Ross Bridge has been a beloved neighborhood in the heart of Alabama for many years by offering new homebuyers a community like no other. From the distinctive neighborhoods and well-known Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, to the remarkable luxury resort hotel, and prime location in Hoover—it is no surprise that Ross Bridge has won countless awards for their community! Ross Bridge is known as a classic American resort town in part due to its ideal location in Hoover—one of Alabama’s premier cities. Hoover is one of the three primary cities in the Birmingham-Hoover-Cullman metro area, sitting along the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. It is the second largest city in Jefferson County, and the 6th largest in Alabama. Hoover is home to a number of popular Alabama destinations including the Riverchase Gallaria—one of the largest shopping centers in the Southeast. Ross Bridge’s home of Hoover has a rich history with a deeply-rooted past in the area. The area’s storied past and historic sights are yet another reason to consider buying a new home in Ross Bridge!
From Humble Beginnings…
The Hoover narrative dates as far back as the Creek Cession of 1814, when the federal government received the land that would be one day considered part of Jefferson County. Prior to 1814 this area had been inhabited by Creek, Cherokee, Choctaw and Chicksaw Indian tribes for thousands of years. The moment these tribes were forced to move westward, settlers from the southeastern coastal states began to move into the area. Among the earliest settlers were the Patton, Acton, Bailey, Hale and Tyler families, who built Hoover’s first sawmills, churches and schools.
Starting in 1853, settlers started mining coal in the Cahaba Coal Fields—set in the foothills of the Hoover Valley. Coal mining in the Hoover area was due in part to the Confederate government’s demand for the resource during the Civil War, which accelerated the Jefferson County coalmines for the duration of the war. The construction of the L & N Railroad in 1869 perpetuated and expanded the community’s coal industry, earning its place in Hoover’s history.
Historic Sites Around Town
Hoover is home to a number of historic sites from the 19th century that show the community’s deep roots in the region, adding to Hoover’s southern charm and allure. These historic sites are a treasured part of Hoover’s narrative, and popular local attractions. Dive into Hoover’s past and discover this unique community’s roots! Below are a few of our favorite local attractions, be sure to check out the Hoover Historical Society’s historical sites map and the city of Hoover’s official website for a full list of Hoover’s historic sites.
Stinson Ole Place
The Stinson Ole Place was built in the 1840’s by the Hugh Acey Mack Stinson family, and passed down for generations. The Stinson Ole Place is the centerpiece of Hoover’s Folklore Center—operated and maintained by the Hoover Historical Society. Today, the Folklore Center is devoted to educating the public about Hoover’s rich history and the lifestyles of their ancestors.
Shades Crest Road Historic District
One of Hoover’s two historic districts—Shades Crest Road, formerly known as the Indian Wagon Trail, is home to a number of authentic 19th century attractions including the Overseer’s House and Lover’s Leap.
Overseer’s House
The Overseer’s House was built in 1889 at the corner of present-day Chapel Road and Park Avenue in Bluff Park. This house was home to manager of the A/B/ Howell Peach Orchard, which was started in 1882 on the 560 acres surrounding the house.
Lover’s Leap
Lover’s Leap is known as one of the most breathtaking views in the area, overlooking Shades Creek and the valley below. Today, Lover’s Leap is known as a scenic hiking and picnic spot with beautiful views overlooking our beloved Ross Bridge community!
Up until this point, the Hoover area was primarily a small farming community, complete with lakes and rolling hills. Hoover’s humble beginnings have shaped the strong-rooted heritage of the community, making this wholesome city what it is today.
The City of Hoover has a rich, storied past with a number of unique historic attractions—just another reason Hoover an exciting place to live! Hoover complements Ross Bridge’s stunning, classic American resort community with its beautiful, historic setting. With Ross Bridge’s luxury homes, world-class amenities, ideal location and front-porch friendly charm—it is no wonder it is the hottest selling new home community in the Birmingham Area! To learn more about Ross Bridge’s beautiful homes and iconic neighborhoods, visit our website.
Sources
http://www.birminghamhomereview.com/ross-bridge/
http://www.hooverhistoricalsociety.org
http://www.hooveral.org/DocumentCenter/View/37
http://www.u-s-history.com/pages/h2307.html
http://www.hooverfiredepartment.org/page.asp?id=107