Welcome to Helena
Explore Helena offers new and current residents of Helena, Alabama an organized and visual guide to everything that makes Helena stand out amongst its neighbors. Inside you will find everything from a guide to our beautiful parks, descriptions of our exciting annual events and a look at the various individuals that make our community the rich and diverse community it has become. Whether you’re visiting Helena or here to stay, let Explore Helena guide you through our small town that we all love so much.
The Davidson Dam
The Davidson Dam, named after C.T. Davidson, was created in 1909 when Davidson constructed it to provide a reservoir for steam trains traveling through the city. It formerly helped power the Helena grist mill, cotton gin and produced electricity for the city. It is now one of the most serene sights in the city and serves as the home to the popular Buck Creek Festival each year.
EDITORIAL DESIGN
Michaela Bankston
Dave Domescik
Anna Grace Moore
Tyler Raley
Andrew Simonson
Noah Wortham
Sydney Allen
Jamie Dawkins
Rowan Futrell
Connor Martin-Lively
MARKETING
Kelsey Alexander
Noah Brakefield
Evann Campbell
Octavia Campbell
Rachel Henderson
Rhett McCreight
Viridiana Romero
ADMINISTRATION
Alec Etheredge
Mary Jo Eskridge
Stacey Meadows
Lauren Morris
Kayla Reeves
Leslie Reeves
Brittany Schofield
Explore Helena is the official visitors guide for the city of Helena that is published yearly by Shelby County Newsmedia, Inc. The magazine is mailed to all households and businesses in the 35080 zip code and will be available year-round throughout the city. Additional copies may be available at Helena City Hall at 205-663-2161 or by emailing info@helenathemagazine.com.
Reproduction in whole or in part without express written permission is prohibited. Please address all correspondence (including but not limited to letters, story ideas and requests to reprint materials) to: Editor, Shelby County Newsmedia, Inc., P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051.
Please email advertise@helenathemagazine.com for advertising inquiries.
A LETTER FROM THE MAYOR OF HELENA
TTo the citizens of the City of Helena and visitors alike, I want to welcome you to our city highlight magazine; Explore Helena. This annual publication gives everyone the very best of Helena. People often ask, why Helena? The answer is going to give you something that we bet you cannot find anywhere else in the country.
Caring people who truly value to the culture of a small close-knit city, great schools and educators, miles of trails, the gorgeous Cahaba River and Buck Creek, a committed city staff, parks and playgrounds, and safe neighborhoods are just a few of the reasons why people choose “Helena: A Community To Call Home.”
Helena has experienced significant growth in the past decade, yet we retain a small-town feeling, evidenced by events such as our city-wide Christmas in Helena Tree Lighting, parade and holiday market. In summer, we enjoy Old Town LIVE music events, a vibrant farm market, and a July 3rd fireworks display that rivals many big cities. With the biggest summer events, Old Town Live Concert Series that brings top notch musical acts in each month for free concerts at Amphitheater Park. October the Helena’s Buck Creek Festival caps off with thousands of rubber duckies racing don the dam to see the winner. This is just a small sample of such events, and we hope you’ll join in the fun!
We’re close to Birmingham, with its museums,
hospitals, new stadium, ballparks, and other attractions, all of which are easily accessible. As a family-based community families can always visit the Helena Museum, stop of the Caboose, have your kicks involved in recreational sports, or simply relax having great food and beverage in Old Town.
Our emergency first responders, and our welltrained fire department as well as a dedicated police force (including community police officers and school liaisons) help keep us safe. Helena is considered one of the Safest cities in the nation year after year.
We’ve built a close relationship with our public schools and provide an innovative grant program for teachers to fund projects that help facilitate learning. The Senior Program provides a place and activities dedicated to enhancing the lives of seniors.
We enjoy this quality of life while having the lowest tax rate of all the cities in the region Our city government works with a balanced budget, controls expenses and manages prudent reserves to preserve our future.
Whether you’re a current resident or someone looking for a place to visit, live or build a business, know that you are welcome in Helena! “Helena: A Community To Call Home.”
J. BRIAN PUCKETT Mayor of Helena
“Helena has experienced significant growth in the past decade, yet we retain a small-town feeling, evidenced by events such as our city-wide Christmas in Helena Tree Lighting, parade and holiday market.”
- Brian Puckett, mayor of Helena
ABOUT HELENA
Helena is a thriving suburb located in the Birmingham-Hoover MSA, and it has continuously been ranked as one of the best places to live in Alabama. Helena’s unique charm is due to a lively historic downtown district situated along the Cahaba River paired with progressive, well-planned development resulting in a popular destination for families. With the revitalization of Old Town Helena, new retail developments, and new City Hall and town center projects underway, Helena is experiencing growth across multiple sectors and is projected to see a continued rise in population and housing numbers. We hope you’ll visit Helena to establish your place in the market now and be on the forefront of this expanding community!
