Erosion; Colbert County; Alabama; farmers; TVA
The main goal of the TVA was to produce fertilizer to help the Tennessee Valley residents improve their soil. The fertilizer was made in Nitrate Plant No. 2 in Colbert County. By having a steady source of fertilizer the TVA was able to start experimenting on how to help improve the impoverished, eroded farms. With agriculture being the main source of income and livelihood for many people, the land became stripped of essential nutrients after planting of the same crop over and over. Top soil started to wash away with every rain making it harder and harder to produce crops, mainly cotton. The TVA was needed to improve these awful conditions. It is estimated up to 85% of the farm-able land was eroded by 1930. The scientists at the TVA came up with efficient ways to add fertilizer, full of nitrates, to impoverished farmland. Before the TVA, few farmers had the means to add fertilizer to their lands, as this required growing less produce and limiting their already meager income. Many of the restored farmlands became grazing fields for livestock, rather than to continue planting crops.
Carrie Keener, University of North Alabama
McCarthy, Dennis M. 1983. The First Fifty Years: Changed Land, Changed Lives: State Of The Environment Of The Tennessee Valley. Knoxville: Tennessee Valley Authority.
Colbert County Alabama; Sheffield Alabama; Negro Recreation Center; Michael Center; African American Recreation; African American History
The Negro Community Recreation Center was built in the 1950s strictly for African American use in Sheffield, Alabama. The cost of the Negro Recreation Center was reported to be S80,000. Alongside the new community center a pool was built. The building was later officially known as the Michael Center. The center was used to host parties and sports and general community activities and needs.
David McCarthy, "New $80,000 Negro Community Center Nearing Completion In Sheffield," unidentified newspaper in Sheffield Public Library, October 2, 1955
Colbert County Alabama; Listerhill Alabama; Metal's Terrace; War Housing Project Ala 1213; African American Housing; African American History
Metal’s Terrace was a project initiated to provide housing for African American workers in the Shoals. This was also known as the War Housing Project Ala 1213. This housing was to be used strictly for African Americans. It became ready to house African American workers in 1944 during the Second World War. As such, the workers were also referred to as war workers. The project was given 32 acres of land to build housing for the African American war workers. The project managed to complete 48 buildings with around 36 of the serving as actual housing units. The project very much resembles a village as goods and services were also provided for the workers in the form of barbershops, stores, and a community center. The project was completed in year with the original construction date as August 24, 1943. Construction was finished a year later in 1944. The buildings were located across the street from Reynolds Metals in Listerhill, Alabama.
"Negro Housing Project Ready For Occupancy," unidentified newspaper, in Sheffield Public Library. Feb 4, 1944.
Bettie Ann Highway, Lauderdale County, Alabama: Historic Markers
The Bettie Ann Highway was once the home to a thriving farming community that included Toonersville and Whitehead. The text from the historical marker offers description of how the road came to be named: The home-place of Bettie Anne Springer-Thornton lies 1.6 miles north on the east side of Lauderdale County Road 51. This home was originally a one-room log cabin, built between 1892 and 1894 by Levi Patrick Thornton. Two rooms and a dog-trot were added prior to 1905. The home was razed and rebuilt in 1945, excluding the south room which remained intact. Bettie Anne Springer, daughter of William Marion Springer (1833-1884) and Rutha Jane Oldham (1826-1896), was born November 17, 1859, in Brooksville, Mississippi, and died May 6, 1932. Bettie Anne was affectionately called “Aunt Bett” by family and friends alike. She donated a portion of property for the construction of the highway, and her son, Samuel Beaver Thornton, donated land for the Old Mt. Bethel Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Levi Patrick Thornton, son of William Henry Thornton (1817-1855) and Sarah Rowsey-Burt (1814-1893), was born August 3, 1850 , in Lauderdale County, Alabama, and died May 14, 1915. Levi and Bettie Anne were married on February 8, 1876, and had twelve children. They are buried in the Ingram-Thornton Cemetery in Good Springs (old Thorntontown). Sponsored by Thornton Family Descendants and Benefactors [2009: Co. Rd. 5 at Co. Rd. 568, Rogersville]
Pam Kingsbury< University of North Alabama
Pam Kingsbury, University of North Alabama
Bettie Ann Highway, Lauderdale County, Alabama; Rural Community
North Alabama Abstract & Guaranty Company
Historic Buildings; Businesses; Tuscumbia Historic District; Downtown Tuscumbia; Clark House; Colbert County; Colbert County Courthouse; Alabama
The building that currently houses the North Alabama Abstract is known as the Clark Building. It is a part of the Colbert County Courthouse Square Historic District. The district is part of the National Register of Historic Places. This brick building was built in 1926. The photo of the old smokehouse is taken from behind the building.
Jacob Grandstaff, University of North Alabama
"Colbert County Courthouse Square Historic District," Accessed December 7, 2015, http://www.digplanet.com/wiki/Colbert_County_Courthouse_Square_Historic_District.
