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Jacksonville, AL

Frequently asked questions

Jacksonville, AL

Jacksonville is a city in Calhoun County, Alabama, United States. It is included in the Anniston-Oxford Metropolitan Statistical Area. The city is home to Jacksonville State University, which is a center of commerce and one of the largest employers in the area.

Jacksonville was founded in 1833 on land purchased from Creek Indian Chief "Du-Hoag" Ladiga. First called Drayton, the town was renamed to honor President Andrew Jackson in 1834. There are a couple of Civil War monuments in town, including a statue of Major John Pelham in the city cemetery and a statue of a Confederate soldier in the middle of the square. Jacksonville served as the county seat for Calhoun County (pronounced Cal'n County) until the 20th century when it moved to Anniston. Jacksonville State University was founded here in 1883.

An EF3 tornado hit Jacksonville on March 19, 2018, causing extensive damage to the city and Jacksonville State University, almost $42 million in damages. The relatively low number of casualties, specifically just four injuries, was attributed by some to the fact that the university was on spring break at the time. More than 1,000 volunteers assisted in the immediate tornado relief. Caleb Howard, then a senior at Jacksonville State University, said it's been amazing to see the university and the community come together." Classes resumed at the university the following month. Although the university's usual site for graduation, Pete Mathews Coliseum, was damaged in the tornado along with over 20 other buildings, the first spring graduation since the tornado proceeded as scheduled on May 4 outside the football stadium. Dr. John Beeler, the university's president, said "It's a joyous event generally because you're celebrating the accomplishments of all your graduates, but it's an even more joyous event because to me it's a celebration of how far we've come in a short time in recovering from these tornadoes."

Major industries in Jacksonville include education, healthcare, and manufacturing, with the university playing a pivotal role in shaping the city's character.

Health and wellness are prioritized in Jacksonville, with the RMC Jacksonville Medical Center serving as a cornerstone for comprehensive healthcare services. There are also wellness and health centers. The Jackson Health and Rehabilitation Center provides a range of health and wellness services, including fitness classes, nutrition counseling, and health screenings. Studio Fit is a fitness studio offering group classes, personal training, and wellness workshops. Alabama Orthopaedic Center Wellness Center focuses on orthopedic rehabilitation, physical therapy, and sports medicine for wellness and recovery. Jacksonville Physical Therapy & Wellness provides physical therapy services, wellness programs, and injury prevention strategies. First Care Wellness Center offers primary care services with a focus on wellness, preventive care, and chronic disease management. Total Fitness Wellness Center provides fitness training, wellness coaching, and nutritional guidance for holistic health.

Top sites in Jacksonville, AL are Choccolocco Mountain, Anniston Museum of Natural History, and Germania Springs Park. 

Population: 14,651 (2024). ZIP code: 36265. Area code: 256. Elevation: 709 ft (216 m). Area: 10.92 sq mi (28.28 km2).

FAQs

What is Jacksonville, AL is known for?

Founded in 1833 on Creek Indian Chief Du-Hoag Ladiga's land, Jacksonville, Alabama is a city rich in history and modern amenities. Initially named Dayton, it was later renamed to honor President Andrew Jackson. Located in northeast Alabama, just twelve miles north of Anniston on Highway 21, the city is a blend of educational focus and Civil War heritage. Jacksonville State University, established in 1883, has been a cornerstone of the community, evolving from a State Normal School to a full-fledged university.

What is the history of Jacksonville, AL?

Nestled in the foothills of northeast Alabama, twelve miles north of Anniston on Highway 21, Jacksonville is a town steeped in history. The land that would become Jacksonville was purchased in 1833 from the Creek Indian Chief Ladiga. Because Ladiga was a signer of the Cusseta Treaty of 1832 under which terms the Creeks gave up their remaining lands, he was allowed to select land in the county and to have his title validated. Life here has long centered around education, beginning on April 16, 1834, when the town reserved a one-acre square for a schoolhouse.  In 1836 the Jacksonville Academy was incorporated and 1837 saw the establishment of the Jacksonville Female Academy.  In 1883 the Academy was recognized as a State Normal School and through the years, became Jacksonville State Teachers College before attaining full university status in 1966.

What makes Jacksonville, AL loved by tourists?

It is because of its attractions. Cheaha State Park is located atop Mt. Cheaha, the highest peak in Alabama at 2,407 feet, and is just a few minutes from Calhoun County. The park and the mountain take their name from the Creek word “Chaha,” which translates roughly to “High Place.” Cheaha State Park is located in the middle of the 280,000-acre Talladega National  Forest. The park is handicap accessible and provides majestic views, motel facilities, cabins, chalets,  and camping accommodations as well as fishing, hiking, and swimming.

Sources

City of Jacksonville

Wikipedia

Alabama Travel

Choccolocco Mountain

Anniston Museum of Natural History

Germania Springs Park

Jackson Health and Rehabilitation Center

Studio Fit

Alabama Orthopaedic Center Wellness Center

Jacksonville Physical Therapy & Wellness

Total Fitness Wellness Center 

RMC Jacksonville Medical Center 

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