Cornelius was established in 1905 and originated as a mill and farm community. Originally incorporated as ‘Liverpool', the town's name was changed to Cornelius to honor Joseph Benjamin Cornelius. The man that supplied the needed investment for a cotton mill where raw cotton could be converted into cloth. The damming of the Catawba River to create Lake Norman was as influential as the cotton industry to the town's development and growth. In 1963, Duke Power created Lake Norman and provided the area with recreational opportunities and a source of hydroelectric power.
The formation of Lake Norman also provided Cornelius with approximately 70 miles of choice lakeside property. Now, Cornelius is a diverse community and destination for some lake fun. Visitors can rent boats, jet skis, or paddle boards at one of the marinas or explore the unique attractions, waterfront restaurants, lakeside parks and shops that Cornelius has to offer.
Town of Cornelius' Visit Lake Norman (VLN) Board of Directors Representation:
VLN Board of Directors' town representative is appointed by the town Mayor for each Fiscal Year (July 1 - June 30), and serves a one-year term.
Visit Lake Norman sends bi-monthly reports to the VLN Board of Director representative.