Historic Businesses; Historic Restaurants; Fifties Diner; Sheffield; Tuscumbia; Colbert County; Alabama
Southland, located at 1309 S. Jackson Highway in Sheffield was founded in 1950 primarily as a BBQ place and evolved over the years to offer a more diversified menu. In 2012, the building that housed Southland was bought by Steve Gaskins who now owns and operates Stephano's. However, the original Southland sign still remains. Stephano's offers a wide variety of dishes and combinations, ranging from popular Italian dishes, to local favorites like BBQ and freshly-made desserts. Stephano's has kept many of the same dishes and combinations from Southland's menu.
Hisotoric Buildings; Historic Business; Commercial Row; Tuscumbia; Colbert County; Alabama; Women's Clothing Store
The building that now houses Audie Mescal Womens Clothing is one of the oldest commercial buildings in Colbert County, belonging to the original seven buildings that made Commercial Row in the 1830s. It was in this building that Helen Keller's father, Arthur H. Keller edited his newspaper, "The North Alabamian."
Colbert County Tourism, December 4, 2015.
Historic Businesses; Sheffield; Colbert County; Alabama, Hardware; Historic Buildings
Sheffield Hardware is located directly across from the Sheffield Library at 309 North Montgomery Avenue. The building was built in 1896 and became the original Sheffield Hardware in 1898. In the 1930's, the building became McClellan's Five and Dime Store until the 70's. It was largely unoccupied except for storage until the owners of the new Sheffield Hardware renovated the building in 2014. The historic building opened once again for business in 2015.
Conversation with store manager, December 5, 2015
Historic Businesses; Seed Store; Tuscumbia; Colbert County, Alabama
According to the current owner of Coldwater Seed and Supply, it is one of the oldest, continually-operating seed stores in Alabama. It was founded in 1930.
Historic Theathers; Silent Movies; Silent Theaters; Tuscumbia; Colbert County; Alabama; Historic Businesses; Main Street; Tuscumbia Historic District
The Bijou Theater was the first silent theater in Colbert County. It was a short-lived Mexican restaurant named Loco Lupe's in the early 2000's. The building is currently vacant.
Colbert County Tourism, December 4, 2015. Kevin, Carter, "Give your Taste Buds a Treat at Loco Lupe's," Times Daily, June 19, 2004.
Lauderdale County; Florence, Alabama; Florence History; Recreation; Ferdinand Sannonner; Woodrow Wilson
Wilson Park was designated as a public walk by Ferdinand Sannoner in his original plan for Florence in 1818. It is a one square block with an area of 2.5 acres. On February 20, 1924, the Board of City Commissioners officially changed its name from City Park to Woodrow Wilson Park in honor of the former U.S. President following his death. The park underwent two renovations, one in 1930 paid for by Mrs. Mary Emily Savage Price and the other one occurring on August 15, 1973. It was in the 1973 redevelopment that a plaza was constructed with a fountain being donated by the Douglass family and benches incorporated throughout the park. The updates to the park were completed in 1974.
Andrew Lopez, University of North Alabama
United States. Wilson Park Alabama Register of Landmarks and Heritage Nomination Form. Alabama Historical Commission. University of North Alabama Archives. Image: University of North Alabama Archives, Postcard Collection, PC22
O'Neal Hall, University of North Alabama
Lauderdale County, Alabama; Florence, Alabama; Education; Florence State College; University of North Alabama; Edward A. O'Neal
O’Neal Hall was the “The Dormitory for Women” at the Florence State College, known now as the University of North Alabama. Completed and occupied by September 1st, 1913, the total cost of the building was $91,000. At its time, it was one of the best equipped dormitories in the South. A beautiful brick structure with stone trimmings, O’Neal Hall was located on Wesleyan Avenue, overlooking the campus, facing Wesleyan Hall and the Annex. O’Neal Hall received its name after Edward A. O’Neal, president of the Alabama Farm Bureau in 1930. The 4-story building was constructed to board 125 students. In addition to bedrooms, baths, and other usual dormitory facilities, O’Neal Hall consisted of a cafeteria on the first floor, a reception hall, a lounge, and offices. O’Neal Hall was unfortunately torn down to accommodate room for the expansion of a Student Union Building, but the steps that once lead to O’Neal Hall are still visible from Wesleyan Avenue. The dormitory was located where the University of North Alabama’s Guillot University Center stands today.
