Historic Markers; Florence, AL; Lauderdale County, AL
This historic marker is located at entrance to Florence Cemetery near US 72, Florence, Alabama. The text on the marker reads: "The notorious outlaw gang leader who boasted that no one would ever run over Tom Clark lies buried near the center of Tennessee Street where now all who pass by do run over him. In 1872, Clark, who terrorized helpless citizens during the Civil War, confessed to at least nineteen murders, including a child, and was hanged with two companions. Although graves were already dug in a nearby field, outraged townspeople interred Clark beneath Tennessee Street thus bring his boast to nought."
Dylan Tucker, University of North Alabama
“Mountain Tom Clark Marker”. Accessed 11/05/2015. http://www.lat34north.com/historicmarkersal/
Historic Markers; Killen, AL; Lauderdale County, AL
This historic marker is located at the intersection of U.S. 72, Killen, Alabama. The text on the marker reads: "Lock Six, headquarters of Muscle Shoals Canal, was located 1.3 miles south of here. An 1836 attempt to build a bypass canal around the shoals proved unsuccessful. On November 10, 1890 the canal from Rogersville to Florence was successfully completed. The river fell 85 feet in 14 1/2 miles requiring nine locks. Canal was closed in 1918 and later covered by backwaters from Wilson and Wheeler Dams. Jesse James robbed the U.S. Payroll near Lock Six in 1881."
“Muscle Shoals Canal Marker”. Accessed 11/04/2015. http://www.lat34north.com/historicmarkersal/
Original Site of FAME Recording Studio Marker
This historic marker is located at the intersection of Tennessee St and Seminary St, Florence, AL. The text on the side one of the marker reads: "This marks the site of the pioneering music company of Florence Alabama Music Enterprises (FAME), a name which became renowned worldwide is the home of the Muscle Shoals Sound. FAME was founded in the early 1960s by three young local entrepreneurs (Rick Hall, Billy Sherrell and Tom Stafford) who improvised a makeshift studio in a vacant room above the city drugstore that once stood here. FAME’S earliest recording sessions launched the careers of such music business legends as Arthur Alexander, Rick Hall, Billy Sherrell, Norbert Putman, David Briggs, Dan Penn, Spooner Oldham, and many others." Side two reads: "Following limited success, the partnership dissolved. Rick Hall took the publishing company and FAME name in return for the studio equipment. He relocated the studio to an empty tobacco warehouse in Muscle Shoals. His next recording of “You Better Move On”, by Arthur Alexander, was acclaimed as the Shoals first worldwide bestseller. Over the next several decades FAME recording studios became one of the most successful producers of rhythms in blues, pop and country music in the world. Rick Hall became known as the “Father of the Muscle Shoals Sound”. "
“Original Site of the FAME Recording Studio Marker”. Accessed 11/04/2015. http://www.lat34north.com/historicmarkersal/
Patton Elementary School (1891-1958) Marker
This historic marker is located on Dr. Hicks Boulevard, Florence, Alabama. The text on the marker reads: "First school in Florence Public school system built 1890 on land given by Governor Robert M. Patton. It was occupied in 1891. Designed originally to serve all white elementary school children of Florence. Usually served six grades divided into nine sections. The building was remodeled several times and also housed the Superintendents Offices. Cloakrooms, safety doors, fire escapes were added, and the third floor was removed in 1921. Ada Coffee, leading Alabama educator, joined the facility in 1896, and served as principal from 1910 to 1944. She established the first school lunchroom and parent teachers association in Florence. White children moved to JW Powell School in 1958 when the Negro high school burned. About 360 African American junior and senior high school students used the Patton building form January 5, 1959 until Burrell- Slater High school building was completed in 1960. The Building was razed, and grounds are now occupied by Florence Utility Department."
“Patton Elementary School (1891-1958) Marker”. Accessed 11/04/2015. http://www.lat34north.com/historicmarkersal/
Pesthouse and Cemetery / Pestilences Marker
This historic marker is located at the intersection of Wildwood Park Road and Waterloo Road, Florence, Alabama. The text on side one of the marker reads: "Following an outbreak of the dreaded plaque, smallpox (Variola), at Florence during the winter of 1865-66, the Board of Alderman adopted a resolution on January 2, 1866, that a Pesthouse be “erected at the vineyard as soon as possible.” According to tradition, this Pesthouse, believed to have been a simple two-room log structure, was located in this area where people with infectious diseases could be isolated from community. Also located nearby is a small cemetery where victims of these diseases were sometimes buried in unmarked graves." The text on side two read: "Prior to 20th Century During its early history, this area was faced with periods of infectious epidemics. One of the most feared was the small pox plague. It became a serious threat at the end of the Civil War, believed to have resulted from the frequent movements of troops here during the war. Yellow fever, a rare plague in the northern hemisphere, appeared here in the fall of 1878, resulting in 42 deaths in Florence. Four nurses from the Howard Association, a New Orleans charity organization, were sent here to assist with the sick and the dying."
