It was first documented as the "Hau River" by John Lawson, an English botanist, in his 1709 book "A New Voyage to Carolina."

In Alamance County, the Haw flows through Ossipee and passes north of Burlington, and through the unincorporated community of Carolina.

The course of the Haw River continues southeast in Chatham County as it flows just north of Pittsboro.

The river was first dammed in Saxapahaw in the 1850s and used for textile mills through the 19th and 20th centuries, and was a major factor in helping Alamance County to rebuild its local economy following the devastation of the American Civil War.

The decline of industry in the United States in the late 20th century has reduced pollution in the Haw River.

Efforts are underway to improve the ecology of the Haw River, but there is disagreement between various environmental groups, local governments, and economic interests as to how to proceed.

Recently, the newly revised Jordan Lake Rules[5] have improved regulatory issues which affect future pollution.

Occasionally, in the shallow, small upper pool, water from the WWTP raises nutrient levels above allowed limits.

Many located along the Haw and other river basins, providing employment and centers for communities since the Civil War era.

Though farming is under pressure, it continues to thrive, providing poultry, beef, grain, and other products for American consumption, bolstering a main export of the state.