Small town, big surprises: 4 fun facts about Athens

Have you ever heard of the small town of Athens? Not the one in Greece with the ancient ruins, but the one tucked away in North Alabama.

Sure, it borrowed its name from the famous city across the ocean—but Athens, Alabama, has its own set of fascinating stories to tell. From its rich history to its lively community spirit, this small town is full of surprises.

Athens is bursting with small-town vibes, postcard-worthy scenery, and more history than you’d expect. Keep reading to learn 4 fun facts about Athens.

Athens is one of the oldest cities in the state

Athens was founded in 1818, making it one of the oldest cities in the state of Alabama, being incorporated a year before the state. Athens is steeped in rich history and it shows in everything from the architecture to the community traditions.

The downtown area in Athens is well known for the old buildings including the limestone courthouse in the center of the square. Athens State University, the oldest institution of higher learning in Alabama, is located just outside of downtown Athens.

Limestone County is the fastest growing county in the state

Limestone County, with Athens at its center, is the fastest growing county in the state of Alabama. Over the past few years the county’s population has surged by almost 15%.

This rapid growth is happening because the area has a strong economy, is in a great location, and offers a good quality of life for families.

The Tennessee Valley Fiddlers Convention is held in Athens

The Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention is held on the campus of Athens State University just right down the road from downtown Athens. This is one of the most cherished traditions of the community. The roots of the convention date back to over 100 years ago.

Held during October, the convention features a variety of competitions, including mandolin, banjo, dulcimer, and, of course, fiddle contests. Winners in these categories are crowned Alabama State Champions.

The event also includes arts and crafts vendors, food stalls, and spontaneous jam sessions, creating a vibrant atmosphere that celebrates the region’s musical heritage.

Athens was the first city in the state to receive power from TVA

The city of Athens holds a significant place in the history of the Tennessee Valley Authority. It was the first city to receive power from the TVA in 1934.

The introduction of TVA power not only provided reliable electricity to Athens but also laid the foundation for future advancements to the region.

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