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| JUST UNDER AN HOUR AWAY - SMALL TOWN DOWNTOWN LIVING | | 5/31/2007 | | | May 2007 Midsouth Magazine
NEW ALBANY, MISSISSIPPI
With a broad tradition of Southern culture from William Faulkner to Coca-Cola, the historic downtown center of New Albany illustrates the distinctive moniker of the "Fair and Friendly City." Located in the Mississippi Hills region, the Union County seat presents its history with warmth and pride.
In 1840, the town of New Albany was created near the banks of the Tallahatchie River and the confluence of Chickasaw Indian trade trails. The railroad industry provided means for further growth. Today, transportation remains a focus for New Albany with the relization o fthe Toyota manufacturing plant to be located only a few miles south of the town.
Bankhead Street is the heart of the business and shopping district. Believe it or not, parking in the middle of the street downtown New Albany is encouraged! Intimate, one-of-a-kind shops featuring selections of jewelry, antiques, pottery, and children’s, women’s and men’s clothing provide a pleasant opportunity to meet-and-greet both proprietor and patron. Just drop in to Suagaree’s Bakery! Who can resist the delightful name and larger-than-life birthday cake in the shop window? You will be captive to the aroma of sugar and spice wafting from the front door.
Businessm government, history and entertainment are linked together in downtown New Albany. The buildings of the Union County Courthouse, City Hall, and the Magnolia Civic Center are historical focal points. A few blocks away is the Union County Heritage Museum, where artifacts and exhibits offer discoveries about the diversities of this region such as the Ingomar Mound Complex, the influence of the Chickasaw nation or the life and writings of the native son William Faulkner.
Events and activities thrive in downtown New Albany, but the largest attraction is the Tallahatchie Riverfest, held annually in September. The two-day event is teeming with arts and crafts and varieties of food vendors. Cooper Park provides an enchanting, storytelling venue for gollywhoppers and folk tales. The restored Coca-Cola mural bordering the park completes the nosralgic atmosphere of New Albany.
The New Albany Downtown Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visit New Albany and experience the character and charisma of "A Fair and Friendly City!" | | | | « Go Back | | |
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