Gem of the Hills - Jacksonville, Alabama

In 1834, the town built on land, once Creek Territory, was named Jacksonville for Andrew Jackson.

Also in 1834, Jacksonville began its storied history in education when the town reserved a one-acre square for a schoolhouse. Over the years, the school developed from the Jacksonville Academy into Jacksonville State Teachers College. Today, known as Jacksonville State University, it is one of Alabama's most prestigious institutes of higher education.

Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachians, historic Jacksonville truly lives up to its nickname - the Gem of the Hills with its picturesque neighborhoods, the charm of its public square, it beckons to many. Come for a visit, and prepare to make yourself at home! For more information, visit www.jacksonville-al.org.

The Chief Ladiga Trail

Weaver/Jacksonville/Piedmont

Because of their close proximity, the cities of Jacksonville, Piedmont, & Weaver share a location along the Chief Ladiga Trail. It is the state's first extended rails-to-trails project and has provided locals with an excellent family-friendly recreational venue, complete with areas for hiking, mountain biking, and more. The Chief Ladiga Trail currently runs 32.5 miles from the Alabama/Georgia line into the City of Weaver. The City of Anniston recently acquired more land for the trails extension into downtown Anniston. As Alabama’s first Rails to Trails project, this paved recreational trail follows the former Seaboard/CSX Railroad and connects to Georgia’s 63 mile Silver Comet Trail, making Ladiga part of the longest paved rail trail in the U.S. This recreational opportunity can be enjoyed by walkers, bikers, skaters, strollers and more. Beautiful sights like area forests, farmlands, streams and mountains provide picturesque scenery for each and every visit. For more information, visit www.chiefladigatrail.com.

 

Jacksonville State University

700 Pelham Rd North, Jacksonville, 256-782-5781

With a variety of drama and musical productions, art exhibits, special lecture series and speakers and various sporting events offered throughout the year, Jacksonville State University, the “Gem of the Hills,” is a wonderful source of cultural opportunities for the area. Their continuing education department also offers a variety of courses for personal advancement. For more information, visit www.jsu.edu.

Choccolocco Mountain Off-Road Vehicle Park

1312 Louise Dr SE, Jacksonville, 256-365-0297

This Off-Road Vehicle Park welcomes every type of off-road vehicle, including ATV’s, Side-by-sides, dirt bikes, four wheel drives, rail buggies, and rock crawlers. This 450 acres of forest covered mountains has a vast trail system, with moderate to extreme trails for more advanced vehicles. For more information, visit www. choccoloccomountain.com.

Stoney Brook Golf Course

1505 Country Club Dr SW, Jacksonville, 256-435-3114

This 18 hole par 72 course features 6,296 yards of golf from the long tees, with a slope rating of 115. For more information, visit www.golfstoneybrookgc.com. 

Piedmont, Alabama

 In 1888, this area was named Piedmont—meaning 'Foot of the Mountains,’ which was pleasing to the people who enjoyed being nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountain range surrounded with the scenic beauty of mountains and streams. The City of Piedmont has prime real estate as well as the infrastructure necessary for industrial and commercial growth. This area is home to the Chief Ladiga Trail and Terrapin Creek, perfect for any outdoor adventurer, with the Pinhoti Trail not very far away. For more information, visit www.piedmontcity.org.

Eubanks Welcome Center

202 Dailey Street, Piedmont, (256) 447-3363

Built in 1889 for the Eubanks Family as a General Store, it was moved to its current location in 1998 and serves as the Welcome Center for the Chief Ladiga Trail.

Dugger Mountain

Alabama 9, Kings Gap Mountain Road, 256-453-2504

The second highest peak in the state of Alabama is home to hundreds of plants, animals and trails for hiking and more. This part of the Talladega National Forest is the perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts looking for breathtaking scenery. Dugger Mountain is also home to the Dugger Mountain Music Hall, along Highway 9. Each third Saturday night of the month, the doors are opened to welcome the community to enjoy family entertainment at no charge. This show is broadcast on Alabama Public Television each Tuesday night at 10 PM. For more information, visit www.duggermountainmusic.com.