“Pesthouse and Cemetery/Pestilence Marker”. Accessed 11/04/2015. http://www.lat34north.com/historicmarkersal/
This historic marker is located on 203 Hermitage Dr, Florence, AL. The text on side one of the marker reads: "Pope’s Tavern Museum is housed in a building that dates back to the early 1800s. According to legend Christopher Cheatham built and operated a tavern on this site for Leroy Pope in 1811. This was seven years before the founding of Florence in 1818. Archaeological evidence suggests that the original building was burned. Apparently part of the present building was erected in the 1820s. Since that time there have been numerous structural changes to meet changing needs for the building. While no firm evidence exists that this building was a tavern, there are several reasons to believe the legend. The present structure is certainly one of the oldest buildings in Florence and a prominent historical site. At various times the building served is the home of prominent families including Charles Cookin, a businessman and City Alderman, and Josiah Patterson, a prominent lawyer and his son, who later became governor of Tennessee." Side two reads: "During the Civil War the house was used as a hospital by Union and Confederate armies. It was first used as a hospital shortly after the Battles of Fort Henry and Fort Donelson and remained in fairly constant use after early 1862. Thirty-two soldiers died in the house and were buried in the old Florence Cemetery. Felix Grundy Lambeth, a postmaster in Florence, bought the house in 1874. It was occupied by the Lambeth family until 1965. When rumors circulated that the house was to be demolished, the Chamber of Commerce purchased the property and gave it to the City of Florence. The deed stipulated the city would maintain and preserve the building as a historic site and that it would be used as a museum. After extensive renovations of the building by the city and an extensive search for appropriate artifacts, the Pope’s Tavern Museum was opened to the public in 1968."
“Pope's Tavern Museum Marker”. Accessed 11/04/2015. http://www.lat34north.com/historicmarkersal/
This historic marker is located across the road from the Indian Mound Museum, on South Court Street, Florence, Alabama. The text on the marker reads: "This is the highest domiciliary mound in the Tennessee Valley. It was probably built between 100 B.C. and 400 A.D. by a prehistoric people of the ancient Woodland Culture. Such mounds served as bases for ceremonial temples or chief's houses. This mound, originally encircled by an earthen wall, contains no burials. It is 43 feet in height. Its base measurements are 310 feet by 230 feet. Its flat top measures 145 feet by 90 feet. Evidence indicates that nearby there were two smaller mounds, villages and cultivated fields."
“Prehistoric Mound Marker”. Accessed 11/04/2015. http://www.lat34north.com/historicmarkersal/
Prehistoric Native Americans / Historic Native Americans Marker
This historic marker is located in McFarland Park next to the Tennessee River on McFarland Park Road, Florence, Alabama. The text on side one reads: "This area near the mouth of Cypress Creek was inhabited by Archaic People as early as 8,000 B.C. Their main food consisted of freshwater mollusks from the river. (These mussels were the origin of the name "Muscle Shoals.") The Woodland and Copena Cultures, associated with the nearby large Florence Mound, arrived around 2,000 B.C. and remained almost 3,000 years. About 800 A.D. the Mississippian Civilization established villages here and on adjoining islands. Many of the Indian mounds in the Tennessee Valley were built by them." Side two reads: "For almost 300 years this area was the home of people known as Historic Indians. the first were the Euchees from the Great Lakes area. They were soon ousted by the Shawnees from the Ohio River. The Shawnee were evicted in 1715 A.D. by the Cherokees and Chickasaws. The Cherokees signed away their rights to this area in 1806. The Chickasaws held their claim until the Treaty of 1816. In the Summer of 1787, a skirmish occurred nearby between a party of Creeks and a company of militia from Nashville. The Creek Chief Bigfoot was killed."
“Prehistoric Native Americans/Historic Native Americans Marker”. Accessed 11/04/2015. http://www.lat34north.com/historicmarkersal/
This historic marker is located in Florence's Walk of Honor in River Heritage Park. The text on the marker reads: "In 1976, Fran McKee became the first woman line officer promoted to Rear Admiral in the U.S. Navy. A wide range of opportunities for women in the Navy is a result of her personal example and her work on the Navy's Equal Rights Committee."
“Rear Admiral Fran McKee Mrker”. Accessed 11/06/2015. http://www.lat34north.com/historicmarkersal/
This historic marker is located at the intersection of N. Seminary St. and E.Tuscaloosa St. on N. Seminary St., Florence, Alabama. The text on the marker reads: "This building which was completed in 1983 is an accurate replica of the local historical mansion known as The Forks of Cypress. The original mansion, completed in 1822 by James and Sarah Jackson on a knoll five miles from Florence Alabama, was struck by lighting and burned in 1966."
“Regions Bank Marker”. Accessed 11/06/2015. http://www.lat34north.com/historicmarkersal/
This historic marker is located in Florence's Walk of Honor in River Heritage Park. The text on the marker reads: "In his 14 years in the U.S. House of Representatives (1977-1991), Ronnie Flippo held such important post as the chairmanship of the Space Science Subcommittee during the development of the space shuttle, Columbia."
