From "Stumptown" to Thriving Suburb

1. Farming Origins

   Originally cleared for agriculture, the area was nicknamed Stumptown because of the countless tree stumps dotting the landscape after timber clearing.

2. The Railroad Boom

   The arrival of the Seaboard Air Line Railway in the late 1800s connected Monroe to Charlotte, ushering in rapid trade and population growth along what is now Trade Street.

3. Present-Day Snapshot

   Today Matthews spans roughly 17 square miles with a population of about 30,000 residents, all while preserving its historic storefronts and brick sidewalks.

Favorite Stops Along Trade Street

• Stumptown Park – Community green space with summer concerts, movies, and open-air markets.
• Brakeman's Coffee & Supply – A converted 1900s boarding house beloved for locally roasted coffee and casual meetings.
• Renfrow Hardware & General Store – Family-run since 1900, stocking garden supplies, beekeeping gear, and even live chicks.
• Downtown Farmers Market – Saturday mornings (April–November) featuring produce, baked goods, and crafts from regional vendors.

Unbeatable Location & Commuting Options

Matthews sits at the crossroads of two major thoroughfares:

• I-485 – Charlotte’s outer beltline, looping commuters to Ballantyne, the airport, and Lake Norman.
• US-74 (Independence Boulevard) – Direct, signal-free drive into Uptown Charlotte.

Thanks to this connectivity, residents can reach most Charlotte attractions within 20–25 minutes while enjoying a quieter suburban lifestyle.

Year-Round Festivals & Community Events

Matthews Real Estate at a Glance

The market remains competitive as demand outpaces supply:

Key Takeaways

• Historic core + modern amenities deliver a walkable, vibrant downtown.
• Easy access to I-485 & US-74 keeps work commutes short.
• Community spirit shines through festivals like Matthews Alive.
• Expect rising home prices and competitive bidding for well-located properties.