Terrapin Creek

4114 County Rd. 175, Piedmont, 256-447-8383

Canoe or kayak down the beautiful Terrapin Creek, and take in scenery like you’ve never seen. Cool off in the spring feed water, and enjoy fun for the whole family. For more information, visit www.canoeshop.net.

Upcoming Events!
2nd Annual Piedmont Polar Plunge
January 3, 2015
10 A.M.
At Piedmont’s new aquatics center, 500 Mill Street, each January they host a Polar Plunge to benefit a local non-profit supporting area cancer patients, Venecia's Foundation.

Near Atlanta, Near Birmingham, Near Perfect

It's really a short drive from everywhere. 

Situated along I-20, nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Calhoun County is near perfect. If one were to throw a dart to choose a destination for natural attractions and historical significance, Calhoun County would be a bull’s eye every time. Almost halfway between Atlanta and Birmingham, Calhoun County isn’t far from Tennessee, Georgia, Florida or Mississippi. “We have invested lots of money and planning into bringing people here to enjoy what we have to offer. We feel like an hour or two’s drive to enjoy all this will definitely be worth the trip,” says Anniston City Councilman Jay Jenkins of Anniston and other municipalities’ joint endeavors and investment in tourism.

County and area leaders have partnered to establish two world-class bike trails in Ladiga and Coldwater, while continuing to preserve the natural beauty and historical districts of the Northeast Alabama Region.

The word is out, and people are coming from across the southeast and United States to find adventure in Calhoun County. Whether interested in arts, outdoor activity like kayaking or biking, retail, dining and shopping or just looking for event facilities, Calhoun County has it all and more. With access to train, major highways, a greyhound station and bike trails, it’s a short and easy trip from everywhere.

Calhoun County is an escape into nature with the mountains, rocks, trails and streams, but it also has the convenience with growing metropolitan municipalities, rich with culture, restaurants, activities and attractions. So, get out and go; hit the trails that highlight the natural grandeur and step back in time to visit our area historic sites. The Southern Hospitality here is unmatched, and the setting seems ideal.

Top Desserts for the Sweet Tooth

The Holidays are here, so before the New Year's Resolutions, stop counting calories and enjoy!

Mad Hatter Cupcake Shop
30 Coffee Street, Jacksonville, AL 36265
Just following their Facebook page makes your mouth water. With delectable flavors, like their Rocky Cocky, Snickerdoodle, and this time of year's Buddy the Elf, there are too many choices. Each Tuesday through Saturday, the flavors rotate to offer more to share! Stop by their shop in Jacksonville, and we guarantee that you'll leave with more than one cupcake. They taste as good as they look.


Artisanal Baked Goods
1702 Quintard Avenue, Anniston, AL 36201
After following them on Instagram, you'll stop by every chance you get. They've got delicious cookies, mouthwatering danishes, delish cinnamon rolls and scones, scrumptious cheesecake and finger-licking macarons. Did I mention cookies? The Peanut Butter and Ginger cookies are to die for! Check out there shop next to Mata's at 1702 Quintard Avenue, in Anniston.

Smallcakes Cupcakery 
100 Ali Way, Oxford, AL 36203
Their shop is adorable, located in the shopping center behind Logan's, across from the Quintard Mall. They are always crafting up daring flavors, like "Holiday Spice Cake," pecan pie, Kentucky Bourbon, etc. They also make cookie sandwiches and icing shots with extra icing. You can't go wrong with extra icing, especially theirs. Stop by after your trip to the mall. Walking the mall equals exercising, anyway.

Java Jolt Coffeehouse
5 Public Square, Jacksonville, AL 36265
Their baker always has new yummy recipes up her sleeves, and the desserts are no exception. Their morning muffins are delicious enough to be a dessert, especially the Cappuccino Chocolate with its brown sugar crystallized topping. Everyone raves about their Coconut Cake, their peanut butter brownies, and pretty much anything they choose to dish out, including their barista's drinks. Drop by this charming shop, and you won't regret it!

Check out our list of many other great shops and restaurants at http://www.visitcalhouncounty.com/where_to_eat. 