Megan Statom, University of North Alabama
"Buildings." In Bulletin of the State Normal School, 10. 2nd ed. Vol. 3. Florence, AL: State Normal School, Florence, Ala., 1914. Images: UNA Archives, University Photo Collection, File: University. Architecture. ONeal, Photo# O.1. “O’Neal Hall.” UNA.edu. www.una.edu/historicUNA/oneal-hall.html (accessed November 11, 2015)
University of North Alabama, President's Home
Education; WPA; Great Depression; University of North Alabama; Lauderdale County, Alabama; Florence, Alabama
The President’s Home is located on the University of North Alabama campus. Ground was broken for this building in August 1939 when the university was under the name Florence State Teachers College. The Works Progress Administration completed the building in 1940. The original location was on Seminary Street and Morrison Street, facing Seminary. The home, a two-story brick building, was meant to correspond and compliment the surrounding campus architecture. In Shoals Magazine the interior of the house is described: “The front door enters into a central hall with a high ceiling, hardwood floors and a staircase with a U-shaped landing leading to the more private rooms. Branching from the hall are the dining room on the left and living room on the right-one complimenting the other […]” (Allen). The original pastel paint used for the walls was mixed by Mrs. Keller, the wife of President J.A. Keller. The university president, President J. A. Keller, stated that ‘it will be modest, but modern”. Though the internal décor has been changed and modified throughout the years that same concept has been kept. Once the building was complete, the university president and his family occupied the residence. This tradition has been continued by most university presidents since. The President’s Home has also gained a great deal of attention throughout its many years of being a gracious host to many social functions. The first great event held by the house was in May 1940, as documented in a news paper article. It stated that the home was opened to the graduating sophomores and faculty of Florence State Teachers College. This Sophomore Tea lead the way for all the many parties and social gathering the house holds today.
Katherine Rickard, University of North Alabama
Allen, Sherhonda, "Stately Oasis of Color," Archives and Special Collections, Collier Library, University of North Alabama, Florence, Alabama "Handsome New President’s Home at STC Thrown Open to Faculty and Students", Flor-Ala, Archives and Special Collections, Collier Library, University of North Alabama, Florence, Alabama New Building at STC Ready for Fall Term, Flor-Ala, Archives and Special Collections, Collier Library, University of North Alabama, Florence, Alabama "Presidents’ Home Open to Students, Faculty, Campus Social Events", Archives and Special Collection, Collier Library, University of North Alabama, Florence, Alabama Shoals Magazine 2006, Archives/Special Collection, Collier Library, University of North Alabama, Florence, Alabama
Lauderdale County; Florence AL; Education; Recreation; University of North Alabama
Flowers Hall first opened in 1972 and still continues to be used today. It is the home court for the volleyball team and the men’s and women’s basketball teams. It was named after Hubert A. “Eddie” Flowers, who was a long time head of the physical education and athletic programs. He was also the basketball program’s first coach. Flowers Hall was a great addition to the university because it gave them a great athletic facility costing approximately three million dollars. It has a seating capacity of 4,000 with both floor and upper level seating. The Flowers Hall Annex renovation added 17,800 square feet and cost one and a half million dollars. Flowers hall is a four level structure with the gym being on the third floor. It includes more than just a site for athletic events. It contains offices, class rooms, locker rooms, and special facilities for athletic training. It is also used for educational and recreational purposes. Flowers Hall is located on 615 North Pine Street in Florence, Alabama.
Jackson Newton, University of North Alabama
Greer, Tyler. “Gymnasium not just used for basketball”, University of North Alabama Archives. (Newspaper Clipping) Florence State University Yearbook 1972, University of North Alabama Archives. Thomas, Ronald. “Flowers fought long and hard for athletics”, University of North Alabama Archives. (Newspaper Clipping) University of North Alabama Basketball Guide 1974-75, University of North Alabama Archives . Images: University of North Alabama Archives and Special Collections
Colbert County, Alabama; Tuscumbia, Alabama; Native American; Early Settlement
In 1815, Michael Dickson and a group of white settlers sailed in a keel-boat down the Tennessee River and up Spring creek, settling where Spring Park is now. Dickson purchased this land from the Indian chief Tashka-Ambi for two pole axes and five dollars in cash. Tuscumbia, formally known as Ococoposa, was renamed in 1822 in honor of the Indian Chief. Spring Park was originally named Big Springs, but was renamed in the 1920’s. In 1817, Spring Park had 3 dwellings, a mill, and a store. Today, the park contains a two story open air shelter, several single story shelters, a large playground, a train, a carousel, a python roller coaster, and a splash pad. The largest man made natural stone waterfall is also located here, standing at 40’ tall and 80’ wide. 4,320,000 gallons of water pass over the falls a day into the lake. The lake also features a fountain in honor of Princess Im-Mi-Ah-Key, wife of Chief Tashka-Ambi. The fountain contains 51 jets, 1 shooting 100’ in the air in the middle and the 50 others shoot 40-50’ high. It is also choreographed to lights and music each Friday, Saturday, and Sunday night at dusk. The water from the spring supplies the town of Tuscumbia, AL. It steadily stays at a temperature of 36 to 38 degrees year round. Many events have taken place at Spring Park and still do today. Federal troops camped on these grounds during the Civil War, and Jimmy Carter initiated his campaign to run for a second term at Spring Park on September 1, 1980. Today the Oka Kapassa festival is held at Spring Park. Oka Kapassa is a Native American gathering dedicated to celebrating the culture and traditions of the Native Americans who thrived in North Alabama. Other events include the Labor Day Festivities, Muscle Shoals Street Rod Run, and the annual Tuscumbia Fair.
