Jacksonville, AL

County: Calhoun

History

Jacksonville, Alabama

Jacksonville, Alabama is a small city located in Calhoun County in the northeastern part of the state. Its history dates back to the early 19th century.

The area where present-day Jacksonville is situated was originally inhabited by the Creek Native American tribe. European settlers began arriving in the area in the early 1800s, with the establishment of a military road known as the Federal Road. This road played a crucial role in the removal of Native American tribes such as the Creek and the Cherokee from the Southeastern United States during the era of Indian removal in the 1830s.

In 1833, Governor John Gayle selected the area around the present-day Jacksonville as the site for a new state university. However, due to financial difficulties, the university was never established. Instead, the land was sold to the Jacksonville Land and Improvement Company, which laid out plans for the development of a town.

The town was officially incorporated as Jacksonville in 1836, and it grew steadily over the next few decades. Agriculture, particularly cotton and corn farming, was the primary economic activity during this time. Several merchants and tradesmen settled in the town to serve the needs of the growing population.

Jacksonville played a significant role during the civil war. The Confederate Army used the city as a supply base, and several skirmishes occurred in the surrounding area. The city also served as a refuge for Confederate soldiers and their families from nearby areas affected by the war.

After the civil war, Jacksonville continued to develop as an agricultural and commercial center. The growth of Jacksonville State University, founded in 1883 as Jacksonville State Normal School, also contributed to the town's growth and development. The university became a major economic and cultural hub for the city, attracting students from all over the state.

Over the years, the city experienced periods of growth and decline, influenced by factors such as the economy, transportation, and education. Today, Jacksonville continues to thrive as a small yet vibrant city with a strong sense of community and a rich historical heritage. It is known for its beautiful landscape, cultural events, and recreational opportunities, making it an appealing place to live or visit in Alabama.

Attractions

Jacksonville State University

Jacksonville State University

This public university campus offers a variety of events, including athletic games, art exhibitions, and theatrical productions.

Paul Snow Stadium

Home to Jacksonville State University's football team, this stadium hosts exciting college football games.

Little River Canyon National Preserve

Located about 40 minutes from Jacksonville, this preserve is known for its stunning waterfalls, hiking trails, and scenic views.

Chief Ladiga Trail

This 33-mile-long trail starts in Jacksonville and stretches into Georgia. It's great for walking, running, cycling, and skating.

Berman Museum of World History

Located on the campus of Jacksonville State University, this museum exhibits an extensive collection of artifacts from various periods of world history.

Eagle Point Golf Club

Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round of golf at this well-maintained golf course in nearby Birmingham.

Anniston Museum of Natural History

This museum, located in Anniston (about 15 minutes from Jacksonville), features exhibits on nature, geology, and indigenous cultures.

Oxford Exchange

Just a short drive away, Oxford Exchange offers shopping, dining, and entertainment options, including a movie theater and various retail stores.

Quintard Mall

Situated in Oxford, this shopping mall offers a wide array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Talladega Superspeedway

Racing fans can visit this famous NASCAR racetrack located about 30 minutes from Jacksonville for exciting events and races.

Climate

The climate of Jacksonville, Alabama is classified as humid subtropical. Summers tend to be hot and humid with average temperatures in the high 80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (around 30 Celsius). However, temperatures can occasionally reach the upper 90s (around 37 Celsius) during heatwaves.

Winters in Jacksonville are generally mild with temperatures averaging in the mid-50s to low 60s Fahrenheit (around 10-15 Celsius). However, colder outbreaks can occur with temperatures dropping below freezing, especially at night.

Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with the wettest months being February and March. Thunderstorms are common during the summer months, and occasional severe weather such as tornadoes can occur.

Snowfall in Jacksonville is relatively rare, but light snow showers can occasionally be seen during the winter months.

Overall, the climate in Jacksonville, Alabama features hot and humid summers, mild winters, and moderate precipitation throughout the year.

Neighborhoods

Jacksonville, AL is a small city located in Calhoun County, Alabama. While it may not have many officially recognized neighborhoods, the city is divided into several areas that offer different living experiences. Here are some notable areas in Jacksonville:

Downtown

The heart of Jacksonville, downtown is a vibrant area with a mix of residential, commercial, and civic buildings. It is home to the Jacksonville State University campus, local businesses, shops, and restaurants. The downtown area has a charming small-town atmosphere and hosts various events throughout the year.

Gamecock Village

Located near the university, Gamecock Village is a popular residential neighborhood primarily occupied by JSU students. It offers a range of apartments and townhomes, making it an attractive living option for students looking for convenient access to campus facilities.

Westside

Situated on the western side of the city, the Westside neighborhood is a mix of residential and commercial areas. It offers a variety of housing options, including single-family homes and apartments. This area has a quieter suburban feel but is still within close proximity to downtown.

Northeast Jacksonville

This area is mainly residential and features numerous single-family homes, including traditional houses and newer subdivisions. Northeast Jacksonville tends to be more suburban, offering a quieter and more residential lifestyle.

Pelham Heights

Located on the eastern side of the city, Pelham Heights is a residential neighborhood with a mix of housing styles, including older homes and newer developments. It offers a suburban feel with tree-lined streets and a sense of community.

Golden Springs

Situated to the south of Jacksonville, Golden Springs is a well-established neighborhood with a mixture of housing types. It is known for its convenience, with various shopping centers, restaurants, and businesses located nearby. The area has a suburban feel and attracts a diverse range of residents.

These are just a few examples of the different neighborhoods in Jacksonville, AL. Each area offers its own unique characteristics and amenities to suit various lifestyles and preferences.

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