Experience Anniston, Alabama

Calhoun County is filled with historic spots, including homes, battle grounds, stores and more.
Anniston's history began after the Civil War, when the Tyler and Noble families designed a key industrial element to the New South in 1872. The town grew surrounding the Woodstock Iron Company and cotton mill.
Originally a private company town, Anniston Opened to a broader public in 1883, attracting more commercial and industrial activity. Large magnificent Victorian homes like those on Tyler Hill, some of which still stand, were built. These beautiful homes now include the Parker House Bed and Breakfast, with it's Gothic-like exterior of red brick, Bavarian artisan interior woodworking, French Glass, and cathedral like stained glass.
In 1882, a native sandstone Gothic Structure, executing the cedar, brass and stone architectural theme of Solomon's Temple, formed Grace Episcopal Church.
Between 1888 and 1891, native stone, Italian wood and beautiful lancet stained glass constructed Parker Memorial Baptist Church.
One of the most popular sites is St. Michael and All Angels. This church was built in 1888, with Romanesque style architecture, featuring hand-carved stonework, a 95 foot bell tower, memorial windows, an Italian marble altar and hand-carved interior trusses.
In 1891, the town's only Jewish synagogue was dedicated, Temple Beth El, with its arched transom doorways and high gable roof.
Many Downtown buildings, also date back to the late 1800s, including the Peerless Saloon with its history from the St. Louis World's Fair.
May 14, 1961, the Freedom Riders attack occurred in Downtown Anniston, and now, at the former Greyhound Bus Station at 1031 Gurnee Ave., a painted mural and panels recap the days events and happenings with photographs and witness accounts. There is also a mural for the "Other Bus" the Trailways Bus that followed, painted on the corner of 9th and Noble.
A Freedom Riders Park is being developed along Hwy 202, the former Atlanta-Birmingham Hwy, where the Bus Burning occurred.
Anniston is also home to the Anniston Museum of Natural History, the Berman Museum of World History, as well as the former Fort McClellan.

Anniston is rich in historical sites. Visit www.VisitCalhounCounty.com for more information.

Oxford Performing Arts Center

This 1,130 seat performance center is located in historic Downtown Oxford, surrounded by quaint boutique shops, southern dining and overflowing with history. The building is comprised of spaces that were once the jail, school, city hall and more. The new 10.4 million dollar auditorium has state of the art lighting, sound, stage, orchestra pit, dressing rooms and more!
This great venue for Calhoun County hosts concerts and performance year round. Some of the upcoming events include:

An Evening in December

Friday, December 12, 7:00 P.M.

Appalachian Christmas

Monday, December 15, 8:00 P.M.

Voices of Christmas

Saturday, December 20, 7:00 P.M.

Shenandoah

Saturday, January 31, 2015

A Rockin' Valentine's Tribute to the King 

Friday, February 13, 2015

Buddy the Musical

Saturday, February 28, 2015

The Vienna Boys Choir 

Thursday, March 12, 2015 

Rhonda Vincent & The Rage 

Saturday, April 18, 2015 

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.oxfordpac.org. 

Prime Dining

If you are ever in need of a good burger during the week, do I have a spot in Anniston for you?
Located on South Quintard in Anniston, Prime Dining and Bar dishes out southern specialties and mouthwatering sandwiches and burgers.
The setting is modern, like something you would see in a larger metropolitan environment. Everyone is dressed in casual attire, providing a comfortable ambiance. The eye-catching art displayed on the walls make for great conversation pieces, and the friendly staff accommodates all visitors with a familiar and warm southern hospitality.
The specialties they serve are delectable concoctions from their very skilled staff of chefs.
A personal favorite is the Fried Green Tomato Burger, topped Remoulade Sauce, a lightly battered and fried tomato, bacon and cheese.
They are open Monday through Tuesday, 11:00 A.M. until 3:00 P.M., Wednesday and Thursday, 11:00 A.M. until 8:30 P.M. and Fridays, 11:00 A.M. until 9:30 P.M.
Go visit Andrea and the great folks at Prime for a one of a kind dining experience.
For more information, call 256-770-7322 or visit www.facebook.com/pages/Prime-Dining-Bar.