Katie McVey, University of North Alabama
Mary Jane McDaniel, Historic Muscle Shoals: Buildings and Sites (Tennessee Valley Historical Society), 29. “Know Your State- Tuscumbia,” The Benjamin News, October 31, 1948. Thomas F. Hill, “Tuscumbia’s Big Spring.” Google. http//www.google.com/springpark.html Brent Moore. Flickr.com, “Cold Water Falls- Tuscumbia” Picture, Tuscumbia, Alabama, June 16, 2012.
Colbert County Reporter / Standard & Times
Historic Newspapers; Historic Businesses; Commercial Row,;Tuscumbia; Colbert County, Alabama; Standard and Times; Colbert County Reporter; Tuscumbia Historic District
The Standard & Times was founded in 1829. The building still stands at 106 W 5th Street as part of the original seven buildings that comprised the historic Commercial Row where it continues to serve as a newspaper office for the Colbert County Reporter. The original printing press of the Standard and Times still sits in the back of the Colbert County Reporter, along with other vintage printing equipment (see photos).
Muscle Shoals Sound; Sheffield; Tennessee River; Colbert County; Alabama; James Brown; Joan Baez; Jimmy Buffet; Bob Dylan; The Oak Ridge Boys; Julian Lennon; Melissa Etheridge; Little Milton
Cypress Moon Studio is located at 1000 Alabama Avenue in Sheffield. The studio overlooks the Tennessee River. There is parking with picnic tables right across from the studio by the river. The Muscle Shoals Sound Studio moved from its original location at 3614 Jackson Highway in Sheffield to this building in 1978. The building belonged formerly to the Naval Reserve before the Muscle Shoals Sound Studio converted it into a multi-studio complex. Many of the most important recording artists of the era created their gold and platinum records here, including James Brown, Joan Baez, Jimmy Buffet, Bob Dylan, The Oak Ridge Boys, Julian Lennon, Melissa Etheridge and Little Milton. The building now houses a film production company, but the historic recording studio is still in use.
"Cypress Moon Studio," Natchez Trace Parkway, http://www.scenictrace.com/cypress-moon-studio/.
Once the TVA was formed during the New Deal, men were needed to work on building Wilson Dam and to work in the Nitrate Factory No. 2. Many of these men were a part of the Civilian Conservation Corps, or CCC. Many of the original workers were being relocated from the Northwestern United States. The first groups of men established camps to live in while they were working for the TVA. These campsites eventually became known as the Nitrate Villages. The men's jobs included preventing erosion, working on the dam, planting saplings, and working on building the nitrate factory.These men were soon introduced to educational training in April of 1936. This training focused on business, soil conservation, agriculture, mechanics, journalism, radio, first aid, and practical science. For those who needed it, basic education on reading and writing was also taught to the men in the camps.
Carle, J.F. 'US Nitrate Plant No. 2, Muscle Shoals, Alabama'. Paper. Florence. William Lindsey McDonald Collection. UNA Special Archives. 'FDR, TVA, And CCC Federal Influence In The Shoals: The Journal Of Muscle Shoals History Volume XIX'. 2015. Florence. William Lindsey McDonald Collection. UNA Special Archives. KIng, Gail. 2010. 'Wilson Village No. 2 1918-1950'. Book. Florence. William Lindsey McDonald Collection. UNA Special Archives. 'Sheffield History And Recollections: Journal Of Muscle Shoals History Volume XVIII'. 2011. Florence. William Lindsey McDonald Collection. UNA Special Archives.
Big Spring; Colbert County; Tuscumbia, Alabama; Park
Big Spring was once a popular baptizing place for people in the area. It often flooded and was home to many grazing animals. Many pictures exist of the spring before it was controlled. The site is now used for hosting festivals for the city of Tuscumbia. There are picnic tables and pavilions for use around the park. The spring travels the whole length of the park, as well. There are resturants and small rides for children. Fishing, with a small fee, is also allowed in the spring.
Alabama's Official Travel Guide,. 2015. 'Spring Park - Tuscumbia - Alabama.Travel'. http://alabama.travel/places-to-go/spring-park.
The Robert Trent Golf trail is a collection of golf courses across Northern Alabama.The head of the Retirement Systems of Alabama, Dr. David Bronner wanted to help the state of Alabama develop resources to support retired state workers. He decided to build 26 golf courses across 11 sites in Alabama. His goal was to attract retirees to bring in revenue for the state. He wanted golf courses that combined quality and value. Robert Trent Jones Jr., the namesake of the trail, was the main architect behind the courses. The trails each flow with their surrounding topography, instead of being fabricated. Each pose a challenge for any level of golfer. The trail is managed by Sunbelt Gold Corporation.
