Welcome to Forest City, NC—a beautiful, thriving community nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Known for its charm, friendly residents, and historic Main Street, Forest City offers the perfect blend of small-town living with modern convenience.
We at Rutherford Handyman Service are proud to be a local business serving this wonderful town. We care deeply about the community we live in and serve. Whether you’re a long-time resident or just settling in, this guide is your resource for everything great about Forest City!
The Rich History of Forest City
Forest City, originally incorporated as Burnt Chimney in the 1870s, has a fascinating history rooted in the railroad and textile industries.
The name was changed to Forest City in 1887 to honor General Griffith Rutherford, and today, you can still feel that sense of history walking along our revitalized downtown.
The iconic, restored Forest City Depot and the historic homes lining the avenues speak to the town’s enduring spirit.
Forest City became a major textile center in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with mills fueling its growth and prosperity.
Annual Events in Forest City
What truly makes Forest City special is its vibrant calendar of events. These are just a few gatherings that are the heartbeat of the community.
Hot Dog Day: An annual tradition celebrating the community with free hot dogs and family fun.
Christmas Lights on Main Street: A spectacular display of 500,000 christmas lights, Christmas parade & carriage rides that draws visitors from all over the region.
Summer Concert Series: Free, outdoor music that brings the town together.
Hot Nights Cool Rides Show: Free, outdoor car show that you will take you back to your teenage years!
SpringSkunk Music Festival: Great music. Great entertainment for the whole family.
Trick or Treat on Main Street: Kids can go door-to-door with all the merchants.
Rutherford County Veterans Parade: A tribute to those who served our great nation.
The Retirement Advantage: Why Forest City is Perfect for Retirees
Forest City is increasingly becoming a top choice for retirees seeking a high quality of life without the high cost of living. The mild climate, affordable real estate, and friendly atmosphere are huge draws.
For those enjoying their golden years, Home safety and accessibility are paramount. Rutherford Handyman Service specializes in making homes comfortable and secure for retirees. We can install Bathroom grab bars, build custom Wheelchair ramps, and complete essential tasks like Locks changed to give you peace of mind. Let us handle the maintenance so you can enjoy your retirement!
Forest City Business Spotlight: Trusted Local Professionals
Newcomers sometime struggle sometimes to connect with local service providers, because they are not sure who they can trust and rely on.
We believe in supporting other local businesses who share our commitment to excellence and community.
Here are some trusted professionals that you might want to get to know, like and trust..
Mortgage Broker – Crystal Searcy (828) -289-2893. Expertise in local lending and securing great rates.
Financial Planner – Andrew Tisdale (828) 800-948-2706 Ameriprise Financial Services .A professional to help secure your financial future.
Real Estate Agent – Marie Dufore (985)-774-5453 Buyers Agent
Banking Services – Melissa Cantrell (828) 245-2262 United Bank of Forest City, NC
Barber – Lisa Smith Enloe (828) 245–755- 288 Plaza Barber Shop A Forest City institution offering top-notch service.
Flooring – Jason Trim (828) 289-0553 BPS Southeast Flooring the areas largest selection of quality flooring.
Lawncare – Braxton Phillips (828) 744-2987 Braxton’s Lawn care, leaf removal, edging, trimming.
Tax Preparation – Erin Hale ((970) 241-4880 Hale Tax Solutions. Tax preparation, Accounting, Tax Resolution, Former IRS Agents.
Plumbing – Randy Fite (828) 755-8805 Plum Perfect Plumbing Drain pipes clogged, frozen pipes.
Insurance – Alex Martin (828) 288-2670 CRM Insurance Homeowners, Car, Commercial & Liability.
Handyman – Bobby Wallace (828) 351-9191 Rutherford Handyman Service – We are your local experts for: Handyman Service, Appliance Installation, Home
safety, and all your repair or improvement needs!
This little town really stands out among North Carolina’s 100 counties because it blends affordability, small-town charm, and a strong sense of community with surprising amenities and history.
Residents describe their town as “welcoming and neighborly”, with strong local businesses and community-driven initiatives. This makes it attractive to people who value connection and belonging.
Beyond housing, everyday expenses like groceries and utilities are generally lower than state and national averages, making Forest City financially accessible.
Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Forest City offers access to hiking, scenic drives, and outdoor recreation without the high costs of tourist-heavy mountain towns.
Unlike Asheville or Boone, Forest City hasn’t been overrun by tourism or inflated housing markets. It remains a hidden gem where you can still find acreage and space at reasonable prices.
If you’re weighing where to settle, Forest City offers a rare combination of affordability, history, and community spirit. It’s not just about low crime or cheap living—it’s about a lifestyle where neighbors know each other, the mountains are close by, and the town still feels authentic rather than commercialized.
So, if Forest City (or Nirvanah as my wife calls it ) is your final destination and you need a dependable Handyman Service that can handle it all. Our core services are designed to address every need of a homeowner in Rutherford County:
Repairs: From minor fixes to major Deck or Porch Repair and Fence repaired.
Installations: Expert Appliance Installation and precise hanging of Art, Mirror & TV hanging.
Safety & Accessibility: Specialized services including installing Bathroom grab bars and building Wheelchair ramps.
Maintenance & Aesthetics: Expert Painting and touch up to keep your home looking its best.
Plumbing: Professional Toilet Replacement and fixture repairs.
Your home is your most valuable asset, and in a historic town like Forest City, maintenance is key. Don’t let a leaky faucet, a wobbly fence, or a necessary home safety upgrade linger on your to-do list.
Rutherford Handyman Service is the reliable, fully insured, and locally trusted team ready to tackle any project—from a simple Toilet Replacement to complex Small remodeling projects. We pride ourselves on transparent pricing, punctual service, and quality craftsmanship that meets the high standards of Forest City homeowners.
CALL US TODAY for a Free, No-Obligation Estimate! (828) 351-9191
