Named from the nickname of an old furnace built by Mr. W.S. McElwain in 1863, the people of Irondale, Alabama knew at its incorporation 24 years later in 1887, that it was a town to be reckoned with. Originally only 29 people, now 10,000 strong, Irondale is a suburb of Birmingham on the eastern side of Jefferson County. This city is bustling with wonderful people, fascinating economic history, Southern affability, and beautifully maintained streets, parks and buildings. You could not ask for a better place to live in Alabama. Birmingham is approximately 10 miles west, so making that commute daily is a breeze. The housing in Irondale is very affordable with a current average price of about $150,000. Live and work here in one of over 500 local businesses or make the commute somewhere else. Having the option is part of the beauty of this place!

One of the true prides and joys of the City of Irondale is their annual Whistle Stop Festival. 2006 marked it at its 16th year of arts, crafts, music and most importantly, delicious food. The Fried Green Tomato Cooking Contest, Dog Show and Domino Contest are a few of the famous highlights of this celebration of Irondale. Other festivals include the Annual Caboose Classic and an Annual Christmas Parade.

Another source of immense pride for this community is the local Jefferson County Alabama International Baccalaureate School, also known as Shades Valley High School, being named #1 High School in America by Newsweek Magazine for 2005, and #2 for 2006. This prestigious institute of education is private and offers two 2-year programs of which one must be accepted into both separately.

The warm and lovely community of Irondale, Alabama is anything and everything you would need or want in a place to call home.