Take a Ride with Me Down Memory Lane! 

by Jessie Goodyear

 

I’m proud to call Riverchase, Alabama’s oldest planned community, my home. Developed by John Harbert III, Riverchase became known for quality homes, natural beauty, and its country club. The first home was built in 1976 on Woodsorrel Drive, where the original owner still lives today. I recently gathered with longtime neighbors who remember the “Riverchase New Development” sign and, along with many others, remain legacy voices of a community we have watched grow, change, and endure.

 

  1. What first drew you to put down roots here?

Early residents were drawn to Riverchase for its wooded beauty, golf, convenience, new development, country club, nearby work, family needs, and friendly neighbors. In a young community of protected trees, welcoming streets, a pool, client gatherings, and fairway

friendships, they found the natural beauty and belonging that made putting down roots feel right.

 

  1. How has Riverchase changed since you arrived?

Riverchase has grown from a young, open neighborhood into a busier community with more homes, traffic, roads, parking challenges, and a faster pace. Longtime residents remember “Norman Rockwell” days of children biking outside, a newly paved Riverchase Parkway, helpful neighbors, and families returning to raise children of their own.

Though some worry that mature trees, rentals, estate properties, technology, and less neighborly awareness have weakened the community mindset, many still find comfort in the trees, porches, cared for appearance, lasting friendships, and original spirit.

 

  1. What 1980s gem or tradition do you miss most?

Residents remember the inclusive community, quieter roads, open land, and favorite spots like the Omelette Shoppe, Smokey Joe’s, Papa Joe’s, and The Hungry Fisherman Restaurant. They also miss club Christmas parties, the men’s grill, Halloween on Lakemoor, the Kiwanis Riverchase Halloween Parade, Santa Claus throwing candies, outdoor play, spontaneous gatherings, and the days when everyone knew one another.

 

Let’s give our children a good example by bringing back the sense of community and belonging that once made Riverchase feel so special,​ perhaps through block parties and spontaneous gatherings. Let’s continue working together for a better community!