“Ronnie Gene Flippo Marker”. Accessed 11/06/2015. http://www.lat34north.com/historicmarkersal/
This historic marker is located at Florence's Walk of Honor in River Heritage Park. The text on the marker reads: "Known as the "Father of Rock and Roll," Sam Phillips established Sun Records in 1952, helping Elvis Presley and other well-known artist launch their careers. He received a Grammy for Lifetime Achievement in music."
“Samuel Cornelius Phillips Marker”. Accessed 11/06/2015. http://www.lat34north.com/historicmarkersal/
This historic marker is located on North Court Street, Florence AL. The text on the marker reads: "Named for Ferdinand Sannoner, who surveyed the town of Florence for the Cypress Land Company in 1818, the district contains twenty-five structures on North Court and North Pine Streets. Wealth planters, lawyers and merchants occupied the six fine antebellum homes: Courtview (1855) Gov. Edward Asbury O'Neal (1840's), Irvine Place (1843), Conner Place (1854), Wakefield (1820's) and Hickory Place (James Irvine's House 1832.) Other structures date from the late nineteenth century and early twentieth centuries."
“Sannoner Historic District”. Accessed 11/06/2015. http://www.lat34north.com/historicmarkersal/
Sannoner Historic District Medical Building
This historic marker is located on North Main Street north of East Tuscaloosa Street, Florence, Alabama. The text on the marker reads: "Built in 1826 in the Spanish Revival architectural style, this is the first structure in Florence erected with a steel skeleton supporting the floors, walls and roof. The framework is strong enough to support two more stories than were actually built. This building was individually listed in The National Register of Historic Places in 1976."
“Sannoner Histroric District Medical Building”. Accessed 11/09/2015. http://www.lat34north.com/historicmarkersal/
Scripture Relief Books and Learning Marker
This historic marker is located in front of Florence Public Library between E. Tuscalossa and E. Tombigbee Sts., Florence, Alabama. The text on the marker reads: "This sculpture relief was created by James W. Stoves and placed above the entrance to Gilbert Elementary School in 1921. In 1980, following the demolition of Gilbert school, it was moved to Hibbet Middle School. Because of its theme which relates to the teaching of children. it is now a part of the Florence/Lauderdale Public Library. Stoves left the Birmingham, Alabama coal mines to become a stoneworker and sculptor. He moved to Florence in 1913 and purchased the Florence Marble Works. Many of the monuments in the Florence Cemetery was sculptured by Stokes."
“Sculpture Relief Books and Learning Marker”. Accessed 11/09/2015. http://www.lat34north.com/historicmarkersal/
Seminary-O' Neal Historic District Marker
This historic marker is located on N Seminary St., Florence, Alabama. The text on the marker reads: "Named for the O’Neal family which produced two Alabama governors and for seminary the street on which Synodical Female College was located, the Seminary-O’Neal Historic District was added to the Nation Register of Historic Places in 1995. Built between 1908 and 1943, the houses in the district reflect the variety of architectural styles of those years. Two Sears~Roebuck houses called “American Four-Squares”, add interest and distinction. The district opens onto the impressive campus of the University of North Alabama."
“Seminary-O' Neal Historic District". Accessed 11/09/2015. http://www.lat34north.com/historicmarkersal/
Historic Marker; Florence, AL; Lauderdale County
This historical marker is located on South Magnolia Street, Florence, Alabama. The text on the marker reads: "This area is the military cemetery for Confederate Soldiers. After an 1862 skirmish in the streets of Florence, it was used to bury casualties until the end of the Civil War. Many unknown Confederates and a few unknown Union soldiers rest here. After the war it was reserved for Confederate veterans and their families. In 1977, the historic plot was deeded by the United Daughters of the Confederacy to insure its preservation and perpetual care."
“Soldier's Rest - 1862 Marker”. Accessed 11/09/2015. http://www.lat34north.com/historicmarkersal/
Historic Marker; Florence, AL; Lauderdale County, AL
This historic marker is located at the intersection of North Court Street and East Mobile Street, Florence, Alabama. The text on the marker reads: "Charles Morton Southall (1864-1952) constructed this Commercial Italianate style building in 1900 of the finest materials for his wholesale/retail drug business. The elegant interior by Charles Hester, New York City, contained the area's first rubber tile floor. In addition to health wares: window glass, paints, seeds, musical instruments and other sundries were dispensed. The building remained a pharmacy until 1979. In 1982 it was renovated by the Southall family and Byron Bower for combined commercial/residential use with John Mott, AIA, Ft. Smith, Arkansas, architect. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1980."