Climb Every Mountain... Including Cheaha

Cheaha State Park 

The great thing about Northeast Alabama is there is a natural escape in every city, and we're home to the highest point in Alabama. Cheaha rises 2,407 feet above sea level and is home to hiking and biking trails, swimming and fishing holes, campgrounds, cabins, a hotel, a restaurant, breathtaking views and museums.
Some of my favorite spots include the Pulpit Rock trail, The Chinnabee Silent Trail to Devil's Den, and the famous Bald Rock.
October and November are ideal times to explore this natural playground, with the crisp fall air, beautiful changing leaves and trails to explore. The summer is perfect for swimming, especially with the numerous waterfalls in and around the Talladega National Forest.
The location and landscape are perfect for family and senior portraits too, the autumn backdrop being ideal for Christmas cards.
For more information, visit www.alapark.com/cheaharesort/.

Chinnabee Silent Trail to Devil's Den

Visit App

If you want to know what's going on in and around Calhoun County, the Visit App gives you all the information, right at your finger tips. Available in the Google Play and Apple i-Tunes store, just search Visit Calhoun County.
Once you download the app for FREE, you can browse restaurants by category, hotels and accommodations, and area attractions. The cool thing about the app is that it shows you these locations based on how close they are to you.
The most popular part of the App is our Event Calendar, allowing you to browse by week. There is always something to do in and around Calhoun County.
The App also has interesting facts about our area and links to Twitter and Facebook, so you can stay up to date on what's happening in and around our area.
Let us help you remember all these great natural attractions and give you guidance for how to get there.
For questions, please call 256-237-3536.
www.visitcalhouncounty.com 

"It's the most Wonderful Time of the Year!"

The holidays are just around the corner. Calhoun County has many great holiday events for the whole family.

• November 7 through 9, the Anniston Museum starts the shopping season with their Winter Market Weekend, featuring artisans and craftsman with their works for sale. 
• The Rabbit Hutch Gift Shop kicks off the holidays with their 33rd Holiday Open House on November 9, from 1-5 P.M. They'll have refreshments, samples, prizes and more, so check out what they have in store. 
• November 21, the Oxford Performing Arts Center and TV24 present "Celebrate Christmas," with The Diamonds and other local artists from Northeast Alabama showcasing their talents with holiday favorites. The Show starts at 7:00 P.M.. Call 256-241-3322. 
• The Anniston Museum presents the Fa La La La Follies puppet show on November 28. This show is for all ages and is free with Museum Admission. 
• Join the City of Jacksonville for their Annual Christmas Parade on December 2nd. The parade route follows Highway 21 North from Pelham Plaza to JSU. 
  
• The City of Oxford hosts their annual Christmas parade on December 4, along Main Street in Oxford. The Parade will begin at 6 P.M. 
• C.A.S.T. (Community Actors Studio Theatre) proudly presents Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol, December 4-14. 
• "FRA-GEE-LAY! That must be Italian!" The CharActors of Gadsden present A Christmas Story, December 5th through the 14th. 
• The City of Weaver hosts their Annual Christmas Parade and Christmas in the Park on December 6th in Elwell Park, beginning at 10:30 A.M. 
• The Alabama Ballet performs the annual Nutcracker, presented by the Knox Concert Series and Wells Fargo Bank on December 7 at the Anniston Performing Arts Center beginning at 2 P.M. 
  
• The Annual Anniston Christmas Parade is scheduled for December 8 on Downtown Anniston's Noble Street. 
• The Oxford Performing Arts Center hosts the Nelons and the LeFevre Quartet for An Evening in December on December 12. Tickets range from $10-15 for this festive performance. 
• December 13, "Dash through the Springs" at Shocco Springs Annual 5K. 
• The Oxford Performing Arts Center presents Mark O'Conner's "Appalachian Christmas" on December 15, beginning at 8 P.M. With a blend of carols, bluegrass and other traditional music, this event proves to be a musical feast. 
• Last, but not least, the Oxford Performing Arts Center hosts the Voices of the South for Voices of Christmas, on December 20, beginning at 7:00 P.M. 