POPULATION
HELENA IS THE 29th LARGEST CITY IN THE STATE OF ALABAMA CITY POPULATION: 22,117
15,991 OF THE RESIDENTS IN HELENA ARE ADULTS
2,942 RESIDENTS ARE SENIORS
31.70%
48.2% POPULATION INCREASE SINCE 2010
OF RESIDENTS POSSESS A BACHELOR’S DEGREE OF HIGHER
CITY SAFETY
3rd
HELENA IS THE THIRD SAFEST CITY IN ALABAMA
3.8% VIOLENT CRIME RATE (2.16% BELOW STATE AVERAGE)
5.94% PROPERTY CRIME RATE (19.9% BELOW STATE AVERAGE)
HELENA HIGH SCHOOL RANKED #2 OUT OF ALL SHELBY COUNTY HIGH SCHOOLS AND #24 OUT OF ALL ALABAMA HIGH SCHOOLS, ACCORDING TO USNEWS.COM
HELENA HIGH SCHOOL HAS A GRADUATION RATE OF 96%.
BOB VAN LOAN
Volunteer of the Year
Behind many of the events that the residents of Helena attend year after year, they come to find many constants, among those being the smiling face of Bob Van Loan.
The city’s festivities always include the work of volunteers who go behind the scenes and help to create a lively and friendly atmosphere for those who attend. It requires a lot of operation, something Van Loan is no stranger to.
When he moved into the city with his wife following his retirement, he wanted to find something to do. Luckily, it was an easy thing to step into, but little did he know, it was going to set the stage for the foreseeable future.
“Almost immediately, I realized that I needed to get some structure, like I had a job,” Bob Van Loan said. “I needed to fill my time with something. I just looked around the community and saw some opportunities to volunteer on either a one-off or a continuing basis, and just sort of jumped in with both feet.”
That jump became very beneficial for him, ultimately allowing him to be awarded as the 2024 Helena Lifetime Volunteer, serving as a gift of gratitude for all of his work as a Helena resident.
Van Loan moved to Helena in 2007 after retiring from a lengthy career with the United States Department of Defense.
Over the course of his time in volunteer work, Van Loan has been involved in many
of Helena’s most popular annual staples such as Movies in the Park, the farmers market, Buck Creek Festival, the Helena Business Association and so much more.
Volunteering for the city’s events requires a hefty amount of work. Whether that be setting up, cleaning out, serving at stations or other duties, each opportunity comes with its own set of needs and perks.
Van Loan shared his immense amount of joy for getting to do what he does, saying that for him, he hopes that his involvement helps influence others to volunteer as well.
After years of service, Van Loan earned the distinction of being Helena’s volunteer of the year for 2024, an award that is given out by the city to an individual that has provided exceptional service to Helena, going above and beyond to give back.
Van Loan understands and wants people to know that without the work that volunteers provide, Helena would not have the exact same charm that it is known for today.
“Without volunteers to get a lot of this work accomplished, the city would not have a lot of the amenities that it does have or has had in the past,” Van Loan said. “A lot of people would look to the city to do that, but our city, and most cities our size, would just not be capable of that– it’s out of the question from a budget standpoint or a manpower standpoint. Without people willing to step up and donate their time and their effort to fill those gaps, people who live in cities like Helena wouldn’t have the satisfaction of living here.”
JANE B. HOLMES PUBLIC LIBRARY
The city of Helena’s library is the perfect place to engage and learn through books and activities.
MEET LIBRARY DIRECTOR DAN DEARING
Dan Dearing has been in his current position as the director of the Jane B. Holmes Library for 15 years. He credits his wife, Katherine Dearing, for encouraging him to apply, which led to former Helena Mayor Charles “Sonny” Penhale giving him a chance at the job. He is extremely thankful for the citizens in Helena for their support of the library each year. Dearing is a native of Helena and a graduate of Pelham High School. He went on to graduate from the University of Alabama and has served on many of Helena’s boards and committees.
Since it first opened its doors to Helena residents 36 years ago, the Jane B. Holmes Public Library has provided a modern library experience with a home town feel. The library is located on Tucker Road, between Helena City Hall and scenic Joe Tucker Park. The library staff strives to assist residents in a friendly and professional manner.
In addition to the wonderful selection of books for all ages, services include access to e-books and e-audio books, movies, computer access, and much more. Patrons with a Shelby County library card have access to many additional resources. The Friends of the Library offers residents an opportunity to
volunteer and promote all that the library has to offer.
