Cities in Hale County, AL
Hale County, located in west-central Alabama, was established in 1867 and named after Confederate officer Stephen F. Hale. The county is part of Alabama’s Black Belt region, which is historically known for its rich, fertile soil and its significance in the cotton plantation economy. During the Civil Rights Movement, Hale County, like much of the Black Belt, was a battleground for voter registration and equal rights. Today, the county is a blend of its agricultural roots and small-town charm, with a focus on farming, forestry, and outdoor recreation along the Black Warrior River.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 14,785 (2020 Census)
- County Seat: Greensboro
- Number of Cities and Towns: 4 (Greensboro, Moundville, Newbern, Akron)
List of Cities and Towns in Hale County, AL
Greensboro
City Facts
- Area: 2.4 square miles
- Population: 2,365 (2020 Census)
- Latitude: 32.7043° N
- Longitude: 87.5950° W
City Overview
Greensboro, the county seat of Hale County, is located in the heart of Alabama’s Black Belt. Founded in 1823, it was originally named Troy before being renamed in honor of Revolutionary War General Nathanael Greene. Greensboro quickly became an important center for cotton production and trade during the antebellum period, with many grand antebellum homes still standing today. The town’s central location and its proximity to the Black Warrior River helped facilitate trade and the movement of goods, especially cotton. Like much of the South, Greensboro was deeply affected by the Civil War and Reconstruction, but it remained a key agricultural hub into the 20th century.
Major Landmarks and Schools
Greensboro is home to many historical landmarks, including Magnolia Grove, an antebellum mansion that is now a museum, and St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, one of the oldest churches in the area. The Greensboro Historic District features numerous 19th-century homes and buildings that offer a glimpse into the town’s rich past. In terms of education, Greensboro is served by the Hale County School System, which includes Greensboro Elementary School and Greensboro High School. These institutions continue to play a key role in shaping the community, which values both its heritage and its ongoing commitment to education.
Moundville
City Facts
- Area: 4.6 square miles
- Population: 1,572 (2020 Census)
- Latitude: 32.9979° N
- Longitude: 87.6330° W
City Overview
Moundville is located on the northern border of Hale County, along the Black Warrior River, and is best known for the nearby Moundville Archaeological Park, one of the most significant Native American sites in the southeastern United States. The area around Moundville was home to the Mississippian culture between the 11th and 16th centuries, and it served as a major ceremonial center during that time. The town of Moundville itself was incorporated in 1908 and developed primarily as an agricultural community. Its close proximity to Tuscaloosa, the home of the University of Alabama, allows it to maintain strong connections to the broader region.
Major Landmarks and Schools
The Moundville Archaeological Park is by far the most famous landmark in the area, drawing visitors from across the country to explore the ancient mounds and learn about the Mississippian culture at the park’s museum. Moundville also has its own local attractions, such as the Moundville Methodist Church and several parks along the river. The town is part of the Hale County School District, with students attending Moundville Elementary School. Additionally, high school students typically go to Hale County High School in nearby Greensboro. Moundville’s deep connection to both Native American history and modern agricultural practices makes it a unique and important part of Hale County.
Newbern
City Facts
- Area: 0.5 square miles
- Population: 133 (2020 Census)
- Latitude: 32.5918° N
- Longitude: 87.5325° W
City Overview
Newbern is a small town located in the eastern part of Hale County. Founded in 1854, it was named after the city of New Bern in North Carolina by settlers who migrated from that area. Newbern has historically been a quiet, rural community, with agriculture forming the backbone of its economy. Cotton farming dominated the region for much of the 19th and early 20th centuries, though in recent decades, the town has become known for its architectural heritage and community-focused initiatives. Newbern is perhaps best known today as the home of Auburn University’s Rural Studio, a program that brings architecture students to work on community-driven projects in rural Alabama.
Major Landmarks and Schools
The Rural Studio, an innovative architecture program, is the major landmark in Newbern, bringing visitors and students from around the world to work on sustainable building projects. Other landmarks include several antebellum homes and the Newbern Presbyterian Church, which reflect the town’s historical roots. Education in Newbern is provided by the Hale County School District, with most students attending nearby schools in Greensboro. Despite its small size, Newbern has gained recognition for its architectural projects and as a hub of creativity and community development in rural Alabama.
Akron
City Facts
- Area: 0.4 square miles
- Population: 309 (2020 Census)
- Latitude: 32.8751° N
- Longitude: 87.7408° W
City Overview
Akron is located in the northern part of Hale County, near the border with Tuscaloosa County. Founded in 1918, Akron grew as a small agricultural town, with its economy centered on cotton farming and timber production. Its strategic location near the Black Warrior River and the railroad helped it become a minor transportation hub in the early 20th century. Although the town has remained small, its history is closely tied to the agricultural development of the region. Akron continues to be a rural community, with farming and forestry remaining important industries for local residents.
Major Landmarks and Schools
Akron’s major landmarks include the Akron United Methodist Church and several historic buildings that reflect the town’s early 20th-century development. The town also has access to the Black Warrior River, which provides opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as fishing and boating. In terms of education, Akron is part of the Hale County School District, with children attending schools in Greensboro or Moundville. Akron’s small-town atmosphere and connection to the natural environment make it a peaceful community with a strong sense of history and local pride.