- Historic North Carolina mill village, featured as District 12 in The Hunger Games, is currently listed for sale at $1.95 million (~$3 million AUD).
- The property includes 73 acres and 20 original mill houses from 1905.
- Currently generates $20,000 USD annually from themed Airbnb rentals.
For fans of The Hunger Games, the opportunity to own a piece of cinematic history has finally arrived. The North Carolina Henry River Mill Village, which acted as the foreboding backdrop for District 12 in the blockbuster movie, is on the market for $1.95 million USD (~$3 million AUD) — a price tag that will perhaps surprise some, considering its cultural significance and vast 73-acre footprint.
This historic property, nestled in Hickory, North Carolina, was transformed into the dystopian coal mining district from which Jennifer Lawrence’s Katniss Everdeen, Peeta Mellark, and Gale Hawthorne began their journey to survival. The property contains approximately 30 residential buildings, 20 of which are original 1905 mill houses needing restoration, set along a peaceful river and the stunning Bakers Mountain Park.
From Textile Hub to Hollywood Icon
Established in 1905, Henry River Mill Village grew into a self-sustaining textile mill village complete with its own post office, store, and fire department. The village even had its own unique money called “doogaloos,” which testifies to how self-sufficient it was. The success of the community was not destined to last, however: financial difficulties resulted in the mill closing in 1970, and a fire in 1977 caused the village to be abandoned.
The village’s fortunes changed in 2011 when director Gary Ross chose it as the perfect site for District 12 in The Hunger Games. The dilapidated but quaint Company Store was restored as Mellark’s Bakery and played a starring role in the film’s storyline. The village has since become a booming tourist destination and was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2019.
A Future Beyond Fiction
Today, the property is split into two listings: a 42.92-acre parcel for $800,000 USD and a 28-acre section with various structures, such as a thriving Airbnb, for $1.15 million (USD). The themed rental currently generates about $20,000 USD annually, allowing fans to live in Katniss’s world while enjoying modern amenities.
The timing of the sale also coincides with the upcoming publication of Suzanne Collins’ prequel novel, Sunrise on the Reaping, and the 2026 film adaptation. For purchasers, the possibilities extend well beyond ownership. The heritage of the village, film connection, and natural setting present all manner of opportunities – from expanded accommodation facilities to outdoor adventure centres, themed restaurants, or even a museum for its industrial history and Hollywood connection.
For those looking to possess a piece of both pop culture history and a quaint rural village, Henry River Mill Village presents the opportunity to be a part of something very unique.
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