Cherokee County, Alabama, nestled in the northeastern part of the state, is an area rich in natural beauty and history. Founded in 1836 and named after the Cherokee tribe, this county covers approximately 600 square miles, characterized by its mountainous terrain and numerous water bodies, including part of Weiss Lake, a major attraction. The county seat is Centre, which is also the largest city within the county. As of the 2020 census, Cherokee County has a population of about 26,196. The economy of Cherokee County has traditionally been based on agriculture, particularly poultry farming, as well as manufacturing and tourism, with the scenic landscapes providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. The presence of historical sites and the county’s location near the Georgia and Tennessee borders also contribute to its cultural and economic vibrancy.
List of All Cities in Cherokee County
- Centre
List of All Towns in Cherokee County
- Cedar Bluff
- Collinsville (partly in DeKalb County)
- Gaylesville
- Leesburg
- Piedmont (partly in Calhoun County)
- Sand Rock (partly in DeKalb County)
Table of Populations and Zip Codes for Each City and Town
| City/Town | Population (2020) | Zip Codes |
|---|---|---|
| Centre | 3,569 | 35960 |
| Cedar Bluff | 1,802 | 35959 |
| Collinsville | 1,948 | 35961 |
| Gaylesville | 144 | 35973 |
| Leesburg | 1,027 | 35983 |
| Piedmont | 4,684 (total) | 36272 |
| Sand Rock | 560 (total) | 35983 |
Centre
Centre is located on the shores of Weiss Lake, making it a hub for fishing and water sports in the region.
Education
Centre is served by Cherokee County Schools, including Cherokee County High School. There are no colleges within Centre; the nearest higher education facilities are located in neighboring counties.
Road Network
Major roads include U.S. Highway 411 and State Route 9, facilitating travel across the state and to Georgia.
Major Landmarks
The Cherokee County Historical Museum and the Weiss Lake area are major attractions.
Cedar Bluff
Situated along Weiss Lake, Cedar Bluff features waterfront properties and is a popular destination for vacationers and retirees.
Education
Served by the Cherokee County School District, including Cedar Bluff School which covers all grades.
Road Network
Accessible via State Route 9 and County Road 68, linking it to Centre and other local areas.
Major Landmarks
Weiss Lake and the nearby Cornwall Furnace Park are key highlights.
Collinsville
Straddling the line between Cherokee and DeKalb counties, Collinsville is known for its agricultural lands and small-town atmosphere.
Education
Collinsville High School serves as the educational center for the town, with facilities for both elementary and high school levels.
Road Network
Situated along U.S. Highway 11, providing easy access to major cities like Birmingham and Chattanooga.
Major Landmarks
The Collinsville Trade Day, one of the largest outdoor markets in the South, attracts thousands of visitors weekly.
Gaylesville
Located in the northern part of the county, Gaylesville is a small rural community near the confluence of the Chattooga and Coosa Rivers.
Education
Students attend Gaylesville School, which serves kindergarten through twelfth grade.
Road Network
State Route 35 is the main thoroughfare, connecting to Rome, Georgia, and Fort Payne, Alabama.
Major Landmarks
Proximity to Little River Canyon National Preserve and historic sites related to early Native American and pioneer life.
Leesburg
Leesburg sits near the banks of Weiss Lake, offering ample opportunities for water-related activities and scenic views.
Education
Leesburg is part of the Cherokee County School District, with students attending schools in nearby towns.
Road Network
Located along U.S. Highway 411, Leesburg has direct routes to Centre and Gadsden.
Major Landmarks
The Leesburg Landing and Weiss Lake are popular for their recreational facilities.
Piedmont
Part of Piedmont extends into Cherokee County, with the town offering a mix of urban and rural elements.
Education
Piedmont City School District provides comprehensive education services from elementary to high school.
Road Network
U.S. Highway 278 and State Route 21 intersect here, enhancing its connectivity.
Major Landmarks
Chief Ladiga Trail and the scenic views of the Appalachian foothills.
Sand Rock
Sand Rock is located at the intersection of Cherokee and DeKalb counties, featuring a landscape that includes farms and wooded areas.
Education
Sand Rock School serves students from kindergarten through twelfth grade within the community.
Road Network
State Route 68 is the primary access route, connecting it to larger highways.
Major Landmarks
Sand Rock has several climbing and hiking spots, making it a destination for outdoor enthusiasts.