Hohenwald was settled by German immigrants. The name translates to "High Forest." The original 1896 NC&StL Hohenwald Depot has been restored to its original appearance. As one of the first buildings constructed in the town, the Depot welcomed the new settlers. Later, it witnessed visits from Thomas Edison (coming to the region to find Cobalt) and William Wrigley, as well as served as a work site for German prisoners of war from Rommel’s African Corps during WWII. This Depot was moved several times over the years but returned to its original location and restored in 1985.