Mon, August 4th, 2008
SUNDAY IN THE PARK

Last Sunday was a hot and humid 95 degrees in the shade.  I did not blame my customers for not wanting to look at property that afternoon.  So, I found myself without much to do.  After putting on a pair of walking shorts, a tank top, and my tennies, I ventured out with my spouse to take a walk along one of Birmingham’s most beautiful treasurers, Jemison Park in Mountain Brook.

Stopping and reading about the history of the area, I learned that Jemison Park is named after the late Robert Jemison, Jr., who was one of Birmingham’s most important developers for almost 7 decades.  Around 1929 Robert Jemison, Jr. started developing his vision for the area called Mountain Brook.  This vision included estate-sized home sites along winding scenic roads and commercial development centering along three villages–English Village, Mountain Brook Village, and Crestline Village.  With a hilly topography, Mr. Jemison incorporated nature preserves on the adjacent slopes which protected the area from becoming over developed, and he created bridle paths along the way for recreational use.  In honor of Robert Jemison, Jr.’s contribution to the area, Jemison Park was dedicated in the early 1950’s.  Robert Jemison, Jr. died in 1971, and his vision for an area of unsurpassed beauty continues to this day.  In 2005, Gov. Bob Riley awarded a $60,000 grant to pave the 2,400 foot walking trail which winds through many of Mountain Brook’s most affluent neighborhoods.  The homes and magnificent architecture poised on well-manicured landscaped lots along the walking trail are breathtaking. 

I was most intrigued by the picture post card beauty of the restored Old Mill.  The Old Mill was once used for private parties and socials and it is now a private residence. In 2005 the pedestrian bridge adjacent to the Old Mill was taken by a flood.  It has since been restored.

If you have the time, you need to take a walk along Jemison Park in Mountain Brook.  I thoroughly enjoyed it and will certainly do it again.  Next time though, I will wait until fall to see the changing of the leaves and to enjoy a cool breeze in the autumn air.

Posted by Christina Rickey at 09:17 | Permalink |