“Southall Drugs”. Accessed 11/06/2015. http://www.lat34north.com/historicmarkersal/
Southern Female University/Florence University for Women Marker
This historic marker is located on Seymore Avenue, Florence, Alabama. The text on side one of the marker reads: "The Southern Female University located in this vicinity was created in 1889 by Florence businessmen led by Judge William B. Wood and Alabama Baptist led by Rev. Dr. J.B. Hawthorne. The church connection was discontinued by a vote of the Alabama Baptist Association prior to opening date. The SFU was housed in a five-story Renaissance style building 220 feet long and 121 feet wide. It contained a chapel that could seat 750 people, sixteen recitation rooms, fifty bedrooms, a gymnasium, and thirty-eight classrooms. SFU opened on September 15, 1891, with 19 faculty members and about 125 students drawn from most Southern states. The students were offered five academic programs, three of which led to degrees, and two to certificates. Despite a successful first year, the University began the second year with major problems. It was located about one mile from downtown. Streets and sidewalks from Seven Points were unpaved, no streetcar service existed and the water supply was inadequate. On October 14, 1892, the University left Florence and moved to Birmingham which had offered significant support to encourage the move." The text on side two reads: "The SFU building stood vacant from 1892 to 1908. In the spring of 1908 N. C. Elting, Florence banker, announced that the Florence University for Women with a music conservatory would be established. The building was refurbished. A faculty was employed and a catalog was issued announcing that classes would begin in September. Fifty students enrolled the first day. The curriculum was a blend of old and new courses. Young ladies who wanted to prepare for the traditional role in the home could study classical and modern language, literature, music, art, elocution, history and science along with dressmaking, sewing, cooking, and household economics. Students who wanted to train for employment outside the home could take courses in teacher training, shorthand, typewriting, and bookkeeping. Eleven degrees and four certificates were granted at the end of the first year. A school annual The Varsity, was issued describing campus organizations including the YWCA, Tennis Club, Basketball Club, Kodak Club, Georgia Club and Fudge Club. The second year started with 112 students and additional faculty and courses. The third academic year began with great expectations but the University was permanently closed in early April 1911 when a fire burned the building and all equipment. Students were transferred to other institutions when no suitable replacement building could be found in Florence."
“Southern Female University/Florence University for Women Marker”. Accessed 11/06/2015. http://www.lat34north.com/historicmarkersal/
St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church Marker
This historic marker is located at the intersection of Burrell Street and White Street, Florence, Alabama. The text on the marker reads: "In early 1840s about 14 African-American members from First Methodist formed own congregation “Church Springs” near South Court Street. In 1857, a nearby brick cow shed was converted for its use under Rev. Robin Lightfoot who became a martyr during the Civil War. Site of American Missionary School after Emancipation. Organized as St. Paul AME in 1879. Relocated to Court and Alabama Streets in 1895. Charles B. Handy was early pastor and William W. Handy was early leader (father and grandfather to W.C. Handy.) St. Paul relocated again in 1968 to present site."
”St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church Marker". Accessed 11/09/2015. http://www.lat34north.com/historicmarkersal/
This historic marker is located at the intersection of Old Jackson Hwy and Co Rd 47, St. Florian, Alabama. The text on the marker reads: "In 1872, Father A. J. Houser, Director of the Homestead Society of Cincinnati, Ohio founded St. Florian. He subdivided the land for German immigrants who became independent landowners, built homes and reared their families. Many of the descendants from that small group of immigrants still live in the community, some in the original homes. Other descendants are scattered throughout the United States. The St. Florian Historic District was included in the Alabama Register of Landmarks and Heritage in September 2007."
“St. Florian Historic District Marker”. Accessed 11/09/2015. http://www.lat34north.com/historicmarkersal/
Historic Markers; St. Florian, AL; Lauderdale County, AL
This historic marker is located on Church Road (County Road 30) west of Old Jackson Highway (County Road 61), St Florian, Alabama. The text on the marker reads: "In 1872, Catholics of German ancestry settled on the former Wilson Plantation and established the town of St. Florian. St. Michael's Church was built south of the road, moved to the present site in 1878, and replaced the present building in 1916. The stained-glass windows, ordered from Munich, Bavaria, weren't installed until the 1920's. The rectory was built in 1872, burned and was rebuilt in 1934. The first pastor, Fr. Michael Merz, a German priest, died in 1876. He was replaced by Fr. Gabriel Guester, O.S.B. from Latrobe, Pennsylvania. Benedictine priest have served the parish since that time."
“St. Michael's Catholic Church Marker”. Accessed 11/06/2015. http://www.lat34north.com/historicmarkersal/
This historic marker is located at the intersection of Florence Boulevard (U.S. 43) and Sweetwater Avenue, Florence, AL. The text on the marker reads: "Home of Major John Brahan, veteran of War of 1812, Major General, Alabama Militia, who owned 4,000 acres here. Built of bricks made on the place, marble mantels imported from Italy, boxwood hedge from London. Named for spring nearby. Federals and Confederates quartered here at various times during the Civil War. Home of Brahan's son-in-law, Robert M. Patton, Governor of Alabama, 1865-1868."
