Vein Mountain is located in the South Mountain belt which covers an area about 300 square miles. Rich placer deposits are found along the major streams
Brackettown also has several quartz veins and gold is also panned in the streams. Hydraulic mining was also introduced in the 1850s. A scientific method of operation was also introduced at Brackettown. 
During the Civil War, Union Troops looted homesites in McDowell County. What could not be placed underground was hidden in the woods or a deserted cabin.
The Cherokee Indians roamed through the fields and mountains of McDowell County. They are known for their hand carved wooden statues and clay bowls.
The Catawba Indians are well known for their pottery making