Northport is a city in Tuscaloosa County, Alabama, United States. It is located across the Black Warrior River from Tuscaloosa, and was founded in 1833. Northport was incorporated as a town on January 1, 1902. The city contains the smaller Locust Fork of the Black Warrior River. As of the 2010 census, the population of Northport was 23,330, up from 19,372 in 2000. The city is primarily a suburb of the nearby metropolitan city of Tuscaloosa and is included in the Tuscaloosa Metropolitan Statistical Area.
The area of Northport was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Choctaw and Creek until the early 19th century when settlers began arriving. The city was named for the Northport Wharf, a project opened by William Rufus King in 1834. The project was constructed in order to move goods more easily across the river. The town grew rapidly between the late 19th century and early 20th century. The early economy was mainly based on coal and iron ore production and shipping. The town also developed a reputation as a major center of education in the area.
The city was heavily damaged during the Civil War due to its location near major transportation routes. Following the war, the economy shifted to timber and other natural resources. Northport also saw an increase in tourism on the Black Warrior River in the late 19th century. The development of mines and highways continued to increase the city’s population and economy throughout the 20th century. Today, Northport is a rapidly growing suburb of Tuscaloosa and is home to University of Alabama’s Northport campus.
1. Northport was founded in 1873.
2. In 2010, Northport was listed as one of the 100 Best Communities for Young People by America’s Promise Alliance.
3. There are fourteen historic sites throughout Northport, ranging from buildings like the Graham-Kendrick House, a two-story home built in 1904 that gave Billy Graham his start as a Baptist preacher, to the Northport Music In The Park program, which has been running for nearly two decades.
4. Northport was the site of the first ice cream parlor in the state of Alabama.
5. In 2011, Northport was named one of the Top 12 Small Towns in the South by Southern Living magazine.
6. The City of Northport is home to the Paul E. Bryant Museum which is an aggregate room of championships and memorabilia collected by former University of Alabama football coach Paul “Bear” Bryant.
7. Northport is known for great food – especially BBQ, pizza, and soul food. There are many acclaimed restaurants, such as Bandit’s BBQ, and several options for delicious ethnic food like the Mexican hotspot Don Juan’s.
8. Northport is home to several beautiful parks, including Kentuck Park and Battlefield Park.
9. The downtown area of Northport is home to a thriving art community with several galleries and museums.
10. Northport was home to blues singer Robert Johnson, who learned to play in the city when he was a teenager.
Northport, Alabama is a city in Tuscaloosa County known for its small-town atmosphere and local attractions. The city is home to many restaurants, festivals and shops. It is also famous for its lake-side city park, Kentuck Park, which offers a public boat launch, kayak rentals, fishing piers, picnic pavilions and much more. Northport is also home to the University of Alabama’s Northport campus, making it the perfect location for students to call home!
Northport is a small city located in Tuscaloosa County, Alabama. It is a quaint town with plenty of features to explore and enjoy. From outdoor activities to historic attractions, Northport has something for everyone. Visitors can explore the Southern charm of the downtown area with unique shopping, local culinary treats, and a variety of entertainment options. Outdoor enthusiasts may enjoy fishing, kayaking, swimming, and hiking in the nearby William B. Bankhead National Forest. History buffs will appreciate visiting the historic Carriage House, built in the early 1900s. Each year the city hosts an annual Artfest downtown, held in the Riverwalk Park with food, live entertainment, and local art. Northport is also home to the Kentuck Arts Center, which features the history and culture of the region.
5 Mar, 2024
5 Mar, 2024
5 Mar, 2024