With a variety of programs for all ages, the Jane B. Holmes Library plays an important role in the city of Helena. Popular choices include Storytime for preschoolers, The 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten reading program, neat crafts, Lego Fun, as well as events for teens, adults and seniors. In addition, the always greatly anticipated summer reading challenge encourages all residents to read throughout the summer. Whether you are a resident of Helena, or just visiting, the Jane B. Holmes Public Library is a fun and friendly place to visit!
HELENA SENIOR CITIZENS
The Helena Senior Citizens is an active group of senior adults, ages 55 and older, that is growing and welcomes all Helena seniors to come join the fun. Several activities the group looks forward to is playing bingo, exercise class, painting classes and card games on Friday nights.
The group has made several outings in the past, including a trip to hear the Alabama Symphony, a concert by Taylor Hicks and the Senior Citizens Health Fair. They have also made a trip to Tuscumbia, where they visited the childhood home of Helen Keller, the Alabama Music Hall of Fame, the Coon Dog Cemetery and lunched at the famous Rattlesnake Saloon.
It’s free and easy to join the group. An application can be obtained by going to the city’s website Cityofhelena.org under the Parks and Recreation section. You can also pick one up at city hall or by contacting Lilly Clayton via email at LClayton@cityofhelena. org or phone through the parks and recreation department.
The group meets in the Senior Citizens room at the Helena Sports Complex.
Helena’s Senior Citizen Program is full of fun activities that encourage socialization and stepping outside your comfort zone. Every week there is something new and exciting for local senior citizens to take part in.
The program has been designed to appeal to all areas of interest, and it is open to all Helena area seniors looking for a fun and stimulating activity.
HAPPENINGS IN HELENA
Throughout the year, residents of Helena never hurt for activities. Whether it’s in the hot summer months or in the cooler fall months, every corner of Helena will have an exciting community-centered event for residents and visitors to enjoy.
Independence Day Celebration
One of the most beautiful sights each year are the fireworks during the Independence Day Celebration in Helena. Set along the scenic banks of Buck Creek at Amphitheater Park, the event is a day full of fun that is capped off by an impressive and explosive fireworks display. It is an event that can be seen and heard throughout the city. No spots are better to witness the show than those near the Davidson Dam.
Buck Creek Festival
The Buck Creek Festival takes place in Old Town at Amphitheater Park and serves as the most popular event of the year. Held each year in Old Town’s Amphitheater Park, the event brings in people from across Shelby County and beyond to the banks of Buck Creek to experience two days brimming with fun. The event features live music, food and drink vendors, arts and crafts, rides, games and, of course, the famed duck race over the waterfall.
Halloween in Helena
No shortcuts are taken when it comes to this spooky time of year, as October is filled with frighteningly fun opportunities throughout the city. Not only can you pick pumpkins, but Old Town is transformed with fall décor that includes the famed Pumpkin House. The Old Cahaba and Hillsboro neighborhoods, two of the biggest in the city, also host witches rides. Those with pups can even get their furry friends in on the fall fun at the annual Barktoberfest event held at Amphitheater Park.
Christmas in Helena
Christmas in Helena resembles celebrations you might find in an oldtime movie and is exactly what you might expect from its tight-knit community. The city hosts its annual Christmas tree lighting and concert the first Friday in December, followed closely by a parade through Old Town the following day. Both events are guaranteed to bring families and friends together and prepare everyone for the holidays.
Old Town Live
Among the city’s newest traditions, Old Town Live began in 2021. Now, it is a tradition that is looked forward to by its many residents. The event features live music from local musicians and national-level musicians, food trucks, vendors and much more one Saturday a month in a schedule that runs from spring until August.
Helena Easter Egg Hunt
Each year, Helena’s Joe Tucker Park serves as the site of a community Easter egg hunt that brings families together in a community celebration of the holiday. Kids are encouraged to bring baskets and search around the park for as many Easter treats as they can find.
Helena Market Days
The ongoing Helena Market Days are among the most popular events in the area and run from the first Saturday of June until the last Saturday in August. Serving as a farmers market, the event features fresh vegetables, fruits, honey, jams, crafts, artisans and much more for those in attendance. The market is located in Old Town Helena at Amphitheater Park.
BBQ Cookoff
One of the most popular Helena Market Days each year is the annual BBQ Cookoff. Some of the best barbecue cooks around partake in the event each year. The friendly competition and annual rivalries add another level of entertainment to the event.
CITY GOVERNMENT
Here is an up-close look at the individuals who make Helena the special place it is through their work on City Council.