“Sweetwater 1828 Marker”. Accessed 11/10/2015. http://www.lat34north.com/historicmarkersal/
This historic marker is located at the intersection of S. Court Street and Dr Hicks Blvd., Florence, Alabama. The text on side one of the marker reads: "The American Legion, an organization of U.S. War Veterans was founded in Paris, France, March 15~17, 1919 by delegates from combat and service units of the American Expeditionary Force assembled in response to a call by a committee headed by Lieutenant Colonel Theodore Roosevelt, Jr. A national charter was granted by Congress on September 16, 1919. The charter has been amended over the years to admit veterans of all American Wars to its membership. Nonsectarian and nonpolitical, the American Legion membership requirement is an honorable service and an honorable discharge." The text on side two reads: "On July 15, 1919, following a petition signed by fifteen charter members, the American Legion Post Number II, Florence, Alabama was organized, with Albert McFarland, commander, Bob Eastep, vice-commander, and George Bowen, adjutant. This post held its first meetings on West Tennessee Street, across from the location of the original court house. Construction of the original wing of this historic home of Post Number II, 318 South Court Street, commenced on March 15, 1936. This building is dedicated to the memory of those from Lauderdale County who paid the supreme sacrifice in World War I."
“The American Legion - 1919 Marker”. Accessed 11/10/2015. http://www.lat34north.com/historicmarkersal/
The Father of Rock 'N' Roll / Sam Phillips in Florence Marker
This historic marker is located at Hightower Pl., Florence, Alabama. The text on side one of the marker reads: "Sam Phillips fell in love with the miracle of sound and the unifying power of music. Moving to Memphis, Tennessee, he embraced the beauty of the blues with his early recordings of Howlin Wolf, B.B. King and other delta artists. In 1951 the maverick producer cut the first “Rock ’N’ Roll” record, “Rocket 88.” Three years later he revolutionized American music with his discovery of the dynamic Elvis Presley. His credo was passionate conviction, originality, and individuality in the extreme. His Sun Record label unleashed the earth shaking rule-breaking sounds of Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins, Jerry Lee Lewis, Roy Orbinson and Charlie Rich. “Rock ’N’ Roll is the freedom of the rhythm of the soul.” He once said, “And I was looking for that little piece of soul magic.” The text on side two reads: "Sam Phillips had a vision. It sprang from the land. It sprang from the river. Long after he had achieved fame and worldwide recognition he always spoke of Florence as the birthplace of his inspiration. He pointed towards the people he had grown up with, the family upbringing he had enjoyed, the freedom he had learned to cherish in Alabama. His great heroes were from the place of his birth and often of the humblest origins. He loved, as he always said, “the soil, the water, the trees, and the beautiful Tennessee River.” He learned from his father how to plow behind a mule, but he told the world to always seek that unplowed row."
“The Father of Rock 'N' Roll / Sam Phillips in Florence Marker”. Accessed 11/10/2015. http://www.lat34north.com/historicmarkersal/
This historic marker is located near the UNA Football Practice Field on Pine Street, Florence, Alabama. The text on the marker reads: "The University of North Alabama became the first school in the history of NCAA scholarship football to win three consecutive national championships (1993,1994,1995). Under Coach Bobby Wallace, UNA posted a 41~1 record over the same three ~ year period to become the first collegiate football team at any level to win as many as 40 games over a three ~ year period. UNA also became the first Division II school to win a football national championship on its home field in three consecutive games at Florence's Braly Municipal Stadium."
“The University of North Alabama Marker”. Accessed 11/10/2015. http://www.lat34north.com/historicmarkersal/
This historic marker is located in Florence's Walk of Honor located in River Heritage Park. The text on the marker reads: "In 1934, T.S. Stribling won the Pulitzer Prize for The Store, part of a trilogy set in Florence. His story "Birthright" was produced in Hollywood as a silent movie and, later, with sound. Inducted 2007."
“Thomas Sigismund Stribling Marker. Accessed 11/10/2015. http://www.lat34north.com/historicmarkersal/
This historic marker is located on J.C. Mauldin Highway west of Poplar Street, Killen, Alabama. The text on side one of the marker reads: "The area known as Killen in Lauderdale County, was settled in the early 1800s. In 1826, Joseph Mason was appointed the first postmaster of the new community called Masonville, later to become Killen. The post office existed until 1866. In the 1830s the construction of the Alabama Canal brought growth to the area. The canal was built to solve the navigation problems created by the shoals in the Tennessee River. Construction on the new canal began in 1875 and the 14 1/2 - mile canal, with nine locks with a lift of 85 feet, opened November 10, 1890. The canal was renamed the Muscle Shoals Canal. Lock six served as the headquarters and was located just 1/2- mile south of Killen. The canal system had a major economic impact on the development of Killen. Many of the citizens were employed on the canal and others supplied raw materials and food for the operation." The text on side two reads:"In 1885, 200 men were employed by the Corps of Engineers. Many of these men built homes near their work. In 1895, Mr. James Sharp Killen built a general store and applied for a post office. He sent in three possible names with the application and Killen was chosen. The post office opened on August 22, 1896 and the Town of Killen was founded. Killen was incorporated and established a police department in 1957. A fire department was started in 1962 and a town park was added in 1976. The town library was established in 1985. Killen has grown because of the good citizens of this community and the moral fortitude established by our local churches. The Killen Lions Club was chartered in 1957 and is a major community asset. Other sources of pride for the Killen area are Brooks Elementary, dating to 1908, and Brooks High School which opened in 1968."
