Gainesville Historic District facts for kids
Gainesville Historic District
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![]() Aduston Hall, built from 1844–46.
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Location | Roughly bounded by North Carolina, Church and School and Lafayette Sts., end of town grid, and Webster St., Gainesville, Alabama |
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Area | 76 acres (31 ha) |
Architectural style | Federal, Greek Revival, early Victorian |
MPS | Gainesville MRA |
NRHP reference No. | 85002925 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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Added to NRHP | October 3, 1985 |
The Gainesville Historic District is a special area in Gainesville, Alabama, Alabama, United States. It's like a preserved neighborhood where many old buildings and places tell stories from the past. This district was officially recognized for its history on March 25, 1976, and again on October 3, 1985. It covers about 76 acres and includes 24 buildings that are important to the area's history.
Exploring Gainesville's History
Gainesville is located on the south side of the Tombigbee River in southwestern Alabama. Long ago, before trains were common, Gainesville was a very busy and important inland port. This means it was a major trading center where goods were moved by boats along the river. The town was at its busiest and most important before the American Civil War.
What Makes the District Special?
The Gainesville Historic District is one of two historic areas in the town. The other is called the Main–Yankee Street Historic District. This historic district is surrounded by North Carolina, Church, School, Lafayette, and Webster streets. McKee Street, which is now part of Alabama State Route 39, runs right through the middle of it.
As you explore the district, you'll see many different styles of old buildings. Some are built in the Federal style, which was popular in the early days of the United States. Others show Greek Revival architecture, which looks like ancient Greek temples. You might also spot buildings in the Queen Anne style or other Victorian styles, which were popular during the time of Queen Victoria.
One important building in the district is Aduston Hall. It's a historic property owned by the Sumter County Historical Society. They use it as a welcome center, where visitors can learn more about the district and its rich history.