Utilities and Services
Cable, Internet and Phone
uAT&T Uverse – 1-888-708-0934 att.com
uSpectrum – 1-855-707-7328 spectrum.com
uC-Spire, Fiber Internet – 1-855-277-4735 cspire.com
Gas
uSpire – 1-800-292-4008 spireenergy.com
Power
uAlabama Power Company – 1-800-245-2244 alabamapower.com
Trash Services
uRepublic Services – (205) 631-1313 republicservices.com
Water and Sewer
uHelena Utilities City Water Service (205) 663-1670
LOCAL SCHOOLS
uShelby County Board of Education – (205) 682-7000 shelbyed.k12.al.us/
uHelena Elementary School – (205) 682-5540 shelbyed.k12.al.us/schools/hes/index.htm
uHelena Intermediate School – (205) 682-5520 shelbyed.k12.al.us/schools/his/index.htm
uHelena Middle School – (205) 682-5300 shelbyed.k12.al.us/schools/hlms/index.htm
uHelena High School – (205) 682-3650 shelbyed.k12.al.us/schools/hhs/index.html
uHillsboro School - (205) 864-7330 thehillsboroschool.org
Helena City Council meetings
PRE-COUNCIL AT 5 P.M., CITY COUNCIL MEETING AT 6 P.M. HELENA CITY HALL
Helena’s City Council meetings take place the second and fourth Monday of the month. Helena City Council meetings are open to the public and offer the chance for you to get involved in the planning of your community.
Brian Puckett
Mayor
bpuckett@cityofhelena.org
MEET THE CITY COUNCIL
Place 3, Council President Place 1
alobell@cityofhelena.org
cwillis@ cityofhelena.org
Place 2
ahealy@ cityofhelena.org
hwoodman@ cityofhelena.org
ljoseph@cityofhelena.org
Council Agendas and minutes are posted on the city's website in accordance with the Alabama Open Meetings Act. CityofHelena.org
The city of Helena will hold its municipal election for city council and mayor on Tuesday, Aug. 26.
Chris Willis Dan Healy
Alice Lobell Laura Joseph Hewy
HELENA CITY OFFICIALS
The city couldn’t function properly without a dedicated staff who keep Helena’s departments running smoothly.
MADISON HARRIS
CITY CLERK AND TREASURER
DEJAY JONES
BUILDING OFFICIAL
JASON POE
DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS
Madison Harris recently celebrated six years with the city of Helena back in November 2024. It also marked the same year that she was promoted to the position of City Clerk. She was sworn in as the city’s newest clerk and treasurer on Sept. 27, 2024, taking over for Amanda Traywick, who retired. Harris spent the previous six years working as the accounts payable clerk for the city before stepping into her new role.
JEFFREY NELSON
UTILITIES DEPARTMENT SUPERINTENDENT
Jeffrey Nelson, a lifetime resident of the city of Helena, currently serves as the superintendent of the Helena Utility Board. Nelson began working for Helena utilities in 2007 as a laborer and achieved his Grade 2 water certification in 2012. He has gained knowledge and experience in each position with the utility board, working his way up to the current position, which he took on Oct. 1 of last year. Nelson has been married for 14 years to wife Brandy Nelson. The two have an 11-year-old daughter, Ryleigh Kate Nelson.
Jones has been serving Helena for the past seven years. Having a background in industrial, commercial and residential construction, he came on as a Building Inspector in 2017 and became the city’s building official in 2021. Dejay’s main focus with the city is to ensure the city and its residents’ homes are safe and up to code. With the booming growth Helena has witnessed in recent years, it is his mission to ensure that safety is paramount.
Poe joined the growing Public Works Department in 2016. Within two years, Jason became the Director where he has lead a team of dedicated employees that keep Helena looking great ever since. He is a certified welder as well as a certified supervisor through the state and federal governments. Jason believes that improving his team by giving them the tools and education that they need to continue growing while also believing the same for himself.
Teresa Amos began her career with Helena Utility Board in 2006 as a utility clerk and was promoted to Secretary/Treasurer in 2012. She is a Helena native and has raised two children here with her husband, Chuck. Serving the community and ensuring they are provided with the best service possible is her goal.
UTILITY BOARD SECRETARY
TERESA AMOS BILL MILLER
DIRECTOR OF PARKS AND RECREATION
Bill has served as director of Parks and Recreation since 2015. He oversees a well-trained staff who are responsible for the maintenance of facilities and overseeing future developments for Helena. Along with working with our schools, the department currently manages three athletic parks, four common parks, six tennis courts, the Helena Community Center, the Helena Amphitheater, and Senior Citizen Programs as well as the roughly 900 youths each season in various athletics programs.
