Cullman, Alabama began with the dream of one man, and grew into a vibrant community where today, many dreams come true. In the 1870’s, German refugee Col. John Cullman fled his country after rumors began that he was involved in a plot to kill the Russian Czar. He came to Alabama and recognized the fertile soil, generous southern climate and sparse population as outstanding factors for prosperity. Cullman envisioned a community where fellow German immigrants might start their lives anew in the American ‘land of opportunity”.
Strategically located 45 miles from the major cities of Birmingham and Huntsville, the city of Cullman rests against the economically vital tracks of the CSX Railroad. Col. Cullman drew more than 10,000 German expatriates to the region. According to the 2000 Census, Cullman County held 77,483 residents, with 2005 estimates showing an increase of 2.2%. Cullman City, the county seat, reported almost 14,000 residents, with an 8.5% growth rate between 1990 and 2004.
Cullman, AL maintains a strong agricultural base, ranking in the top 60 counties nationwide for agricultural income. The robust economy is diverse as well, with over 120 manufacturing and distribution companies. Site Selection Magazine rated Cullman in the top ten counties for new and expanding business, and number 3 in the top 100 “micropolitan” regions for corporate facilities. The city of Cullman acts as the commercial, financial and cultural hub for all its surrounding counties. Over a million people reside in the Birmingham-Hoover-Cullman Combined Statistical Area.
Interstate Highway 65 is Cullman’s main transportation link, along with several excellent Alabama State Highways. Cullman Airport in Folsom Field holds a fine reputation for a small airport, and houses the Wallace State College Flying School and Sky Dive Alabama. Education remains vital to the hard-working citizens of Cullman. Both city and county public school systems rank highest in Alabama, while each contains excellent private schools as well. Six colleges lie within 40 miles of Cullman, including the outstanding University of Alabama in Huntsville.
Cullman, Alabama, known as the “City of Churches”, maintains an aesthetically pleasing ambience. Here one finds the Ave Maria Grotto, a four-acre park holding over a hundred miniature reproductions of world famous shrines and beloved cathedrals. Cullman contains three separate historic districts, one of which is the downtown business district, with 58 listed buildings and churches. The “Die Deutsche Kolonie Von Nord Alabama”, which means German Colony of North Alabama, is a lovely residential district, displaying intricate Victorian architecture. The Betz Addition Historic District contains 72 buildings dating from the 1800’s.
Cullman celebrates its close-knit community in several festivals through the year. The Echota Cherokee Indian Festival honors Native American ancestors, while Cullman Oktoberfest pays tribute to German bloodlines. Cullman’s unique Alabama Gourd Festival, along with Mule Days and the luscious Strawberry Festival celebrate the land that gives so many of their livelihoods.
Cullman, Alabama maintains strong family and community values. With a low crime rate, excellent schools, state of the art health facilities and a robust economy, Cullman residents live out the original founders’ dream.