RTJ Golf,. 2015. 'RTJ Golf Trail - Explore The Trail'. https://www.rtjgolf.com/trail/.
Rose Trail is a RV and campground located on Pickwick lake and reservoir. Pickwick Reservoir is a lake created by the Pickwick Dam in Tennessee. Construction began in 1934. The lake is under the jurisdiction of the TVA. It extends for 53 miles from Tennessee to the Alabama- Mississippi border. The dam, and resulting lake were completed in 1938. The dam is 113 feet high. It still produces hydroelectricity with six large generators within the dam. The mean elevation of the lake water is 408 feet. The dam also has two locks. The area's lake is a popular spot for many different activities. Fishing is a popular sport in the lake, particularly for bass and catfish. Boating and water skiing are allowed on the lake. There are piers and boat ramps in the park for campers, as well as bathrooms and showers. The park is only open from March-September.
Langley, John. 2015. 'RV Parks And Campgrounds'. Colbertcountytourism.Org. http://www.colbertcountytourism.org/index.php/2012-11-08-15-09-04/rv-parks-campgrounds.
Rock Spring; Colbert County; Hiking; Nature; Natchez Trace
Rock Spring Nature Trail goes from Colbert Creek to Rock Springs. It is about a 20 minute walk. The trail is off of the Natchez Trace Parkway. The trail is a popular birding destination in the area. Birders mainly look for hummingbirds who are attracted to the plant life. Occasionally a hellbender, a large species of salamander can be found along the trail. Another popular inhabitant to the area are beavers, as they often dam up the creek. The park is maintained by the National Park Service under the Natchez Trace. There are parking locations for the park. Admission is free for the park.
Alabama Birding Trails,. 2015. 'Rock Springs Nature Trail Alabama Birding Trails'. http://alabamabirdingtrails.com/sites/natchez-trace-parkway-rock-springs-nature-trail/. Natcheztracetravel.com,. 2015. 'Rock Spring - Natchez Trace | Natcheztracetravel.Com'. http://www.natcheztracetravel.com/natchez-trace-alabama/florence-tennessee-river/121-rock-spring.html.
Limestone County, Alabama; Athens, Alabama; Dub's Burgers; Food
Dub's Burgers was opened in 1961 by Dub Greenhaw and has been in the family for three generations. The current owner, Lanier Greenhaw, is the great-nephew of the founder. Located at 204 South Jefferson Street, the restaurant is low-keyed and unpretentious. It is not uncommon to be waited on by an employee who has worked at Dub's for over twenty years. Like Kreme Delite, which is around the corner and was once owned by the Lanier family, Dub's Burgers is an Athens landmark.
Lauderdale County, Alabama; Greenhill, Alabama; Jason Isbell; Alabama Musicians
(Michael) Jason Isbell, who was born on February 1st, 1979, in Greenhill, Alabama (two miles from the Alabama-Tennessee state line) is an Alabama musician and songwriter whose work very much embodies a distinctive sense of place. He grew up in rural Alabama, attended Rogers (a school that serves kindergarten through grade twelve), and the University of Memphis. Family members taught him to play musical instruments and he was playing professionally at the age of fourteen. Many local musicians, including David Hood, served as mentors to Isbell and he got a publishing deal with FAME Studios in Muscle Shoals when he was twenty-one years old. He joined the Drive-by Truckers at the age of twenty-two and worked on their next three albums -- "Decoration Day" (2003), "The Dirty South," (2004), and "Blessing and Curse" (2006). Isbell was fired by the Drive-by Truckers in 2007. (The band members have remained friendly.) Isbell formed a band, Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit. made up of musicians (for the most part) from the Muscle Shoals area in 2009. They recorded and released two albums -- "Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit" (2009) and "Here We Rest" (2011). "Southeastern," a solo album, was released in 2013 and was a critical success. Isbell won the 2014 Americana Music Awards for Album of the Year, Artist of the Year, and the song, "Cover Me," from the album was named song of the year. "Something More Than Free," released on July 17, 2015 debuted at number one on Billboard Magazine's rock, folk, and country record charts.
Doyle, Patrick, "Jason Isbell's New Morning," Rolling Stone, August 7, 2015. "Jason Isbell on Success after Excess," CBS "Sunday Morning," August 9th, 2015.