HELENA FIRE DEPARTMENT
The Helena Fire Department has 23 full time employees and 14 volunteers. All employees are, at a minimum, Alabama State certified as Firefighter I & II. In addition, all employees are National Registered EMT-Paramedics or currently in school to become a medic. HFD operates four (4) fire stations that are staffed twenty-four (24) hours daily.
CHRIS MILLER FIRE CHIEF
Miller’s career in fire service spans nearly 20 years. He first started with the HFD as a parttime firefighter/paramedic in 2007 has fully dedicated himself to the department for the last 14 years. He was sworn in to the role of fire chief in September 2023 following the retirement of Peter Valenti. Prior to his promotion, he served as captain on B-shift and as the department’s training officer.
HELENA POLICE DEPARTMENT
The Helena Police Department has prided itself on serving the community since the beginning. With a current roster of 28 sworn officers and 8 non-sworn personnel, the police department works to provide residents of Helena with safety and security 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Their highly-trained officers are fully capable of handling any situation with sensitivity and efficiency.
MIKE WOOD POLICE CHIEF
In March of this year, Mike Wood was appointed as the city of Helena’s newest police chief. A longtime member in law enforcement, Wood was approved during a council meeting on March 24. A Helena resident, he had a 30-year career with the Bessemer Police Department before taking the new role with Helena. He worked his way up the ladder, starting as a patrol officer before eventually becoming the city’s chief in 2023. He is a graduate of the University of Alabama at Birmingham before getting a masters at Auburn University.
CITY BOARDS & DEPARTMENTS
Below is a list of Helena’s many appointed boards and city departments. For more on each, visit Cityofhelena.org.
HELENA PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
Planning and Zoning Meetings are scheduled for the 3rd Thursday of each month unless it falls on a holiday week or otherwise noted.
HELENA BEAUTIFICATION BOARD
The Beautification Board is an appointed board of the City Council. This board works closely with city leaders to plan and implement the city’s beautification plan. Throughout the year, the board spearheads efforts throughout the city to help improve the overall beauty and livability of the town.
HELENA DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION BOARD
The Diversity and Inclusion Board was formed to further the progression and diversity of the city of Helena and to make sure everyone feels their voice is heard in the community.
HELENA OLD TOWN (H.O.T.) BOARD
The Helena Old Town Board handles everything related to the Old Town area.
HELENA UTILITY BOARD
Helena’s Water Board plans for, operates and maintains both the infrastructure and the organization necessary to provide high quality drinking water and a reliable water supply for all household, commercial, and community needs. They also sustain
HOW TO GET INVOLVED:
and enhance the region’s watersheds and quality of life by managing wastewater and storm water effectively.
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
Public Works provides the citizens of Helena with thorough and efficient mastering of any public works related issues such as road work.
PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT
Parks and Rec handles all of Helena’s local parks, the Helena Amphitheatre and manages seasonal sporting activities.
CITY CLERK’S OFFICE
The mission of the City Clerk’s office of the City of Helena is to assist and support the Office of Mayor and the City Council in the governance of the City. The City Clerk is Madison Harris. Phone: (205) 663-2161 Ext 111
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMITTEE
The Helena Historical Preservation Committee was set up by the Helena Committee to preserve, promote, and protect the history of Helena. Meetings are held on the 3rd Sunday each month at the Helena Museum located at 4000 Helena Road.
Residents of Helena are always invited to attend public meetings on record such as City Council and Pre-Council meetings and Planning and Zoning meetings as well as meetings of the Helena Historic Preservation Committee.
Volunteer opportunities are always available in the city for its many events and offerings. Those who are interested in furthering their involvement with the community are always welcomed to reach out.
Please visit Cityofhelena.org for individual department/board contact information.
UTILITIES IN HELENA
RESIDENTIAL SERVICE
If you are moving into Helena, water & sewer services can be set-up in advance of closing on your new property. The Deed is required within three to five business days after closing. If you are renting, leasing or are leasing to purchase, please supply a copy of your dated/signed Lease Agreement at time of application. If applying with a co-applicant, we will need a copy of each person’s identification.
We request you apply in person; payment must be received in our office at time of application. Please call our office at 205-663-1670 with any questions you may have, and we’ll be happy to assist you.
COMMERCIAL SERVICE
All new commercial accounts must provide a copy of the written Approval of Inspection and Verification of Compliance from the Building Official. Please call the Building Official at 205-663-2161 for assistance.
UTILITY BILLS
uBills are mailed the first of each month.
uMeters are read around the middle of each month.