There is something for the whole family in Calhoun County. It's a natural attraction. 

"Classic" Southern Food

Classic on Noble is a quintessentially southern restaurant, dishing out signature southern staples like Shrimp and Grits, Chicken Salad, and a dreamlike Sunday Brunch. Owners Cathy and David Mashburn Classic history began long before opening their doors on Noble Street, catering as a hobby at first and with a quaint storefront in Jacksonville. After discovering a hidden gem in the beautiful 1894 Levy and Clark Building, Classic on Noble has become prominent leader in downtown Anniston and Calhoun County. 

Featured in Southern Living and Alabama’s 100 Dishes to Eat Before You Die, Classic has hosted dignitaries and visitors from all over the world. With their classic dining and warm atmosphere, those who come to Classic are blown away by the exceptional service and delectable food.

Favorites include the Noble Salad, topped with berries, pecans and bleu cheese. Their Maryland Crab Cakes served with cous-cous are another favorite of residents and visitors alike. Their Dill Chicken Salad is mouthwatering, served with a side of fresh fruit.

For Sunday Brunch, you must call for reservations because this is a local favorite and must. They have an omelet station, French toast,

every type of salad from Pasta salad to fruits and seafood salad, to carving stations with beef, turkey or ham, veggies and desserts that seem to go for miles.

Recently, the Mashburns have also opened Classic Too, casual dining also located on Noble across from Classic, and Classic at Buckhorn, located in Weaver. David has also taken on preparing the food for Anniston Country Club. 

For more information on this must on your itinerary, visit www.classiconnoble.com. 

This is Talladega!

Some people know Talladega thanks to Will Ferrell's Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby, but those who follow NASCAR know Talladega Superspeedway as the fastest track. In the 60s, people wanted a track longer and faster than Daytona, and Talladega holds the record for the fastest recorded time by a NASCAR stock car in a closed oval course. Can you imagine going 216 miles per hour?
Each Spring and Fall, attendees from all over flock to Talladega to see racing at its best. This track normally delivers. Many minor glitches lead to multiple car pileups, and there is usually a close finish. Congratulations to Brad Keselowski, winner of the GEICO 500! 
People come for the races, but Talladega is a destination year-round! They have the Dale Jarrett Racing Adventure, great for any adrenaline junkie who wants to see how fast they can go on this 2.66 mile track. This thrill can reach speeds of 180 miles per hour in cars with the same safety features of the cars the professional drivers race.
Adjacent to the track is also the International Motorsports Hall of Fame. Since 1983, this museum is home to some of the most historical artifacts in motorsports.
In 2015, 2 miles from the track, the Civilian Marksmanship Program will also open their 500 acre one of a kind marksmanship park. This park will feature a 600 yard rifle range, 50 yard pistol range, sporting clays and more!
Our region is a natural attraction with too many choices for just one trip!

Knox Concert Series

Since 1946, Knox Concert Series has hosted great acts and performers. From Vince Gill and Amy Grant, to Marvin Hamlisch, Chicago and more, Knox is recognized as one of Alabama’s premiere presenting organizations. This annual concert series brings world renowned artists to the Anniston Performs Arts Center Stage between September and April. Other previous performers include: Celtic Woman, Michael McDonald, and Sara Evans! This season’s line-up boasts, Natalie Cole, Michael Bolton, and the Rain-A Tribute to the Beatles.

The Knox Series gets its name from Carrie McClure Know, who after studying abroad and at Harvard, moved back home. With a small group of fellow Anniston musicians, they organized the Anniston Coral Club, which became the Anniston Music Club. After Carrie died suddenly, the club was renamed the Knox Music Club. The first concert of the series was a sellout and held at the Anniston High School Auditorium. Since then, the series has continued to bring world renowned acts to the Model City. In the 70s, the series was incorporated with a board of directors.

For more information, visit www.knoxconcertseries.org.

