Leeds is a city steeped in history. A stroll through downtown Leeds passes multiple homes and business spaces listed on the Jefferson County Historic Commission’s listing.

As Leeds expands toward the interstate, business owners and citizens are keeping an eye on downtown Leeds as well. The law offices, specialty shops, and office buildings mingle in among a bustling arts center, mechanics shops, medical and dental offices and even an auction site. Leeds’s historic downtown has buildings open to rent as well.

“Revitalizing business and community activities in the historic downtown district is to the best interest of everyone in Leeds,” said Sandra McGuire, executive director ot the Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce. “We want to see the growth of business here and to capitalize on the charm and beauty these historic buildings offer.”  

Throughout Alabama, older cities have invested in renovating their historical buildings to attract business and visitors as well as offering goods, services and entertainment to families within the community itself. Cities like Opelika, Columbiana, Fairhope and Athens have focused their efforts on attracting residents and visitors passing through to their downtown areas.

Currently, historic Leeds is home to The Downtown Folk Festival and John Henry Celebration each fall. The Historic Depot is often the site of parties and receptions for visitors and residents alike.

“Leeds is a quaint little town. I see lots of history markers and signs for historic listings,” said Jan Tompkins of Arab, a recent visitor to downtown Leeds. “I like to visit the shops in the downtown area but I wish the experience could be completed with a meal in a nice atmosphere.”

Downtown offers a turn of the century beauty that is often hard to find. However, visitors and local residents alike have said the downtown district has plenty of room to grow and expand on opportunities to shop, dine and enjoy the nostalgic setting.

The Leeds Theatre and Arts Council performances attract many artists, patrons of the arts and visitors from around Alabama regularly throughout the year. There are parks, gazebos and benches that allow walkers a place to rest, relax and take in the trees, plants, passersby and catch their breath.

“Someone needs to take advantage of the spacious and affordable buildings in Leeds,” said Troy McGraw, a Leeds resident. “There are some real bargains per square foot and we need a restaurant and some specialty shops. With some improvements to parking, it could work.”  

Visiting the sites of Alabama cities on the internet, reveals a theme of preserving the past while embracing the future. Growth and the evolution of the old towns of our state into cities is inevitable and holding onto the treasured history of local buildings and landmarks is possible based on the success that other cities have had in re-invigorating their downtown areas.