“Town of Killen Marker”. Accessed 11/10/2015. http://www.lat34north.com/historicmarkersal/
Historic Markers; Waterloo, AL; Lauderdale County, AL
This historic marker is located on Main Street, Waterloo, Alabama. The text on the marker reads: "Thousands of Cherokee Indians passed through Waterloo in the 1830s when they were forced by the U.S. government to move West on the "Trail of Tears". Most came by boat from Tuscumbia and camped here to await transfer to larger steamboats. During the encampment several births, deaths, and escapes occurred. One party of 1,070 Cherokees traveled overland from Ross Landing in Tennessee due to low water in the upper river. Following the general route of U.S. Hwy. 72 to Florence, they arrived here July 10, 1838, in miserable condition after a 23~ day journey. About 17,000 Cherokees were driven from their homeland in the southern Appalachian Mtns. Most traveled by land thought Tennessee and on to Oklahoma. Great suffering and about 4,000 deaths occurred along the trail, especially during the winter of 1838-39."
“Trail of Tears Marker”. Accessed 11/11/2015. http://www.lat34north.com/historicmarkersal/
This historic marker is located on N. Pine Street at E Tuscaloosa St, Florence, Alabama. The text on the marker reads: "Episcopal services in Florence began in 1824. Rev. Thomas Armstrong Cook organized Trinity Episcopal Church in 1836. The original building, on the northwest corner of College and Cedar Streets, was consecrated Feb. 23, 1845, by Bishop Nicholas Hamner Cobbs. It burned in 1893, and this building was constructed in 1894, using the tower bell from the old church. Services have been held here since Easter Day, 1895. Building Consecrated by Bishop Richard Hooker Wilmer June 12, 1898. Parish Hall added in 1929. Education building and Mullen Hall erected 1967."
“Trinity Episcopal Church 1894 Marker”. Accessed 11/11/2015. http://www.lat34north.com/historicmarkersal/
This historic marker is located behind the Florence/Lauderdale Veterans Memorial on veterans Park Dr, Florence, AL. The text on the marker reads: "The following men from Lauderdale County made the supreme sacrifice for our Nation during the War with Vietnam: Jimmy Rex Ball • Chadwick McFall Barber • Howard Wayne Bramlett, Jr. • Paul O'Neal Brown • Edward Lee Brock • Roger Jerrell Bryant • Virgil L. Castle • Phillip Don Childers • Samuel Earl Coker • Thomas Cotten • Charles Edward Cox • James Larry Evans • Joel Wayne Forrester • Richard J. Glenn • Jerry Dewayne Hill • James Dale Hodges • Alfred W. Hubbard • Jerry Reed Johnson • Albert J. Jones • Felix D. King, Jr. • Robert Burton LeCates • Larry Luster • George Thomas Mangrum • Robert Lee McCaig • Danny Albert McGee • James Daniel McKelvey • William Newton McMurtery • Don Leslie Michael • Donald Lee Montgomery • John Runyon Neary, II • Charles Terry • Jimmy Lee Thompson • Gary Frank Wallace."
“Vietnam War Memorial Marker”. Accessed 11/11/2015. http://www.lat34north.com/historicmarkersal/
This historic marker is located on North Walnut Street near East Tuscaloosa Street, Florence, Alabama. The text on the marker reads: "Walnut Street began as a residential area in the national economic boom of the 1880s and 1890s and continued its development through the 1920s. Industries and businesses grew in Florence, the population of the city increased, and business and professional people built their homes in this typical residential neighborhood. The street remains intact and reflects the changes in architectural styles form 1890s Victorian to the 1920s bungalow. The district was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1977."
“Walnut Street Historic District Marker”. Accessed 11/11/2015. http://www.lat34north.com/historicmarkersal/
Waterloo - Settled 1819 - Incorporated 1832 Marker
This historic marker is located at the entrance of Waterloo on Hwy 14, Waterloo, Alabama. The text on the marker reads: "One of Alabama's oldest incorporated towns. Waterloo was an important Tennessee river ports during the steamboat ear. In low~ water season after large boats from Louisville, Cincinnati and other places downriver unloaded here: smaller craft transported goods and passengers upriver to Florence at the foot of the Muscle Shoals. Following a disastrous flood in 1847, the town was moved from its location on the riverbank, now under Pickwick Lake, to present higher ground. Union gunboats shelled it July 1862. Gen. William T. Sherman crossed the river here, November 1863, and made temporary headquarters in Dr. O.B. Sullivan's home."
”Waterloo - Settled 1819 - Incorporated 1832". Accessed 11/11/2015. http://www.lat34north.com/historicmarkersal/
This historic marker is located at the intersection of N. Broadway Street and Mahogany Ave, Florence, Alabama. The text on the marker reads: "This Twentieth century business and residential area was developed by John D. Weeden Jr. during the building of Wilson Dam and the World War I Defense Plants. Weeden Heights was carved from 3,800-acre Sweetwater Plantation, the former home of his grandfather, Governor Robert M. Patton. The slave village, with its 23 small cabins facing a community square, was located north of the Broadway Recreation Center. An unmarked slave cemetery is nearby. In 1871 the Pattons gifted a 25-acre farm in this area to a former slave. Edmund Patton. 'In consideration of his faithfulness and fidelity'."
