Wendell, North Carolina, received its name based on a school teacher's preference in poets, which happened to be Oliver Wendell Holmes.
Wendell claims the motto, "Small town feel--capital city connection," referring to its proximity to North Carolina's capital, Raleigh. The town is in Wake County with a population of 5,845 according to the 2010 census. This town values its meandering lifestyle juxtaposed against the capital city rush and bustle. In the 1850s, farmers from Granville County settled Wendell in response to severe tobacco plant blight. Wendell was incorporated in 1903. Portions of the town is listed in the National Register of Historic Places, including Dr. Thomas H. Avera House, Harmony Plantation, Riley Hill School, Sunnyside historic home, and Wendell commercial Historic District. Birthplace of Greg Ellis, an Oakland Raiders football player, and home to the creator of the bar code, George J. Laurer, Wendell lives up to its famous namesake, priding itself in its small-town community and historic relevance.
Moving to Wendell
Po-tay-to, Puh-tah-to
Pronunciation of a word can make anyone stand out like that one piece of grass that the lawn mower missed. Wendell is no exception. The town's name gained a special cadence distinct from the pronunciation of Oliver Wendell Holmes' middle name. Folks say that the train conductor would call out the town's name with equal emphasis on the two syllables, creating the tradition of "wen-dell" rather than "wen-dell." Forget that first pronunciation of Wendell and blend with the locals by saying Wendell.
Rooting In
Finding 1 bedroom apartments or a home for rent in Wendell will be no problem. Although there is not much vacancy, Wendell has a development plan set into action to create more living accommodations for current and new residents. Rental condos may be hard to find, but other rental properties in Wendell are available. If a home for rent is your Southern fare, be prepared to choose between 2 to 4 bedrooms and 1 to 3 bathrooms. Apartments for rent in Wendell offer the choice of amenities including patios, balconies, laundry, community center, dishwasher, outdoor community area, and storage. There is something for everyone in Wendell.
Marrying the Historic and Modern
The Wendell Comprehensive Plan implements a creative process of blending present day Wendell with Historic Wendell. This plan focuses on protecting the history of Wendell while encouraging the new. Old buildings are re-purposed and modernized while preserving the historic beauty to better accommodate businesses and residents. Upscale condos for rent will effortlessly fit into the skyline of this town. The community schedules events and entertainment, boosting interaction and after-work fun. Wendell embraces the downtown inspirations of nearby Selma, Cameron Village, and Newberry for this developmental plan.
Sign Here
Drive out to Wendell to see possible living places before signing the lease. Check if the apartment offices require appointments to view the space or if walk-ins are welcome. Most prefer appointments so call ahead. While scheduling the visit, be sure to ask about any requirements that the management might have for residents and what types of ID, proof of employment, or references maybe be desired. Be ready to put a deposit down. Better to be equipped to find the right space and have everything on hand than need to worry about missing out on the ideal home because important paperwork was left behind. And sign that lease with relish.
Wendell Neighborhoods
Downtown Wendell boasts the picturesque architecture of times gone past. Dress the residents in clothes from the 1900s and no one will know the difference, unless of course a truck roars past. The crime rates in this area are lower than average, further proving a good living climate. Open spaces coupled with lively town life crafts a unique and wonderful living experience.
Wendell Falls: This exciting new area planned by the town of Wendell hosts an amenity center including a community center, clubhouse, and pool. The plan contains residential and commercial development.
Wendell Town Center: Considered a rural neighborhood based upon population density, this part of town has a high average of rent. The Cotton Exchange, Zepp's Country Music, and Aubrey's and Peedie's Grill spotlight as resident favorites.
Top Apartment Communities
Sandy Ridge Apartments: Managed by Evergreen Construction Company, these apartments offer quality living accommodations with excellent services. A few examples of these are washer and dryer connections, a computer center, a picnic and grill area, and a community room.
Living in Wendell
Wendell pursues the creation of an active and interesting community by planning events such as street dances and festivals and encouraging participation in local clubs. If the outdoors is a particular favorite, Wendell lists three recreational parks in its boundaries: Wendell Park, Wendell Community Center, and J. Ashley Wall Town Square. For the history enthusiasts, consider joining the Wendell Historic Society or visiting all the places in Wendell listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Participate in serving the community of Wendell by joining the Wendell Lions Club, Wheels for Wishes, and Wendell Woman's Club. Keep up with Wendell's community events by liking the "Town of Wendell" Facebook page.
If the small town feel is a bit much, merge onto US 64 for the capital city connection taking you straight to Raleigh in twenty-five minutes for some big city entertainment. Wendell boasts Ice Cream Specialties--but wait, it's a repair shop specializing in ice cream machines. If the sweet tooth has got you in a cramp, head to the Cakery 'n Bakery for a floating and iced solution. Shopping therapy in Wendell comes in the family-run Kannon's Clothing; the founder's simple belief was that, "I'd rather you leave empty handed than with a garment that is not right for you." Visit Lizard Lick Towing and Recovery to meet Ron and Amy Shirley, reality television stars. Quiet tummy rumblings with Boulevard Pizza or Agave Mexican Bar and Grill. Don't forget to prove yourself a local by your Wendell pronunciation.