About Decatur

A city with many nicknames, Decatur is the largest city and county seat in Morgan County in Alabama. Decatur's early success was dependent upon its location beside the Tennessee River. Railroad routes and boating traffic pushed the city to the front of North Alabama's economic atmosphere. The city rapidly grew into a large economic center within the Tennessee Valley and was a hub for travelers and cargo between Nashville and Mobile, as well as Chattanooga and New Orleans.

Community

Decatur's arts and educational scenes are thriving, from the Princess Theatre to the Carnegie Visual Arts Center, to Cook's Museum of Natural History. The historic districts are also an important part of the community.

Schools and Education

Decatur's public school system includes twelve elementary schools, three junior highs, and two high schools. Decatur also has five private schools and three institutions of higher education.

Recreation and Culture

In Decatur, there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation year round. Point Mallard Park alone has 750 acres of activities, including the J. Gilmer Blackburn Aquatic Center, Decatur Community Archery Park, Native American Indian Interpretive Walking Trails, a golf course, an indoor ice rink, hiking/biking trails by the river, sports fields and a campground.

Economics and Infrastructure

As Huntsville grew during the space race, Decatur focused heavily on manufacturing, mining, cargo transit, chemical, and high-tech companies.