Hazel Green, AL

County: Madison

History

Hazel Green, Alabama

Hazel Green, Alabama, is a small community located in Madison County, in the northern part of the state. Its history dates back to the early 19th century when the area was settled by pioneers and farmers.

The community takes its name from the hazel bushes that once grew abundantly in the area, giving it a green appearance. The land was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Cherokee and Chickasaw, before European settlers arrived in the late 1810s.

One of the first settlers in the area was a man named Samuel Hazle, who arrived in 1817 and established a trading post. The spelling of the community's name was later changed to "Hazel Green," combining the settler's name and the description of the local vegetation.

Hazel Green grew steadily throughout the 19th century, attracting more settlers and establishing a thriving agricultural community. The arrival of the Memphis and Charleston Railroad in the 1850s brought further growth and economic development to the area. The railroad enabled farmers to transport their produce easily, leading to the establishment of various businesses and industries in the town.

During the Civil War, Hazel Green became an important strategic point due to its proximity to the railroad. In 1863, the area witnessed a significant event known as the Battle of New Market. Confederate forces, including a group of young cadets from the Virginia Military Institute, fought against Union troops. The Confederate forces emerged victorious, but with significant losses.

After the war, Hazel Green continued its agricultural focus, with cotton, corn, and other crops being the main products. The community also experienced growth with the establishment of schools, churches, and small businesses. It remained mostly a rural farming community until the mid-20th century.

In recent decades, Hazel Green has seen increased residential development as part of the overall growth in the greater Huntsville metropolitan area. Today, it is a mix of residential neighborhoods, agricultural areas, and small businesses. The community still reflects its rural roots, with a tight-knit and friendly atmosphere.

Overall, the history of Hazel Green is characterized by its agricultural heritage, its strategic importance during the Civil War, and its transformation into a more residential community in recent decades.

Attractions

Hazel Green Museum

Hazel Green Museum

This museum showcases the history and heritage of Hazel Green and includes exhibits on the local community, landmarks, and artifacts.

Joe Wheeler State Park

Located nearby in Rogersville, this state park offers a wide range of recreational activities, including camping, fishing, hiking, boating, and swimming.

Cathedral Caverns State Park

Situated in Woodville, this park features one of Alabama's largest cave openings and offers guided tours to explore its unique formations.

Huntsville Botanical Garden

Just a short drive away, this beautiful garden spans over 100 acres and features a variety of themed gardens, walking trails, and interactive exhibits.

U.S. Space & Rocket Center

Located in nearby Huntsville, this museum is a must-visit for space enthusiasts, showcasing a variety of exhibits related to space exploration, including rockets, interactive displays, and simulators.

Monte Sano State Park

Situated on Monte Sano Mountain, this scenic park offers stunning views of the surrounding area, hiking trails, camping sites, picnic areas, and a Japanese Garden.

Huntsville Museum of Art

This acclaimed art museum in Huntsville features a diverse collection of artwork, including American, African, and European art, as well as temporary exhibitions.

Harmony Park Safari

Located in Huntsville, this drive-through safari park allows visitors to get up close with various animal species, including giraffes, zebras, camels, and lemurs.

Veterans Memorial Park

Situated in nearby Madison, this park honors veterans and offers memorials, walking paths, picnic areas, and a fishing pond.

Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge

Located in nearby Decatur, this wildlife refuge spans over 35,000 acres and provides opportunities for bird watching, hiking, photography, and wildlife observation.

Climate

Hazel Green, Alabama experiences a humid subtropical climate. The summers in Hazel Green are hot and humid, with average high temperatures ranging from the low 90s°F (32-34°C) in June to the mid-90s°F (35-36°C) in July and August. Humidity levels are usually high during this time, making it feel even hotter.

Winters in Hazel Green are generally mild, with average high temperatures in the 50s°F (10-15°C) and average lows in the 30s°F (0-5°C). However, there can be occasional cold spells where temperatures drop below freezing, especially during January. Snowfall is relatively rare but can occur a few times throughout the winter.

Spring and autumn bring mild and comfortable weather to Hazel Green, with cooler temperatures compared to summer but still generally pleasant. During these seasons, average high temperatures range from the upper 60s°F (18-20°C) to the 70s°F (21-25°C), while average lows range from the 40s°F (5-10°C) to the 50s°F (10-15°C).

Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year in Hazel Green, with slightly higher precipitation in the spring and fall months. On average, the area receives around 53 inches (135 cm) of rain per year. Thunderstorms occasionally occur during the spring and summer months.

Overall, the climate of Hazel Green, AL is characterized by hot and humid summers, mild winters, and comfortable spring and autumn seasons.

Neighborhoods

Hazel Green, Alabama is a small community located in Madison County. Although it is a relatively small area, there are a few distinct neighborhoods within Hazel Green.

Hazel Green City Center

This is the heart of the community, where you'll find most of the local businesses and services. The City Center area offers a mix of residential housing, as well as restaurants, shops, and other amenities. It is a convenient location for those who want to be close to the action and enjoy a sense of community.

Coldwater Creek

Coldwater Creek is a neighborhood situated north of the city center, known for its picturesque landscapes and peaceful atmosphere. The area features beautiful homes with large lots, providing residents with plenty of space and privacy. Residents can enjoy the tranquility of the countryside while still being within a short distance of the city center.

Fairview

Fairview is another neighborhood located to the east of Hazel Green. It is known for its family-friendly environment and has a mix of single-family homes and larger estates. The community hosts various events and activities, making it a great place for families with children.

Meridianville

While not technically part of Hazel Green, the neighboring community of Meridianville is worth mentioning as it is closely connected and often considered part of the same area. Meridianville features a mix of residential and rural areas, with easy access to shops and restaurants. It is a popular choice for those looking for a more suburban feel with larger properties and a close-knit community.

Overall, Hazel Green and its surrounding neighborhoods offer a variety of living options, each with its own unique charm and character. Whether you prefer a bustling city center or a tranquil countryside setting, there is something for everyone in this small Alabama community.

Nearby Cities