Hale County, Alabama; Perry County, Alabama; Marengo County, Alabama; Newbern, Alabama; Rural Arts Studio; Architecture
The Rural Arts Studio, based in Newbern, Alabama, is a design-build architecture studio run by Auburn University. The studio was founded in 1993 by architects Samuel Mockbee and D. K. Ruth, and Andrew Freear is the current director. The Rural Studio has built more than eighty houses or community projects in Hale, Perry and Marengo counties in Alabama's impoverished "Black Belt." Each year three thesis projects by groups of three to five students are built by the students. One of the goals of the project is to build decent and affordable housing for the individuals in Hale County who live in poverty. The Rural Arts Studio has been featured on National Public Radio, "Sixty Minutes," and other international and national publications.
Photograph courtesy of the Archives at the Ralph Brown Draughon Library at Auburn University.
Colbert County, Colbert Ferry; National Park Service; Bicycle; Campground
This campground and park is located on the site of where George Colbert once operated a ferry for crossing the Tennessee River. He also operated a small inn for the travelers on the Natchez Trace. George Colbert supposedly took Andrew Jackson's Tennessee Army across the river for $75,000 during the War of 1812. George Colbert helped the US negotiate with the areas Indians, as he was half Choctaw. This is a bicycle only campground. It provides picnic tables, grills, and fire rings for campers. There is only a small white building in the space of the campground. Bluffs are nearby for viewing the river. The campground can be difficult to find and is located at milepost 327.3.
"Colbert Ferry - Natchez Trace | NatchezTraceTravel.com." Colbert Ferry - Natchez Trace | NatchezTraceTravel.com. Accessed December 1, 2015. http://www.natcheztracetravel.com/natchez-trace-alabama/florence-tennessee-river/124-colbert-ferry.html. Nps.gov,. 2015. 'Colbert Ferry Bicycle-Only Campground - Natchez Trace Parkway (U.S. National Park Service)'. http://www.nps.gov/natr/colbert-ferry-bicycle-only-campground.htm.
Colbert County; Lake; Fishing; Boating; Camping; Pickwick Reservation
Pickwick Reservoir is a lake created by the Pickwick Dam in Tennessee. Construction of the dam began in 1934. The dam, and resulting lake, were completed in 1938. The reservoir falls under the jurisdiction of the TVA. It extends for 53 miles from Tennessee to the Alabama-Mississippi border. The dam is 113 feet high. It still produces hydroelectricity with six large generators within the dam. The mean elevation of the lake water is 408 feet. The dam also has two locks. The resevoir is a popular spot for many different activities. Fishing is a popular sport in the lake, particular for bass and catfish. Boating and water skiing are allowed on the lake. There is a campgound located below the dam. The campground includes 92 sites with water and electricity and five primitive campsites.
"Pickwick Reservoir." Outdoor Alabama. July 16, 2014. Accessed December 1, 2015. http://www.outdooralabama.com/pickwick-reservoir. "Pickwick." TVA. Accessed December 1, 2015. https://www.tva.gov/Energy/Our-Power-System/Hydroelectric/Pickwick-Reservoir.
Saddle Up for St. Jude; Charity Event; Fundraiser; Gardiner Farm; St. Jude; Tuscumbia, Alabama; Colbert County, Alabama; Concert; Horseback Riding; Horse; Horses; Festival
Horseback trail riding, auction and headliner concerts mark this two-day event. Event is held annually on the 3rd Friday and Saturday in July. This event is a fundraiser for St. Jude. Donations are welcome. $35 donation to ride. $15 donation, if you don’t ride. Event is located at Gardiner Farm in Tuscumbia, Alabama.
Thomas Hale, University of North Alabama
“Saddle Up for St. Jude”, Accessed on November 29, 2015, http://www.colbertcountytourism.org/index.php/2012-11-08-15-07-00/annual-events http://www.saddleup4kids.org/
A Plantation Christmas; Belle Mont Mansion; Christmas Celebration; Tuscumbia, Alabama; Colbert County, Alabama; Plantation; Festival
One of Alabama’s most distinguished mansions is opulently decorated for Christmas when “the Old South” is recreated with period music, dancing and refreshments. This is an opportunity to see festivities and decorations of the historical past. The festival is held annually on the 1st Sunday in December from 1-5pm. Belle Mont Mansion is located at 1569 Cook Lane, Tuscumbia, Alabama. Admission must be paid.
“A Plantation Christmas”, Accessed on November 29, 2015, http://www.colbertcountytourism.org/index.php/2012-11-08-15-07-00/annual-events
Coon Dog Labor Day Celebration; Labor Day; Coon Dog Cemetery; Cherokee, Alabama; Colbert County, Alabama; Festival
The Coon Dog Labor Day Celebration is held at the world’s only Coon Dog Cemetery. Enjoy “old time” bluegrass music, buck dancing, barbecue, and a liar’s contest. Held annually on Labor Day. Admission is free. The Coon Dog Cemetery is on Coondog Cemetery Rd., in Cherokee, Alabama.
