Hartselle, Alabama, a city of over 15,000 residents, has a rich history dating back to its origins around a train depot in the late 1800s. The downtown area, rebuilt after a 1916 fire, features brick sidewalks and historic shops, earning a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. The city has experienced steady growth, partly due to a tech boom in nearby Huntsville, 35 miles away. Hartselle City Schools, a highly rated district, serves as a central hub for the community, offering advanced coursework and a variety of extracurricular activities. Housing options include single-family homes ranging from 1930s bungalows to newer constructions, with some townhomes available downtown and near Interstate 65. Local shopping is concentrated in downtown Hartselle, with a mix of locally owned shops, restaurants, and larger chain stores along Highway 31. Annual events like Depot Days and Christmas parades draw residents and visitors alike. Recreational features include Sparkman Park, the Lakeside disc golf course, and the city's Aquatics Center. Ongoing projects aim to enhance public amenities, including new walking trails, a replacement library, and a new events center. Hartselle is well-connected via I-65, providing access to Birmingham, 70 miles south, and Nashville, 120 miles north. The nearest hospital is Decatur Morgan Hospital, 12 miles away, and Huntsville International Airport is the closest airport. The climate features hot summers, mild winters, and frequent rain and thunderstorms.