Hartselle, Alabama

There is plenty of antique and thrift store shopping in this town. When we last visited, a metal awning was being erected along the entire length of the shopping district for the cooling benefit of summertime visitors. The town was founded in 1873 and named for George Hartselle, a founding father. Hartselle proclaims itself The City of Southern Hospitality. The town holds its Depot Days celebration each September in remembrance of its heritage as a strategic site along the South and North Alabama Railroad. Sparkman Park, located behind the Civic Center, is an 80-acre recreation oasis in the midst of the city. The Civic Center and Park features full-size basketball courts, racquetball court, two lighted tennis courts, lighted fields, walking trail, two lighted soccer fields, an Olympic size swimming pool with slide and concession stand, and twenty acres of wooded area with picnic pavilions, tables and playground areas. Hartselle is easily accessible just 2 miles west of Interstate 65 in northern Alabama.