Midfield, AL

County: Jefferson

History

Midfield, Alabama

Midfield is a small city located in Jefferson County, Alabama, United States. It was incorporated on October 5, 1953, and has a population of approximately 5,100 people as of the 2020 census.

The history of Midfield dates back to the early 20th century when it was primarily rural farmland. The area was known as Woodward's Crossing, named after a local family, due to its location near a railroad crossing. The tracks of the Alabama and Tennessee River Railroad, later acquired by the Louisville and Nashville Railroad, passed through the area, contributing to its growth.

In the early 1930s, the area experienced an influx of residents due to jobs created by the construction of the nearby Fairfield Works, a steel mill operated by United States Steel Corporation. With the growing population and increasing development, the need for local services and infrastructure became evident.

In 1953, Midfield was officially incorporated as a city. The name "Midfield" was chosen because it was midway between the cities of Birmingham and Bessemer, two major industrial centers in the region. The city's first mayor, J.R. Wallace, led the efforts to establish a local government and provide essential services to the residents.

Over the years, Midfield has faced both challenges and opportunities for growth. The decline of the steel industry in the region had an impact on the local economy, leading to a shift towards a more diversified industrial and commercial base. The city has also faced issues related to urban decay and the need for revitalization.

Despite these challenges, Midfield has made efforts to enhance the quality of life for its residents. The city has developed parks, recreational facilities, and community centers to provide recreational and social opportunities. Local schools and churches play a vital role in the community, fostering a sense of unity and belonging.

Today, Midfield continues to evolve as a small suburban city. Efforts are being made to attract businesses and promote economic development, aiming to create a sustainable future for the community. The city's location near major transportation routes, such as Interstate 20/59, offers advantages for potential investors.

Overall, Midfield's history reflects the changes and challenges faced by many small towns and cities in Alabama. As it strives for progress and development, the community holds onto its roots and works towards a better future for its residents.

Attractions

Jefferson Metropolitan Park

Jefferson Metropolitan Park

This park offers picnic areas, playgrounds, walking trails, and fishing opportunities.

Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

Located nearby in Birmingham, this museum explores the history of the civil rights movement in America.

Birmingham Museum of Art

Also in Birmingham, this museum features an extensive collection of art from around the world.

Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum

A short drive away in Birmingham, this museum showcases a vast collection of vintage motorcycles and race cars.

Vulcan Park and Museum

This park is home to the 56-foot-tall Vulcan statue, which offers panoramic views of Birmingham.

Birmingham Botanical Gardens

A beautiful garden with various plant collections, including a Japanese garden and a rose garden.

Red Mountain Park

Located in Birmingham, this park offers hiking and mountain biking trails, as well as ziplining and other outdoor activities.

McWane Science Center

This interactive science museum in Birmingham features exhibits on topics such as dinosaurs, space, and human anatomy.

Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark

This 19th-century iron manufacturing facility in Birmingham offers guided tours and hosts special events.

Regions Field

Home to the Birmingham Barons minor league baseball team, this stadium offers a fun sports experience.

Climate

Midfield, AL is located in the southern United States and experiences a humid subtropical climate. The summers in Midfield are typically hot and humid, with average high temperatures in the mid to upper 80s Fahrenheit (30-32 degrees Celsius) and occasional peaks in the 90s Fahrenheit (around 35 degrees Celsius). Humidity levels can be quite high, making it feel even hotter.

Winters in Midfield are generally mild, with average highs in the upper 50s to low 60s Fahrenheit (around 15 degrees Celsius). However, temperatures occasionally drop below freezing at night, and snowfall is possible but rare.

Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year, with slightly more precipitation during the spring and fall. Thunderstorms are common in Midfield during the summer months, and the area is also prone to severe weather, including tornadoes, particularly during the spring.

Overall, Midfield, AL has a warm and moderately wet climate, typical of the southeastern region of the United States.

Neighborhoods

Midfield, Alabama is a small city located in Jefferson County. It is a suburb of Birmingham and is home to approximately 5,100 residents. While Midfield is not divided into distinct neighborhoods, there are several areas within the city that have their own characteristics and amenities. Here are a few notable areas within Midfield:

Bayview

Located in the southeastern corner of Midfield, Bayview is a residential area with a mix of single-family homes and apartment complexes. It is known for its proximity to Bayview Lake, where residents can enjoy boating and fishing activities.

Rutledge Heights

Situated in the eastern part of Midfield, Rutledge Heights features affordable housing options, including apartments and small houses. The neighborhood is centrally located and offers easy access to various amenities and schools.

McAdory

Located on the western side of Midfield, McAdory is a predominantly residential area with a mix of housing styles. It is a quiet neighborhood with tree-lined streets and is known for its close-knit community atmosphere.

Central Park

Situated in the northern part of Midfield, Central Park is a small community mainly consisting of single-family homes. The area offers residents easy access to local parks, such as Midfield City Park, which provides green spaces and recreational facilities.

Midfield Gardens

This neighborhood is situated near the heart of Midfield and features a mix of single-family homes and townhomes. Midfield Gardens is a well-established community with a variety of amenities, including schools, shopping centers, and restaurants.

While Midfield may not have distinct and well-known neighborhoods like larger cities, it offers a range of residential options and amenities for its residents.

Nearby Cities