a trading and agricultural center. Tobacco farming became the backbone of the local economy, supported by warehouses and businesses near the rail lines. During this period, churches, homes, and historic buildings—such as the Wooten‑Powell House—reflected a growing and active community.
In the late twentieth century, changes in agriculture led to economic decline and population loss. More recently, Fair Bluff has faced repeated flooding from major hurricanes, most notably in 1999, 2016, and 2018, which reshaped much of the town. Today, Fair Bluff continues to rebuild, honoring its river heritage and rich history while looking toward a renewed future.