PAYMENTS
uA drive-thru and drop box for payments is located on the side of the Helena Municipal Building for your convenience.
uTo pay online go to Cityofhelena.org/utility (e-card, e-check, Tel card and Tel check) or pay by phone # 1-833-860-5953 a fee is charged.
uWe also accept Credit and Debit Cards in the office with a charge of $2.00.
uAutomatic Bank Draft is free and safe, apply here in the office.
uNever be late with payments by enrolling in automatic bank draft. This option is free of charge.
GARBAGE AND RECYCLING
Garbage and Recycling service are provided by Republic Services. Please call 205-923-1650 or by email at Republicservices.com. To access your trash pickup schedule, visit Republicservices.com/ locations/alabama/Helena-trash-pickup-andrecycling. Office hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m.
Questions about the city or city services? Visit the action center! Cityofhelena.org/city-action-center/
WATER
To set up Water if you are a new resident of Helena:
uPlease pick up a service application available either at City Hall or available through email from Heidi Gates at City Hall.
uRequired materials for purchase resident are a deed and settlement statement.
uRequired materials for rental resident are a lease and rental agreement.
uThere is a $50 non-refundable service fee for both rental and purchase residents; rental residents will be charged an additional $150 deposit.
uCredit cards will be charged a $2 convenience fee; cash and check are also accepted.
OTHER SERVICES
uElectricity is set up through Alabama Power: 1-800-245-2244
uGas is set up through Spire: 205-326-8100
uDriver’s License/Car Tags: Pelham Office 205-620-6600
uShelby County Tax Collector: 102 Depot St., Columbiana, AL; 205-669-3900
uOnline Nexbillpay: 1-800-639-2435
uVoter Registration: 205-669-3913
uPostal Office Helena: 205-621-6388
If you have a water or sewer emergency, please contact the Helena Police Department at (205) 663-6499
HELENA CITY PARKS
Buck Creek
4151 Helena Rd, Helena, AL 35080
The Buck Creek area of Helena one of the most scenic park areas in the city where favorite annual events like the Buck Creek Festival and Barktoberfest are held. The Buck Creek area is home to the Helena Amphitheater and a beautiful waterfall. Helena residents can go hang out on the banks to see a local concert or just to enjoy the scenery.
Cahaba
Lily Park
3200 Co Rd 52, Helena, AL 35080
If you’re looking for a park to have a family event outside in the sunshine, look no further than Cahaba Lily Park. There are plenty of outdoor pavilions with grills, tables and even a playground for families to have a fun day together. While you’re there, check out the dedication statue for Shelby County’s beloved K-9 dog officers.
Joe Tucker Park
230 Tucker Rd, Helena, AL 35080
Joe Tucker Park is a multifaceted park for people of all interests. There’s a baseball/softball field for those looking for a sports activity, leisurely walking trails for those desiring a pleasant walk through nature, exercise equipment, a playground and a pond that houses an assortment of wildlife including geese and ducks.
Cahaba River Park
2793 River Road Helena, AL 35080
For those looking for a park that promotes more intense physical activity, there is no better than Cahaba River Park. The park provides outlets for fishing, kayaking, mountain biking, canoeing and even swimming. Nature lovers will also love its extensive population of native birds and beautiful Cahaba lilies that live along the river banks.
Penhale Park
LEGEND
1. ALABAMA GOVERNOR W. RUFUS COBB
HOME: Cobb served as Alabama’s governor from 1878-1882
2. HELENA MUSEUM AND HISTORICAL MARKER: Named for Kenneth Penhale, the building was originally the local Masonic Lodge. The current building was relocated from Maylene, AL in 1935 after the original was destroyed in the 1933 tornado.
3. PRESIDENT’S HOUSE: Dr. Isaac Tichenor was Auburn University’s president from 1872-1882. The house was destroyed in the 1933 tornado.
4. DOCTOR’S OFFICE: Dr. Tucker was Helena’s first physician, and town pharmacist. Joe Tucker Park is named in honor of the doctor’s son. Today, the park contains a replica of a cabin that early Alabama settlers would have used as a home.
5. MULLINS GROCERY: The Mullins brothers owned three general stores in the area.
6. STANDARD OIL: The world’s largest oil refiner at its height which relocated from Jefferson County.
7. ODD FELLOWS LODGE: The fraternal orders for laborers around the turn of the century in the area mining communities all but disappeared after the Second World War.
8. NASH DRUGS/POWELL HOTEL: Nash Drugs once held slot machines.
9. OLD HELENA TOWN HALL: This building served as the original Helena Town Hall and as the town’s first library.
10. WALLACE GROCERY: Operated by T.L. Wallace, it was built between 1908-1910 using stones from the destroyed railroad bridge and train trestle located over the Cahaba River.