“Weeden Heights - Early 1900s Marker”. Accessed 11/11/2015. http://www.lat34north.com/historicmarkersal/
This historic marker is located in front of Wesleyan Bell next to Wesleyan Hall on the UNA campus, Florence, Alabama. The text on the marker reads: "The Wesleyan Bell was manufactured by the C.S. Bell Company in Hillsboro, Ohio, it is made of alloy steel, has a diameter of 38 inches, and is 24 inches high (not including its yoke). The weight of the bell is 660 pounds. When 350- pounds mountings are added, the total weight is 1,010 pounds. The bell was mounted atop Wesleyan Hall after the school was donated to the state by the Methodist Church in 1873, at which time the school became State Normal College. The bell was used to call students to class, for ceremonial purposes, and other uses. Around 1910, the bell was removed from Wesleyan Hall and placed in storage. In 1951, the bell was discovered and unsuccessful efforts were made by alumni to display it on campus. During the summer of 2002, the 130-year-old Wesleyan Bell was rediscovered after having been in storage for over 90 years. Construction of the Smith Bell Tower began in March of 2003, and was completed during the summer of 2004. The Smith Bell Tower, present home of the Wesleyan Bell, was dedicated during a ceremony on September 17, 2004."
“Wesleyan Bell Marker”. Accessed 11/11/2015. http://www.lat34north.com/historicmarkersal/
This historic marker is located on Cramer Way, Florence, Alabama. The text on the marker reads: "Chartered 1856 as Florence Wesleyan University, R.H. Rivers, President. Regarded as North Alabama's most eminent landmark, this Gothic Revival Structure was designed by Adolphus Heiman, Nashville, And built by Zebulon Pike Morrison, Florence, as new home for LaGrange College (organized 1830 by Methodists). Used by both armies at various times during Civil War. Deeded to State of Alabama, 1872, as first coeducational teacher training institution south of Ohio River. School expanded to become University of North Alabama in 1974. Listed National Register of Historic Places."
“Wesleyan Hall Marker”. Accessed 11/11/2015. http://www.lat34north.com/historicmarkersal/
Wilson's Headquarters and Camp - Gravelly Springs, Alabama Marker
This historic marker is located at the intersection of County Route 14 and County Route 2, Waterloo, Alabama. The text on the marker reads: "At this site from mid-January to mid-March 1865, Maj. Gen. James Harrison Wilson, U.S. Army, assembled the largest cavalry force ever massed in the western hemisphere. Five divisions totaling 22,000 camped from Gravelly Springs westward to Waterloo. Wilson made headquarters a mile east of the springs at Wildwood plantation, the boyhood home of Alabama senator and governor, George Houston. After intensive training Wilson's Cavalry crossed the Tennessee to invade South Alabama and Georgia, a campaign which included burning the University of Alabama at Tuscaloosa and the capture of Pres. Jefferson Davis at Irwinville, Georgia, in May 1865, after Lee's surrender."
“Wilson's Headquarters and Camp - Gravelly Springs, Alabama Marker”. Accessed 11/11/2015. http://www.lat34north.com/historicmarkersal/
Cemeteries; Waterloo, AL; Lauderdale County, AL
From Florence, take the Waterloo road and go to Waterloo. Then take the Pea Ridge Road for about seven miles, turn left at the first paved cross roads. Go for about three miles until the road comes to a "T", turn left and go almost to the edge of the water. There are a few small creeks that cross the dirt road. An off-road vehicle may be recommended to travel to this cemetery. The cemetery is on the left side of the road. There may be more unmarked graves than there are marked graves in this cemetery.
Dylan Tucker, University of North Alabama.
Curtis, Janet. "Wates-Shaw Cemetery." Rootsweb. January 1, 1970. http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~allauder/cem-wateshaw.htm. Accessed April 14, 2015.
Murphy's Chapel Cemetery is located ½ mile east of Alabama Highway 20, on Lauderdale County Road 8 at Murphy's Chapel Free Will Baptist Church northwest of Florence, Alabama. The oldest known grave is that of a Confederate soldier buried in 1861. A woman by the name of Katie K. Jones is the oldest known person buried here, having been born in 1792. Some graves are probably much older than those listed. There are war veterans from the Civil War to the Korean War. The cemetery has a record of 738 graves. A full list of graves is located in the source.
Montgomery, David L. "Murphy's Chapel." Rootsweb. January 5, 2005. http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~allauder/cem-murphychapel-2005.htm. Accessed April 7, 2015.
Cemeteries; Florence, AL; Lauderdale County, AL
Established in 1818, Florence Cemetery was the first city cemetery. The marker reads, "When the city was surveyed, this land described as 'outside city limits' was designated as the burying grounds for the new town. It contains the graves of early settlers, including a son and brother of Ferdinand Sannoner, surveyor of Florence, and served as the principal cemetery for over 130 years. Two former governors of Alabama from the O'Neal family, as well as many prominent community leaders, are interred here. "Soldier's Rest", a Confederate Cemetery is located near the south property line. This cemetery is massive and contains over 9,000 records. It is divided into 26 sections.
