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Hudson is a town located in eastern Caldwell County in the foothills of western North Carolina, with a history shaped by agriculture, industrial development, and long-standing community traditions. Its story reflects the broader economic and social changes that influenced many small towns in the Piedmont and foothill regions of the state.

Before European settlement, the land surrounding present-day Hudson was inhabited by Native American tribes who made use of the region's forests, streams, and fertile valleys for hunting and seasonal settlement. European-American settlers began arriving in the late 1700s, drawn by arable land and access to waterways. These early settlers established small farms, growing crops such as corn and wheat while raising livestock for local use and trade.

Caldwell County was formed in 1841, and the area that would become Hudson remained primarily rural throughout much of the 19th century. Farming dominated daily life, and the community developed slowly around homesteads, churches, and small schools. The absence of large plantations meant that agriculture was conducted on a modest scale, reinforcing close-knit social and economic ties among residents.

A significant shift occurred in the late 19th and early 20th centuries with the rise of textile manufacturing in western North Carolina. The establishment of cotton mills in the area marked Hudson's transition from a purely agricultural settlement to an industrial community. The mills provided employment opportunities that attracted workers from surrounding rural areas, prompting population growth and the development of housing and local businesses.

Hudson officially incorporated as a town in 1913, reflecting its growing importance as a manufacturing center. Mill villages formed around the factories, complete with worker housing, company stores, churches, and schools. Daily life in Hudson became closely tied to textile production, and the mills played a central role in shaping the town's economy and social structure.

The early 20th century brought periods of both prosperity and hardship. The Great Depression of the 1930s had a profound impact on Hudson, as reduced demand for textiles led to layoffs and financial strain. Despite these challenges, the town endured through strong community bonds and gradual economic recovery aided by federal relief programs and infrastructure improvements.

World War II brought renewed demand for textiles, revitalizing Hudson's mills and providing stable employment. The postwar years marked a period of growth and modernization, with expanded public services, improved roads, and new residential development. Families settled in the area, and the town continued to grow as a stable industrial community.

In the latter half of the 20th century, Hudson faced significant economic changes as the textile industry declined due to globalization and shifting manufacturing practices. Mill closures and downsizing required the town to adapt. Efforts to diversify the local economy became increasingly important, with growth in retail, small manufacturing, and service industries helping to offset industrial losses.

Despite these challenges, Hudson maintained its identity as a close-knit community. Historic mill structures and long-established neighborhoods serve as reminders of the town's industrial heritage. Community institutions, including schools, churches, and civic organizations, have continued to play an important role in maintaining local connections.

Today, Hudson is a residential and commercial town that balances its historical roots with modern development. Its economy includes a mix of small businesses, light manufacturing, and service industries. The town's history reflects resilience, adaptation, and continuity, shaped by generations of residents who contributed to its growth and character.