The Town of Madison was incorporated in 1873 and was named after President James Madison. It was known as a tobacco town during its early history, as it boasted many tobacco factories. In the mid-1900s, it transitioned from a tobacco town to a textile town. The town still has remnants of some of its old mills, and taking a stroll down Hunter street will have you in awe of the great historic homes. You will also see some of the businesses starting to populate its downtown, making it a great social district to eat, drink, and shop.