Swain County is Home

Fred Crawford

I’m a farmer, community volunteer, and advocate for good government. Swain County will always be my home. I love these mountains and want to preserve our mountain culture while growing our local economy.

My wife Maggie brought me here from Texas 25 years ago. She came here in 1981 and worked 17 years at the NOC while raising her three boys – Matt, Adam, and Jonathon Clawson – all graduates of Swain County High School. During our 25 years of marriage, we came back and forth to visit friends, family, and grandkids, and when we retired 11 years ago, we moved onto our farm on Conleys Creek and put down roots for good.

We have four grandchildren, including our youngest, who graduated from Swain High and is now working her way through Western Carolina University. She is a big reason why I’m running. I want a Swain County where our kids, grandkids, and great grandkids can find good jobs, afford a home, and build a future right here in these beautiful mountains.

A Career in Public Service

For more than twenty-five years, I served in leadership roles in public service, managing large organizations, leading multidisciplinary teams, overseeing multi-million dollar budgets, and helping guide complex projects from planning through completion.

Those experiences taught me how to listen, solve problems, manage taxpayer resources responsibly, and bring people together to make thoughtful decisions. They also taught me that leadership is about serving others, communicating openly, and earning the public’s trust.

Fred Crawford beekeeper

Serving Swain County

I believe leadership begins with service. Long before deciding to run for Chairman, I looked for opportunities to give back to the community we call home.

Whether protecting our natural resources, supporting agriculture, advocating for older adults, working with area schools, or volunteering with local organizations, I’ve always believed that serving others is one of the most meaningful ways to strengthen our community.

A waterfall flowing over rocks surrounded by dense green trees and foliage

As a member of the Board of Directors and Chair of the Lands Committee for Mainspring Conservation Trust, I’ve helped protect thousands of acres of forests, streams, and special mountain landscapes across Western North Carolina.

Conserving these unique places helps preserve our natural heritage, protects water quality, supports hunting and fishing, outdoor recreation, and the tourism economy that are so important to Swain County.

Conservation

Fred Crawford and Maggie Parkes own Dogwood Farm

Agriculture

Small farms are a part of our Appalachian culture. My wife Maggie and I own and operate Dogwood Farm on Conleys Creek, where we raise honey bees, produce local honey, and enjoy the rewards and challenges of small-scale farming.

Farming has deepened my appreciation for the land and the importance of supporting local agriculture.

Three smiling people standing together in front of a framed painting of a legislative assembly room. The group includes two men and one woman, all wearing glasses.

Advocate for Seniors

As Swain County’s delegate to the North Carolina Senior Tar Heel Legislature, I work with representatives from across the state to advocate for policies that improve the lives of older adults.

From affordable housing and healthcare to property tax relief and aging in place, I believe older adults deserve a strong voice in the decisions that affect their lives.

Strong communities are built by neighbors who volunteer their time and talents. I’m grateful to serve alongside so many dedicated people through organizations including:

  • Swain County Agricultural Fair – Former Board Secretary and helped establish the nonprofit organization.

  • Smoky Mountain Beekeepers Association - Former president working to promote beekeeping education.

  • Swain County Genealogical & Historical Society – Supporting the preservation of our community’s rich history.

  • Friends of the Marianna Black Library – Supporting literacy, lifelong learning, and one of our community’s most valuable public resources.

Community Involvement

Fred Crawford supports Swain County Fair

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Fred Crawford is running for Chairman of the Swain County Board of Commissioners in the 2026 general election.

  • Fred Crawford is running as an unaffiliated candidate. He believes county government should focus on practical solutions, responsible leadership, and the needs of Swain County residents.

  • Fred spent approximately 25 years working for a public electric and water utility, where he managed employees, contractors, budgets, land, public assets, and major projects. He has also served in several Swain County community organizations.

  • Fred Crawford lives in Whittier and operates Dogwood Farm on Conleys Creek in Swain County.

  • His priorities include promoting responsible government, carefully managing taxpayer dollars, growing our economy, strengthening our schools, supporting public safety, and protecting Swain County’s mountain character.

  • You can volunteer, request a yard sign, attend an event, make a contribution, or help introduce Fred to friends and neighbors across Swain County.