Raeford saw its first electric lights turned on in 1910; prior to this event there were 12 one-room schools open four to six months each year.
Bain is dedicated to supporting local businesses and takes an extra step by sharing posts on social media about his favorite spots around town.
OUR MISSION
Hoke County Chamber is dedicated to encouraging business growth and providing leadership in community affairs while improving quality of life for its citizens. A volunteer-run organization, this Chamber acts on behalf of its members with professional practices.
The Chamber’s mission is to assist businesses by encouraging economic development and providing a forum for the exchange of ideas. Furthermore, the Chamber serves as an advocate for its business members, leading in areas like economic development, governmental affairs, community improvement and supporting tourism within Raeford and Hoke County.
Kurt Posey moved from Florida to Raeford 11 years ago, and has never looked back since. Now an Executive Vice President/Director/Trustee at Sun Path Products and actively involved in Kiwanis and Fall Festival Board activities; Kurt has also played an instrumental role in Downtown Raeford redevelopment efforts.
Shelley Wilburn, owner of Wilburn Lofts meeting and event center in downtown Raeford, and other business owners with an interest in Raeford are working to bring back First Fridays in the downtown. Together they have established the Downtown Raeford Business Association (DRBA) nonprofit with plans for memberships from businesses with an affinity for Raeford.
OUR VISION
Our vision is to act as the community’s catalyst and leader in creating and maintaining an engaging downtown.
Businesses should be encouraged to support local economies by purchasing goods and services from our town and county businesses, which will in turn foster pride among residents and promote more local commerce in our town and county. It will also create jobs here that make this place so appealing as a living and working space.
Raeford, North Carolina was established when the Aberdeen and Rockfish Railroad arrived, near what is now Rockfish Creek swimming hole. John McRae and A. A. Williford operated a small store together near here which later served as post office; each contributed one syllable towards creating “Raeford”.
At the time of Hoke County’s creation, there was only one high school: Raeford Institute was private; in 1911 the legislature provided for public high schools which opened for school year 1912-1913. There were also small one-room schools located throughout rural districts during its initial years of existence.
In 1961, Raeford County celebrated its golden jubilee. To commemorate this event, a souvenir program with brief histories of both Raeford and its county was published and can still be found at your local library.
OUR VALUES
Raeford City Council members set the city tax rate and water and sewer rates, oversee local parks within city limits, make decisions on zoning matters and collaborate with county and state elected officials on various issues. Joshua Bain, Johnny Boyles, Cathy Brown, David Conoly, Shirley Hart Ricky Sandy and Charles Tapp are running for one of nine seats available on Raeford City Council.
Raeford City was established in 1895 around Raeford Institute, a high school conceived of and constructed by Dr. and Mrs. A. P. Dickson with assistance from J. W. McLouchlin and other local residents who saw its potential.
Boyles recognizes the significance of making smart use of undeveloped land within Raeford as part of the city’s future development, as well as an effort to encourage visitors to stop by downtown Raeford and spend their money there.
Sandy has over 34 years of experience working in the insurance business. After graduating from Hoke County High School and Wilson Tech, he became involved with chamber of commerce, Jaycees and National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors organizations over time. His primary goal has been providing outstanding client service by finding policies tailored specifically for each person’s goals and dreams.
OUR COMMUNITY
Raeford is located in Hoke County and home to approximately 4,743 residents, making up the sparse suburban feel that characterizes it. Most residents own their homes, while many locals take part in community events and civic stewardship initiatives. Raeford boasts several public parks as well as being recognized as an innovator when it comes to conserving longleaf pines.
City has achieved national attention thanks to the annual North Carolina Turkey Festival, an event celebrating North Carolina as a leader in turkey production and drawing up to 60,000 attendees each year.
Kurt Posey moved to Raeford from Florida 11 years ago, and quickly immersed himself into his community. He is actively involved with Kiwanis Club, Fall Festival Board and was named Citizen of the Year by Kiwanis. Additionally, Kurt serves on Chamber’s Executive Committee and Downtown Raeford revitalization effort efforts.
Brad Calloway is the third-generation owner of Raeford Hardware, purchased by his grandfather and father in 1973. Since then, three expansions have taken place to increase space to approximately 9,000 square feet; continuing the hometown feel and family feel established by Brad’s grandfather as it remains one of the major employers in town.