McCord, Timothy. "Florence City Cemetery." Rootsweb. August 2001. http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~allauder/cem-florence1.htm. Accessed April 2, 2015. "Florence Cemetery -1818." Latitude 34 North. http://www.lat34north.com/historicmarkersal/MarkerDetail.cfm?KeyID=39-057&MarkerTitle=Florence%20Cemetery%20%3F%20-1818-. Accessed April 11, 2015.
Historic Buildings; Athens, AL; Limestone County, AL
The Old Main Post Office in Athens, Alabama was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. Also known as Washington Street Courthouse Annex, the Neoclassical building was constructed in 1933 by the Works Progress Administration. The lobby of the post office features marble floors and door trim. In 1979 the post office was converted to a courthouse annex.
National Register Information System. Accessed August 5, 2015.
2005.36.681: E. Randolph Jones to Dr. R. M. Young, 1856 May 8
May 8, 1856; E. Randolph Jones; Hendersonville, North Carolina, Dr. R. M. Young; Cartersville, Cass County, Georgia
E. Randolph Jones writing a thank you letter to Dr. R.M. Young for past letters and sending money to take care of his trial. Ask Dr. Young to attend his trial during the last week of May at Rutherfordton, North Carolina. Jones is writing letters to all of his friends that may be of service for his trial. He also asks Dr. Young to speak to a brother John, if he is still with Dr. Young, about Jones and attending his upcoming trial.
Bartow History Museum Auburn History Department
Matthew Robinson Auburn History Department
2005.36.81:E. Randolph Jones to Dr. Robert Young, 8 May 1856
1856; Transcription; Walnut Grove, GA; E.C. Young; Son; Health; Bereavement; Ambrotype; Grandmother; George; Fort Gaines; Sister; Family Life
This four-page handwritten letter from E.C. Young to his unidentified son, presumably P.M.B. Young, offers the author's condolences on the death of a friend at the military academy. He also comments on the well-being of the family and the hope that his son will return to visit soon.
P.M.B. Young Collection, Bartow History Museum
Transcription; 1860; Etowah; Georgia; Dr. Jones; E.H. Hicks; Mrs. Angelica Cooper; Josie; Illness; Fever;
Hicks asked Dr. Jones to come take care of a child that was left with her. One handwritten page.
This video was taken from Eagle Eye TV's YouTube channel from 2025 that covers the student organization's role in their media coverage
Architectural drawings; Watercolors; Houses; Dwellings; Doors & doorways; Windows; Shutters; Trellises; Porches; Columns; Roofs; Stairways; Woodwork; Hand railings; Women; Trees; Landscapes (Representations)
This image is a watercolor painting of the Holliday-Cary Home, also known as the Holliday-Carey House or the Cary-Pick House, in Auburn, Alabama done by Harold W. Eaton in 1933. The home was built in 1852 by Shelton. The painting shows the front exterior of the house with its doors, windows, shutters, trellises, second story columned porch, steps, and peaked roof surrounded by trees and landscaping. There is a woman in period dress at the foot of the steps. The house is placed within framing art showing its architectural features including the floor plan, various scales, and an interior wooden staircase. In the lower right corner, there is an Alabama Polytechnic Institute School of Architecture stamp with a handwritten inscription "2nd Medal" and the artist's information block which reads: "Harold W. Eaton, Alabama Polytechnic Institute, Arch 476 'measured drawing,' May 13, 1933." The painting is in fair condition with minor edge wear and is encapsulated.
Eaton, Harold W. (rendering); Turner, Matthew (house)
Auburn University Libraries. Special Collections and Archives Dept. Architecture, School of -- Architectural Renderings Student Projects
This image is the property of the Auburn University Libraries and is intended for non-commercial use. Users of the image are asked to acknowledge the Auburn University Libraries. For information about obtaining high-resolution copies of this and other images in this collection, please contact the Auburn University Libraries Special Collections & Archives Department at archive@auburn.edu or (334) 844-1732.
Library of Congress (Historic American Buildings Survey): http://www.loc.gov/item/al0279/ ; Alabama Department of Archives and History: http://digital.archives.alabama.gov/cdm/ref/collection/photo/id/2328
Auburn -- Lee County -- Alabama ; 360 North College Street, Auburn, Lee County, AL
Promotional Graphic for the ISO Peace Dinner 2018 (Original Graphic Created 2014)
Students burning copies of the Glomerata at Plainsman Park on the campus of Auburn University
Hundreds of students participated to protest the new edition of the yearbook, which they felt overrepresented the presence and influence of hippie culture at the school.
Alabama Department of Archives and History
2005.36.187: Elizabeth Caroline Young to P.M.B. Young, 1858 August 20
1858; P.M.B. Young; Elizabeth Carolina Young; Religion; After-life; Religious revival; Religious conversion; Death
Young’s mother is writing him to congratulate and also express her excitement concerning Young’s complete conversion to Christianity. The letter goes into detail describing the importance of accepting “the Redeemer” into one’s life.