Nestled between the scenic Ohio River and the rolling campus of Marshall University, Southside stands as one of Huntington, West Virginia’s most beloved and historically rich neighborhoods. Boasting tree-lined avenues, elegant vintage homes, and a deep sense of community, Southside’s past is alive in every brick and boulevard. For many longtime residents, it’s more than a place—it’s the heart and soul of Huntington heritage.
Origins: A Neighborhood is Born
The history of Southside is intimately linked to Huntington’s own beginnings. The city sprang to life in 1871, strategically placed along the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway. As Huntington expanded southward from the bustling riverfront and downtown, what would become Southside was, at first, rolling farmland dotted with orchards and timber.
By the late 19th century, as the city’s influence radiated out, the area south of Fourth Avenue began to fill with gracious homes and family businesses. The neighborhood’s name—“Southside”—originated simply from its position relative to the rapidly developing downtown and the historic Norfolk and Western tracks. It was literally the ‘south side’ of the original city plan.
Key Historical Milestones
The early 1900s marked Southside’s heyday as Huntington’s most fashionable address. Several significant milestones have shaped the neighborhood’s character:
- Historic Housing Boom: Streets like Eighth Avenue, Eleventh Avenue, and the leafy corridors between Sixteenth and Twentieth Streets became known for their stately Victorian, Craftsman, and Colonial Revival homes. Sprinkled among these were cozy bungalows and brick cottages, giving the area an eclectic but harmonious charm.
- Education at Its Heart: As Huntington flourished, so did its educational institutions. Southside Elementary School, first constructed in the early 20th century on Ninth Street, has educated generations of Huntingtonians. The growth of Marshall University, located along Fifth Avenue, brought academic vitality and diversity to the area.
- Religious and Cultural Anchors: Southside is home to some of the city’s oldest churches, including Highlawn Presbyterian at Twentieth Street and the St. George Greek Orthodox Church near Twelfth Avenue, each serving as pillars for their communities.
Landmarks That Tell a Story
Southside’s landscape is dotted with notable structures and green spaces, each with a story to tell.
- The Ritter Park Connection: Perhaps the crown jewel of Southside is beautiful Ritter Park, which hugs the southern edge of the neighborhood. Opened in 1913, the park was envisioned as a true urban oasis, with its graceful rose garden, flowing streams, and miles of walking trails. The park quickly became a beloved gathering space and remains a Southside icon today.
- The Historic Carnegie Library: Set near Ninth Street, the stately Carnegie Library opened in 1903. Its classic stone façade and welcoming steps have been a beacon for readers for generations—and is currently part of the Cabell County Public Library system.
- Architectural Gems: Grand old homes line Fourteenth Street West, while Eighth Avenue boasts rows of inviting porches and flowering magnolia trees. Many properties are listed in the National Register of Historic Places, testifying to Southside’s architectural significance.
How Southside Has Evolved
Through booms, busts, wars, and recovery, Southside has shown remarkable resilience and adaptability.
- Mid-Century Changes: Like many American neighborhoods, Southside felt the impact of World War II, with many young residents serving overseas and women entering the workforce. The 1950s and 1960s saw the construction of modern apartment complexes and new schools, while the spread of the automobile influenced road layouts and parking availability.
- Preservation and Renewal: In the late 20th century, community-driven preservation efforts helped safeguard Southside’s historic character. The formation of neighborhood associations promoted historic zoning, tree-planting, and sidewalk restoration. Ritter Park received crucial updates, and its rose garden was lovingly restored.
- Today’s Vibrant Community: Modern Southside is a vibrant mix of young families, lifelong residents, and Marshall students. Locally owned cafés, vintage shops, and cozy eateries dot the area—like the long-standing Jim’s Steak & Spaghetti House on Fifth Avenue, a local favorite since the 1930s. The annual Huntington Area Art Society fair, held in Ritter Park, brings arts and music to the green heart of Southside each year.
Streets, Parks, and Institutions: The Fabric of Southside
A stroll through Southside offers a living lesson in Huntington history. Some key places that define the neighborhood include:
- Ninth Street: Often called the “Gateway to Southside,” this thoroughfare is home to historic schools, houses of worship, and locally owned businesses.
- Ritter Park Rose Garden: A horticultural haven, blooming from late spring well into autumn, and a favorite backdrop for weddings, graduation photos, and family picnics.
- Marshall University: Bordering Southside to the north, it brings student energy, academic prestige, and world-class sporting events just a walk away.
A Neighborhood With a Story to Tell
From its stately old homes to the laughter of children playing in Ritter Park, Southside remains a living record of Huntington’s progress, pride, and promise. Its tree-shaded streets and vibrant spirit testify to the power of continuity and community. Whether you’re a newcomer drawn by its history or a lifelong resident savoring familiar scenery, Southside has a place for everyone—a timeless tale in the heart of the Jewel City.