The Chief Ladiga Trail

"It is by riding a bicycle that you learn the contours of a country best, since you have to sweat up the hills and coast down them. Thus you remember them as they actually are, while in a motor car only a high hill impresses you, and you have no such accurate remembrance of country you have driven through as you gain by riding a bicycle." ~ Ernest Hemingway

This paved bicycle and recreational trail connects the Calhoun County municipalities of Anniston, Weaver, Jacksonville, and Piedmont. The Chief Ladiga Trail currently runs 32.5 miles from the Alabama/Georgia line into the City of Weaver. The City of Anniston recently acquired more land for the trails extension into downtown Anniston. As Alabama’s first Rails to Trails project, this paved recreational trail follows the former Seaboard/CSX Railroad and connects to Georgia’s 63 mile Silver Comet Trail, making Ladiga part of the longest paved rail trail in the U.S. This recreational opportunity can be enjoyed by walkers, bikers, skaters, strollers and more.

The trail is a perfect get-a-way and outdoor activity for the whole family. With parks, like Elwell and Germania Springs, along the way and picnic areas, the trail is a great adventure for both kids and adults. Beautiful sights like area forests shade sections of the trail and run alongside area creeks and streams for a relaxing setting. From the mountains to the farmlands, these scenes provide a picturesque backdrop for a most enjoyable ride. This trail is perfect to be enjoyed year-round, with Alabama’s mild winter temperatures and idyllic autumn and spring temps. During the summer, it gets warm, but each morning is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the ride.

Always be sure to be aware of the other riders, runners and crossing traffic. The mostly flat trail, with the occasional gradual incline or downhill, is a great place for kids to practice riding a bike, but it’s also great for the avid cyclist to get some miles.

For more information, visit www.chiefladigatrail.com.

Farm to Table: Garfrerick's Cafe

 Garfrerick’s started on the farm in Munford, with Dave taking produce to restaurants in Birmingham. He loved what they did with the produce, and he too could cook. So, Dave Garfrerick started Garfrerick’s Café in Oxford.

Dave wanted his customers to enjoy good food and be connected to it, not overly processed, see the pictures on the wall, where it comes from, and watch it cook. Dave wanted customers to know this food is truly a part of their community.

During the summer month’s Garfrerick’s dishes out their signature Tomato Salad, but they also have fresh corn, peas, and make their marinades and sauces.

About one mile from the interstate, nestled behind Red Lobster, Garfrerick’s Café and its modern but welcoming atmosphere, serve Scallops with fresh cream corn and sugar snap peas, Halibut with coconut Rice and Grilled Pineapple, Rainbow Trout with Lime Avocado Sauce, Shrimp and Grits and the favorite Pecan Encrusted Grouper. Known for their Sunday Vegetable Buffet, Garfrerick’s accommodates vegetarians and those needing gluten free.

Garfrerick’s also has a full bar with signature cocktails like their Old Fashioned Apple Pie and the I Love Lucy. Visitors come from all around, with many driving from Birmingham and Atlanta to enjoy. They have a banquet room and small meeting room available for events, and they’ve catered both large and small events off premise.

In 2014, the readers of Alabama magazine, a statewide lifestyle magazine, voted Garfrerick's "Best of Bama: Cafe," and local audiences voted Garfrerick’s “Best Fine Dining” in The Anniston Star 2014 Readers’ Choice Awards. The Café is also rated in the top 10% of restaurants in the Delta Sky Rewards Program.

For more information, visit www.garfrerickscafe.com. 

Coldwater Mountain Bike Trail

“Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference.” – Robert Frost

Turning off 202 onto Coldwater Road, it is evident there is a climb ahead. The entrance to the original trail head has an immediate incline. Cyclists know instantly, they’re in for a treat. The gravel parking lot at the top is often full of tags from across the U.S., Wyoming, Mississippi, New York and Tennessee, just to name a few. This time of year is a great time to explore Coldwater, with the cooler temperatures, the fall colors and changing leaves, tree shades and refreshing breezes. The trail map, constantly evolving and growing marks the start. The smooth Baby Bear loop is perfect for the whole family with its downhill start and sidewinding ending. You can rest when you get back to the top. The Mama and Papa Bear loops are longer, with their very quick downhill to a consistent finishing climb. The Bomb Dog is more advanced with river rocks, roots, moguls, tricky switchback turns, and challenging gradual climbs. This trail system continues to grow with gravity trails and new additions including the Bunny, the Tortoise, the Hare and Chilhowee Trails. Runners and hikers are welcome to explore these trails, but it is suggested with these single tracks that they take the course backwards, aware of other oncoming traffic.

