For over 30 years, Countrywood has been one of the most desired neighborhoods in Vestavia Hills because of its close proximity to schools, shopping, churches, parks and city center.
From the 1920s to the end of the 1940s, Birmingham residents began migrating over the mountains seeking estate lots, equestrian land and bluer skies than those of the steel mill city.
By 1950, the area population was over 600 and residents petitioned Jefferson County to incorporate and create the small town of Vestavia Hills. The name was derived from “Vestavia Hills”, the first estate established on Shades Mountain overlooking Birmingham. This estate was owned by George Battey Ward, a two-term mayor of Birmingham, who played an influential role in the history of Vestavia Hills. Mr. Ward’s classically-inspired estate and gardens became well-known across the area as an architectural landmark and later appeared on souvenirs and post cards. His replica of the ancient Roman Temple of Vesta was later moved to the northern entrance of the city atop Shades Crest and became the historical gateway Sibyl Temple. This iconic Vestavia monument is situated on a bluff near the intersection of US 31 and Shades Crest Road. Today it serves as a popular location for weddings, photo shoots and other gatherings.
The creation of Vestavia Hills School system in 1970 and the opening of Red Mountain Expressway in 1977 spurred growth beyond Shades Crest. By the 1980’s, annexation expanded the Rocky Ridge and Altadena Valley area. This annexed land was once a thriving dairy and agriculture area.
In 1978, the Birmingham Mental Health Board decided to sell property along Rocky Ridge Road and Dolly Ridge Road. A partnership between Executive Homes, Jim Scott and Dick Baker and the Mental Health Board began developing the first two streets in the Countrywood subdivision. The first streets were named after the majestic trees found on the property. Over 80 acres were included in the first development and 19 homes completed between 1979-81. The Mental Health Board took great pride in this partnership and received a percentage of each lot and home sold. Within five years, the development consisted of six streets and over 100 homes. Later, additional acreage was sold and the Countyrwood Highlands subdivision was added bringing the total homes to over 350.
Countrywood is a large family community that offers residents beautiful estate lots and an abundance of mature trees and green space. Countrywood’s ideal location offers a premier place to live, shop, work and play. It is one of the most desired neighborhoods in Vestavia because of its close proximity to schools, shopping, churches, parks, recreation center and city hall.
Countrywood is conveniently located just outside of the Birmingham metropolitan area. Rocky Ridge Road offers easy access to the city.