“Labor Day Events”, Accessed on November 29, 2015, http://www.colbertcountytourism.org/index.php/2012-11-08-15-07-00/annual-events
Fourth of July Celebration (Cherokee, Alabama)
Independence Day Festival; Fourth of July; Cherokee, Alabama; Colbert County, Alabama; Festival
The town of Cherokee celebrates with an Independence Day Festival that includes children’s games, bingo, food, street dance, music and fireworks. This festival is held annually on the 4th of July.
“Fourth of July Celebrations”, Accessed on November 29, 2015, http://www.colbertcountytourism.org/index.php/2012-11-08-15-07-00/annual-events
Muscle Shoals; TVA; Tennessee River; Colbert County
The Big Muscle Shoals is a section of the Tennessee River in North Alabama. This is the main shoals that gives the surrounding area its name, there is also the Little Muscle Shoals. The section on the river totals 37 miles in length. This was once an impassable barrier along the river. It made navigation extremely difficult for people. The Shoals was named after either the mussles found along the banks or the muscles needed to canoe across the river there. Both are disputed explanations for the naming of the shoals. The area had shoals, reefs, gravel, sand bars, swift currents, and uncertain depths along the expansive of river. Until the canal was built in the early 1800s the area could only be navigated by small man-propelled crafts, such as canoes and rafts. The increasing problem of navigation through th area eventually gained the notice of Congress and they provided land for sale to generate funds to build a canal. This original canal was little help and was never intended to be used as a high traffic waterway. Coal barges could barely, if at all, fit down the canal. It was also a very slow option to navigate along the river, as it could take up to 11 hours to fully travel down over the shoals.
'FDR, TVA, And CCC Federal Influence In The Shoals: The Journal Of Muscle Shoals History Volume XIX'. 2015. Florence. William Lindsey McDonald Collection. UNA Special Archives. Peyton, John Howe. 1916. 'America's Gibraltar Muscle Shoals'. Paper. Florence. William Lindsey McDonald Collection. UNA Special Archives. Young, Ronald. 1976. 'History Of US Facilities At Muscle Shoals, Alabama, And Origins Of The TVA'. Paper. Florence. William Lindsey McDonald Collection. UNA Special Archives.
Park; Colbert County; Muscle Shoals, Alabama; recreation;
Gattman Park is maintained by the Muscle Shoals Parks and Recreation Department. The park has access to both indoor and outdoor activities. There are two gym facilities, one with a rubber floor walking track. The other gym also has meeting rooms available for renting out. Outside, the park has two large pavilions and one small one. This is the location of the areas' ball fields, as well. There is an outdoor walking track around the park, with playground equipment in various locations around the area. During the summer months the splash pad play area can also be rented out for parties. Gattman Park is a well maintained park and is popular with the area's families.
Alabama's Official Travel Guide,. 2015. 'Muscle Shoals Parks And Recreation Department - Muscle Shoals - Alabama.Travel'. http://alabama.travel/places-to-go/muscle-shoals-parks-and-recreation-department. Cityofmuscleshoals.com,. 2015. 'Muscle Shoals – Facilities'.
Freedom Hills; Shooting Range; Colbert County, Alabama; Cherokee, Alabama; Primitive Camping
Freedom Hills is a 34,500 acre wildlife area. It borders the Natchez Trace and Cherokee, Alabama. The main attraction to the area is the abundant hunting available in the area and the outside shooting range. The shooting range is open to the public and can also be used for archery. It has a distance of 100 yards. The shooting range is also wheelchair accessible. A valid hunting or fishing license must be had to use the shooting range. It is also only open during daylight. This wildlife area is also home to the famous Coon Dog Cemetery. The cemetery is a resting place for many hunting dogs. The area also has primitive camping.
Outdoor Alabama,. 2014. 'Freedom Hills WMA Shooting Range'. http://www.outdooralabama.com/freedom-hills-wma-shooting-range. Alabama's Official Travel Guide,. 2015. 'Freedom Hills Wildlife Management Area - Cherokee - Alabama.Travel'. http://alabama.travel/places-to-go/freedom-hills-wildlife-management-area.
Colbert County Alabama; Sheffield Alabama; P.B. Swoopes Dry Cleaners; African American History; Business; African American Business; P.B. Swoopes
P.B. Swoopes Dry Cleaners was a business run by P.B. Swoopes in Sheffield Alabama. Swoopes was a graduate of Sheffield school. He would go on to open his dry cleaning business in downtown Sheffield. Swoopes started his dry cleaning business in 1927. The building was later moved in 1942. The building is in a severe state of disrepair and the inside has growing plant life. His business sign can still be seen through the front window.
