Img 9582 Alabama, Alabamahistory, Bamabuzz, Rainsville, Rainsvilleal — A memorial dedicated to the victims of the 2011 tornado. (Angel Spence / The Bama Buzz)

Tucked away in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Rainsville is located in Northeast Alabama along Highway 35 and it’s easy to miss if you’re not careful.

Rainsville is a tight-knit community rooted in values and natural beauty. According to the most recent census, the town’s population is 5,505, growing in every census since 1990.

It’s is a city that blends small-town southern charm and quiet resilience.

History of Rainsville

Img 9603 Scaled E1750694993497 Alabama, Alabamahistory, Bamabuzz, Rainsville, Rainsvilleal — Rainsville City Hall (Angel Spence / The Bama Buzz)

Originally known as Parker Town, Rainsville began attracting people to its town in the late 1800s. Some of the first families who settled in Parker Town carved homesteads from woodlands.

Will Rains created the first store that became a focal point for the town. After more businesses started to open, the town was renamed in October 1956.

Today, agriculture still plays a significant role in the community but Rainsville has expanded to include local businesses, churches and maintains a strong focus on a simple, quiet family life.

Tested by nature, healed by community

One of the most devastating moments that has happened in the town came on April 27, 2011. Rainsville was struck by four EF5 tornadoes.

Many homes, businesses and facilities were completely destroyed. Plainview High School sustained $10 to $15 million in damage to the main building, athletic fields, gyms and coliseum.

25 lives were lost in Rainsville, but the town came together to support each other. Volunteer groups from local schools, the American Red Cross and churches provided aid for those who lost their homes and family.

Today, the community is rebuilt and the Rainsville Tornado Memorial is located at the Dekalb County Coliseum, honoring the lives lost.

A place to call home

Img 9585 Alabama, Alabamahistory, Bamabuzz, Rainsville, Rainsvilleal — DeKalb County Coliseum in Rainsville (Angel Spence / The Bama Buzz)

Although Rainsville is modest in size, it’s continuing to grow.

New businesses and civic improvements are helping shape the city into a place where young families can thrive while still honoring its traditional values.

Rainsville is a town that focuses on family, faith and community. For locals, it’s not just how where they live, it’s a part of who they are.

If you’re looking for fun things to do around Rainsville, here are a few recommendations: