Gadsden

Gadsden is a county seat in northeastern Alabama located along the banks of the Coosa River. The settlement spreads across gentle hills with residential neighborhoods, commercial streets and a historic downtown core near the water.

The settlement emerged in 1825 as Double Springs with a stagecoach station and received its current name in 1867 at official incorporation. The riverside location supported the growth of trade and small industry during the 19th century.

The name honors Colonel James Gadsden, a diplomat from South Carolina, while the town today serves as a regional commercial hub. Visitors find red-brick historic buildings along the downtown area that recall the early industrial past.

The town sits in northeastern Alabama about an hour and a half by car from Birmingham with direct access via major highways. Visitors find public parking in the downtown area and several starting points for walks along the river.

Noccalula Falls Park contains a waterfall about 90 feet high that drops over a rocky ledge into a forested gorge. The name comes from a local Cherokee legend about a young woman who, according to the story, jumped from this spot.

Location: Etowah County

Inception: February 18, 1867

Elevation above the sea: 165 m

Website: http://cityofgadsden.com

GPS coordinates: 34.01015,-86.01036

Latest update: December 13, 2025 15:53