Culture
Huntsville is home to many major cultural attractions, including Alabama's oldest symphony orchestra, the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra. The Weeden House Museum is the state's oldest public building and holds the artwork of Maria Howard Weeden, while the Huntsville Museum of Art presents seven galleries of artwork, including an emphasis on American South artwork. For mellow fun, try the Southern Adventures water and amusement park, with carnival rides, bumper cars, batting cages and two miniature golf courses.
History
Inextricably linked to Alabama's history, Huntsville was founded in 1805 and quickly became a center of trade and transportation when the railroad system passed through the city. The city was also the home of the first capitol of Alabama and a major site of contention between the North and South during the American Civil War. Until the Great Depression, the city flourished, but like much of the country, experienced severe losses during that time. Post World War II growth and the advent of space technology helped Huntsville to surpass its early glory and today stands as a testament of high-tech business and innovation.