Coldwater is a beautiful escape into the 4000 acres of Alabama Land Trust property, wooded, shaded and picturesque. The creek runs along the trail and can often be heard, especially after a big rain. The trails are well maintained, furnished with signageand perfect with rideable grade and fun features. Coldwater is also convenient with its location just outside of downtown Anniston.

Plan a weekend! Stay and shop in Downtown Anniston, with Wig's Wheels conveniently located nearby. Then, explore the other trails in our area, including Coleman Lake, Henry Farm and Cheaha Mountain. 

www.visitcalhouncounty.com 

Coldwater Mountain Bike Trail 

White Oak

Since 2004, White Oak Vineyards has predominately grown types of muscadines, from Nobles, Ison, Carlos to Magnolia and Regal. The farm totals 60 acres, and also grows bunch grapes like Chambourcin, Chardonel, Norton, Seyval Blanc and more. Randal Wilson, Farm Owner, planter and wine bottler, grows Asian persimmons, peaches, blackberries, raspberries, tomatoes and more. Now, he's focusing on new grapes.

White Oak is partnering with UC Davis with Pierce Disease Resistant wine grapes, with 6 acres of Sauvignon Blanc wine grapes.

White Oak is currently the only winery in Alabama that produces a sparkling wine, with the Charmet method of fermentation, available at Alabama Publix. Now, White Oaks' distributor, United Johnson Brothers of Alabama, LLC, has secured distribution with Walmarts in Alabama.

White Oak has won Gold, Silver and Bronze with their dry red, whites, sparkling wines, and the very first batch of champagne. Currently, one pressure vessel is holding 160 cases of bottling champagne.

White Oak's Winery is nestled at the foot of the farm's mountain, surrounded by the picturesque Choccolocco Valley and mountain sides, home to breathtaking sunsets and awe-inspiring sunrises. It's no wonder Randal's granddaughter wants to move to the farm.

Bird-netting, draped by machinery, 2-3 acres per hour, protects the grapes and muscadines from area wildlife, deer, birds and more, native to our region.

White Oak gathers 4-5 tons of muscadines per acre and 3-4 tons of grapes per acre.

The Southern Oak Wines tasting room is open on Fridays from 1-6 P.M. and Saturdays from 10 A.M. to 6 P.M. Plan a visit to taste the wines and muscadines, and see a part of Calhoun County's "Natural Attraction." Check in the spring for their native azalea and rhododendron collection, rivaling Callaway Gardens, with 5-15 gallon plants available for sale.

For more information and virtual tours, visit www.southernoakwines.com. 

Welcome to Calhoun County, Alabama!

Calhoun County boasts of an unbelievable selection of outdoor recreational opportunities. From kayaking and fishing to mountain biking and hiking, Calhoun County is a haven for outdoor enthusiast!

Located approximately 45 minutes from Birmingham and 90 minutes from Atlanta, the county-which includes the cities of Anniston, Oxford, Jacksonville, Hobson City, Piedmont, Ohatchee and Weaver-has the hybrid of relaxation and excitement to make it the place of your dreams.
Discover Calhoun County, Alabama as not only a place to visit, do business, and attend college, but also as a region of progressive communities with strong economies that still retain their small town Southern charm and friendliness. Such appeal makes Calhoun County, Alabama a place one enjoys calling home.
At Visit Calhoun County, the Calhoun County Chamber of Commerce is here to assist you with all of your needs. Not sure where to stay, eat or shop? We are your #1 source of information! Regardless of whether or not you’re planning on visiting for a day or a week, Visit Calhoun County is your one-stop information shop on all things Calhoun County.

