Named after Revolutionary War hero Sergeant William Jasper, the city was incorporated in 1887 and has since become a hub of culture and outdoor activities. It serves as the county seat and is located in the heart of the Warrior Coal Fields, one of the nation's largest. Jasper experienced significant growth in the late 19th century, thanks to the completion of the Kansas City, Memphis and Birmingham Railroad. The city's industrial past is evident, with historic sites like the John Hollis Bankhead House and the First United Methodist Church. 

The city has been home to notable figures, including actors George Lindsey and Polly Holliday, as well as political luminaries like Carl Elliott, whose Elliott House Museum is a must-visit landmark. Elliott served in the U.S. House of Representatives and played a key role in bills like the Library Services Act and the National Defense Education Act. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do, from fishing and boating on Walker County Lake to enjoying water sports on Lewis Smith Lake. For golf lovers, the Jasper Disc Golf course offers excellent playing conditions.