Alabama Real Estate & Relocation Guide

Centre, Alabama

Population: 3,216

Located in Cherokee County

Farming had been the main industry in Cherokee County, with cotton, corn, and more recently, soy beans as the main crops.

However, in 1961, a dam was completed near Leesburg, and waters of the Coosa, Chattooga and Little rivers was impounded to create Weiss Lake. A cottage industry has sprung up in tourism and fishing in the area. Weiss Lake proclaims itself the "Crappie Capital of the World" because of the size and amount of crappie caught in the lake.

Manufacturing is making a strong come-back in the County. There are now some thirty companies making a variety of products: socks, uniforms for the U.S. service branches, prosthesis underwear, and porcelain enamel frit, to cite a few.

With the growth of industry, the number of service businesses has increased to support the growing population, which is estimated to be 22,000.

Cherokee County is a lure for retirees, who are looking for good weather, good taxes, and easy access to the more metropolitan areas of Atlanta and Birmingham. We were recently listed as number 22 of the 67 counties in Alabama in attracting retirees.

Tourists annually choose to visit Cherokee County because of the diversity of recreation activities, history, and interesting wonders. The county offers water sports that include white water rafting, swimming, skiing, and fishing. History buffs can spend time exploring Civil War sites around the county or visiting the Cherokee County Historical Museum. Nature lovers can hike along Little River and experience one of the largest gorges east of the Rocky Mountains or explore an Indian Village on Shinbone Ridge with some rock formations rising 150 feet, upon which are breathtaking views of Alabama and Georgia.

CLIMATE:
Seasonal, yet moderate with mild winters and warm summers. Average annual rain fall 47". Prevailing winds 6-8 mph. Mean temperature: annual, 60 F; January 37 F and July 79 F.

COLLEGES:
Gadsden Technical School, Gadsden, AL
Gadsden State Community College, Gadsden, AL-2 yr. college
Gadsden State Community College, Cherokee County Campus
1975 East Bypass, Centre, AL
Jacksonville State University, Jacksonville, AL