11. RUFFIN BROTHERS STORE: For 50 years the brothers sold everything from hats to coffins and served as the town’s post office.
12. CABOOSE AND CENTRAL IRON: Located here is the Historic Birmingham Mineral Railroad Site Marker (L&N). Today, the Helena Caboose serves as the Welcome Center of Helena, Alabama.
13. TELEPHONE SWITCH HOUSE: This building served as Helena’s first phone station and switchboard. It was built in 1911. Later, the building was used as the Helena Jailhouse.
14. THE HELENA DEPOT: Originally located on Railroad Avenue in 1872. In 1905, it was moved to a location behind the C.T. Davidson House. In the 1990’s, the building was moved to its current location and now serves as a restaurant.
15. BUCK CREEK DAM: The dam was created in 1909 by C.T. Davidson. He constructed the dam to provide a reservoir for passing steam trains, as well as to harness the power for the Helena grist mill, cotton gin, and electricity for the town.
16. DAVIDSON SKATING RINK AND POOL: This building sits on the site of the town’s resort.
17. PUMP STATION: Former site of the railroad reservoir and pump station.
Map: Hal Woodman
WALKING TRAILS IN HELENA
LEGEND HE L EN A WALKI N G
HELENA SCHOOLS
The city of Helena’s schools offer the highest quality of education to all of Helena’s youth community. From pre-k to senior year, all of Helena’s students will be given every opportunity to shine academically, athletically and socially. Helena High School has a graduation rate of 95%, and undoubtedly leads their students towards a bright and successful future. It’s important to all of Helena’s educators to give students the necessary tools to pave their own path to find out who they are as a person.
HELENA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Genet Holcomb – Principal 187 3rd Street Helena, AL 35080
Shelbyed.k12.al.us/schools/hes (205) 682-5540
- Principal 3500 County Road 52 Helena, AL 35080
Shelbyed.k12.al.us/schools/his/index.htm (205) 682 5520
Matt
Ashley
Shelbyed.k12.al.us/schools/hhs/index.html
CHURCHES IN HELENA
ANGLICAN
Lamb of God Church
Head pastor: Caron Glenn Davis 5140 Hwy 17 (205) 919-7932 Lambofgodcec.org
BAPTIST
The Church at Old Town
Head Pastor: Josh Knierim 815 Highway 52 E (205) 663-7879 Thechurchatoldtown.org
Gospel Light Baptist Church
Lead Pastor: Gary Bohman 5781 Roy Drive (205) 685-0772 Glbcbham.com
Mount Pleasant Baptist Church
Head Pastor: Edwin Dinkins 5320 Helena Road (205) 624-3323 Mpbchelena.com
Riverside Baptist Church
Senior Pastor: Chris Wilson
Worship Pastor: Kyle Ziglar 1919 Highway 52 West (205) 426-1910 Rbchelena.org
Crossbridge Community Church
Lead Pastor: Cody Brister 1455 Starkey Street (205) 358-3500 Crossbridgehelena.com
Church at Old Town
Church at Cahaba Bend
CHURCH OF CHRIST
Church of Christ at Helena 2499 Highway 58 (205) 620-4575
Helenachurch.com
DISCIPLES OF CHRIST:
Grace Christian Church
Lead Pastor: Rev. Brad Henderson 869 County Road 52 (205) 426-1233
Gracechristianchurch.org
METHODIST
Helena Methodist Church
Head Pastor: Rev. Rusty Tate 2035 Highway 58 (205) 663-0111 Helenamethodist.org
Church at Cahaba Bend
Lead Pastor: Rev. Patrick Friday 3721 Hwy 52 West (205) 621-8060 Cahababend.org
NON-DENOMINATIONAL
Open Door Independent Church 120 Laurel Woods Drive (205) 482-5963
Opendooral.com
The Cornerstone Church
Lead Pastor: Timothy Trimble 2694 Highway 58 (205) 663-9332
Cornerstonechurchhelena.org
New Vision Christian Church
Senior Pastor: Van C. Houser 2383 Highway 95 (205) 919-6678
Nvcc4god.org
The Rock Church
Head Pastor: Bryan Van Gieson 501 2nd Avenue West (205) 358-7625
Rockofbirmingham.org
The Voice of Faith International Ministries
Head Pastor: Franklin Kirksey 1560 Cunningham Drive (205) 663-7396
PRESBYTERIAN
Harmony Church of Helena
Head Pastor: Scott Edwards 3396 Helena Road (205) 663-2174
Harmonychurchofhelena.net
Christ Community Church
Pastors: Phil Chambers and David Cunningham 2222 Highway 52 (205) 881-4222
ChristCommunity.net
A Day In Helena
The city of Helena prides itself on the diverse and fun-filled activities it has to offer, whether you’re staying for a weekend or just passing through for the day. Here are some activities we recommend for everyone.