Anniston
In 1899, the county seat of Calhoun County moved from Jacksonville to Anniston. More than 100 years later, the community is a bustling center of industry and commerce with more than 24,000 residents. Over the years, city officials and local citizens have done everything possible not only to retain the environmental beauty of the area, while allowing it to thrive economically, but also to preserve its history. The Spirit of Anniston Main Street Program, Inc., a nonprofit organization started in 1993, spearheaded the restoration and revitalization of historic downtown Anniston, with a strong focus on the city's main thoroughfare, Noble Street.
Historical sites include the Freedom Riders Murals at 1031 Gurnee Avenue and the intersection of 9th and Noble Street. Anniston is also home to the Anniston Museum of Natural History and the Berman Museum of World History.

Oxford
Oxford is known as one of Calhoun County's fastest growing residential and commercial cities. It stretches across the county line into neighboring Talladega County. This unique location allows Oxford to have excellent access to the resources in both counties.
Oxford officials have adopted a progressive attitude, implementing a number of city improvements to meet the demands of a growing population, including the construction of a new City Hall and public library. The investment in Oxford's facilities and amenities is part of an ongoing effort to be recognized as "The Crossroads and Retail Capital of Calhoun County," as well as a safe and comfortable place to raise a family. Sites include the Oxford Civic Center and sport complex at Oxford Lake and the new 10.4 million dollar Oxford Performing Arts Center, housing a 1,130 seat auditorium.

Jacksonville 

Because of their close proximity, the cities of Jacksonville, Piedmont, & Weaver share a location along the Chief Ladiga Trail. The trail runs west from the Alabama-Georgia border into Piedmont and then south through Jacksonville and Weaver, before ending in Anniston. It is the state's first extended rails-to-trails project and has provided locals with an excellent family-friendly recreational venue, complete with areas for hiking, mountain biking, and more.
In 1834, the town built on land, once Creek Territory, was named Jacksonville for Andrew Jackson.
Also in 1834, Jacksonville began its storied history in education when the town reserved a one-acre square for a schoolhouse. Over the years, the school developed from the Jacksonville Academy into Jacksonville State Teachers College. Today, known as Jacksonville State University, it is one of Alabama's most prestigious institutes of higher education.
Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachians, historic Jacksonville truly lives up to its nickname - the Gem of the Hills with its picturesque neighborhoods, the charm of its public square, it beckons to many. Come for a visit, and prepare to make yourself at home!

Piedmont
In 1888, this area was named Piedmont—meaning 'Foot of the Mountains,’ which was pleasing to the people who enjoyed being nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountain range surrounded

with the scenic beauty of mountains and streams. The City of Piedmont has prime real estate as well as the infrastructure necessary for industrial and commercial growth. This area is home to the Chief Ladiga Trail and Terrapin Creek, perfect for any outdoor adventurer, with the Pinhoti Trail not very far away.

Weaver
Weaver is a very good example of small town life at its best. The City of Weaver is a growing community, with The Chief Ladiga Trail running through the city alongside Elwell Park and on throughout the county, north, towards Jacksonville. There is an Easter Egg Hunt in the spring, a Christmas Parade in December, and the annual Weaver Station Heritage Day Celebration held in the Fall. Come to Weaver and see for yourself that there is a jewel lying at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, and you too will fall in love with the little town that’s a big city at heart.

Hobson City
Fewer than 1,000 people inhabit this small historic town, but its name is larger than life. Hobson City, located directly across from Oxford, was incorporated in 1899 by a small neighborhood of black

citizens when the new mayor of Oxford gerrymandered the residents' homes out of the larger city. The displaced citizens refused to leave the area and simply created a city of their own.

Ohatchee
Ohatchee is located in the northwest corner of Calhoun County and is positioned on the Coosa River. The 2000 census showed that the town had a population of 1,215. It is located along Highway 77, a thoroughfare connecting Talladega, Lincoln, and I-20 to the south with Gadsden and I-59 to the north. Several historic sites are located in the vicinity of Ohatchee including the site of the former Fort Strother at which Gen. Andrew Jackson was headquartered during part of the Creek Indian Wars in the early 1800's and Janney Furnace, which was a pig iron furnace built during the Civil War. Ohatchee's business environment includes fishing and recreational businesses, industrial companies, forestry related businesses, and a small retail and service district.