Caboose Welcome Center
A staple in the Helena community, the Red Caboose serves as a Welcome Center landmark to all who enter Helena. Take a picture with it and tag us on Instagram.
Helena Puzzle Exchange
Located inside the Caboose, enjoy the Helena Puzzle Exchange, offering a variety of challenging puzzles. It has become one of the many traditions of Old Town Helena.
Local shopping
Make your way to Old Town to support the local businesses that call the banks of Buck Creek home, many of which have been around for years.
Lunch at The Depot
The Depot Deli & Grill is one of Helena’s most popular lunch spots. Parked next to the Big Red Caboose by the railroad tracks, this quaint and delicious deli offers a diverse menu. Oh, and it also happens to be the city’s old freight depot.
Refined to go
Going into its fourth year of business, Refined to Go is highly rated and offers upscale comfort food to go. When you’ve had a long day and don’t feel like cooking, it’s the perfect spot to pick up dinner.
Oversoul Brewing
This local brewery provides a large variety of different craft beers that any beer enthusiast will enjoy. While you’re there, take in the view of Old Town Helena and Buck Creek.
Kayaking Buck Creek
Get out the kayak, grab your paddle and take off down Buck Creek for a fun day of exploring the serene nature that surrounds the city of Helena.
Cahaba Lily Park
Cahaba Lily Park offers a walking trail, playground, picnic areas and even offers shaded pavilions with grills for entertaining friends.
Helena Sports Complex
There’s always something fun to do at the Helena Sports Complex. The complex hosts a variety of events like line dancing classes for seniors, soccer games and even a potluck or two.
Live Music at Goodfellas
As your day winds down, head over to Goodfellas in Old Town Helena for some live music, food, drinks, pool tables and more.
Dinner at Osaka
Whether you are looking to wind your day down with a relaxing dinner, looking for the perfect date night or just in the mood for the some of the best sushi around, make sure to check out Osaka. The Japanese and sushi steakhouse offers hibachi, sushi, sashimi and much more. Don’t forget to try the Helena roll.
Helena Museum
If you’re looking for a fun place to spend an hour or two and want to learn about Helena’s vibrant history, visit the Helena Museum.
Sunset on the hilltop
If you’re looking for a special way to end your day, Helena is know for breathtaking sunsets. Popular destinations to take in the tremendous view include Helena High School, Buck Creek Park and Joe Tucker Park.
Happening in Helena
The sights of Helena showcase the entertainment and beauty of a city that remains at the forefront among communities in Alabama. Whether it’s Old Town Live, local sports, Buck Creek Festival, carnivals, holiday festivities or other lively activities, the city is thriving with family-fun opportunities.
HISTORY OF HELENA
Helena’s history is as rich and unique as the town’s residents. Here is a brief synopsis of how our town came to be.
The community that would become Helena started in 1845 as the town of Lee’s Cove. In 1856, the name was first changed to Hillsboro. During the Civil War, the confederate government built a rolling mill that would be used to build plate that was sent to the Naval Arsenal in Selma. This mill was destroyed by Union troops in April 1865.
The Louisville & Nashville Railroad sent a railroad engineer named Peter Boyle to survey a route that would go from Montgomery, AL and northward to Elyton, AL (present day-Birmingham, AL). In the 1880s, Peter Boyle fell in love with a local judge’s daughter named Helen Lee. The railroad station, then established near the town of Hillsboro, was named “Helena” by Boyle in honor of his sweetheart. The city’s first mayor was M.H. Williams, also a railroad agent.
The steel mill was subsequently reopened, and the city flourished during the late 19th century. Numerous industrial facilities also opened, such as a cotton gin, a grist mill, coal mines, and a rail yard; along with resident homes, stores
and a hotel.
Fire swept through the city in 1895 and destroyed many structures in the downtown area and along Buck Creek on what was then Railroad Avenue. But the flames did not singe the success that continued into the early 20th century.
Around 1920, the boom ended with the closing of the coal mines and the relocation of the steel mill. The population declined as residents moved in search of jobs. The
Great Depression dealt Helena another blow, as did a devastating tornado in 1933 that destroyed 110 homes and killed 13 of the city’s residents.
Despite the adversities, the community came together and started over, eventually healing and repairing the damage that was sustained. Ever since, that small town has continued to grow with a big heart and grander vision of the Helena yet to come.
HELENA
P.O.