Arthur Graves interview by Sam Keiser. November 11, 2015 Frederick, Lorene. "Sheffield Businessman Endures 54 Years of Ups and Downs In Downtown District." Florence Times, April 26, 1981. 5
Colbert County, Alabama; African American History; Fairs; Colbert County Colored Fair
As far back as 1912 there is a record of a fair for African Americans taking place in Colbert County. The fair took place at a location called the Fair Grounds. The fair was popular, with a large turnout for the event. The event officially began on a Wednesday in October of 1912. The festival opened with a street parade that included a band and was followed by kids from the local schools. There were also several exhibits, talks, and displays during the course of the fair. The fair closed on Saturday night ending four days of fair activities. The fair, according to the newspaper the Alabama Dispatch was the only fair for African Americans to take place in the state. The paper also notes that by the end of the fair thousands of African Americans had attended this event. All signs point to this fair generating a large amount of interest in the African-American community.
"Colored Fair in Progress Large Crowds In Attendance And Great Interest Being Manifested." Alabama Dispatch, October 17, 1912.
Mess Hall; Colbert County; Muscle Shoals; Nitrate Plant; TVA; Mess hall
The Tennessee Valley is filled with minerals, including the materials needed to produce nitrates. Nitrates can be used for many things, most importantly for TVA to help add nutrients to fertilizer. This helped to increase crop production. Another use for a nitrate plant can be for producing nitric acid during times of war to create explosives. These two important factors helped lead the US government to initially start building the Wilson Dam in 1918 and susbequently in 1933 give the TVA control of one of the two nitrate plants in the area of the Shoals. During the early twentieth century, only a small amount of nitrate used in the US came from the country. Most was imported from South America. The top priority of the TVA was to improve soil and prevent erosion. By employing nitrogen from the plant, the TVA could improve farmland. Before the introduction of nitrogen back into the land by the TVA, farmers were exhausting the land and creating barren fallow fields of mud that eroded away into the river. With the plant came a village to house the many workers brought into the area by the Civilian Conservation Corps. This was called Village No. 2 and existed for 32 years. The plant was built by the American Cyanmid Company, with the overall goal of producing 40,000 tons of nitrogen. The plant and Wilson Dam, then referred to as Dam No. 2, were commissioned and built by the federal government, with the help of the state of Alabama. The plant was to produce ammonium nitrate by the cynamid process of nitrogen fixation. It cost about $12 million dollars to build. With the influx of workers, mainly from the CCC, mess halls were built in the villages to help feed all of the men. Village No. 2 housed one mess hall.
FDR, TVA, And CCC Federal Influence In The Shoals: The Journal Of Muscle Shoals History Volume XIX'. 2015. Florence. William Lindsey McDonald Collection. UNA Special Archives. Gunther, John. 1953. 'The Story Of The TVA'. Book. Florence. William Lindsey McDonald Collection. UNA Special Archives. 'Sheffield History And Recollections: Journal Of Muscle Shoals History Volume XVIII'. 2011. Florence. William Lindsey McDonald Colleciton. UNA Special Archives. Carle, J.F. 'US Nitrate Plant No. 2, Muscle Shoals, Alabama'. Paper. Florence. William Lindsey McDonald Collection. UNA Special Archives. Young, Ronald. 1976. 'History Of US Facilities At Muscle Shoals, Alabama, And Origins Of The TVA'. Paper. Florence. William Lindsey McDonald Collection. UNA Special Archives.
Colbert County, Alabama; Native American History; Native American house
George Colbert’s House was built on the Natchez Trace along the Tennessee River near the ferry he owned and operated. This house was one of the first buildings in the area to have a clear record of its completion. Historians have placed the completion of the home between 1801 and 1806. The home was a different from many of the settler’s homes during this time period. Most homes that were constructed by settlers were built from log in a dogtrot style. Colbert’s home was instead a frame building. The house also had several chimneys along with two rooms. The house itself could be compared to the home of a wealthy, white southerner at the time.
Colbert County Heritage Book Committee (Colbert County, Ala.). 1999. The Heritage of Colbert County, Alabama. Clanton, AL: Heritage Pub. Consultants. 43
Colbert County, Alabama; Native American History; Ferry; George Colbert
Colbert’s Ferry was a ferry service and an inn run by George Colbert. In 1801, the United States government managed to secure the right to build roads on the Natchez Trace. However, Colbert managed to secure all ferry routes over the rivers for the Chickasaw nation. This meant that only the Chickasaw nation was allowed to operate any ferries on the Trace. The cost of using Colbert’s Ferry was only a dollar for both a man and his horse. However, Colbert was noted to have complained that many of his customers were too poor to afford the service.
Natchez Trace; Colbert County; Muscle Shoals; Tuscumbia; Sheffield; Parkway
The Nathchez Trace was once a path used by Native Americans in the region, including the Choctaw and Chickasaw Indians. It was a popular path for pioneers and settlers to take as well. Once there was better navigation on the river, with the invention of steamboats, use of the Trace decreased. The Trace runs from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee. It is a 444 mile parkway managed by the National Park Service now that crosses Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee. A compact was formed in 1999 to create and maintain the Trace parkway. The primary object of this pact is to bring visitors to the Natchez Trace Parkway and to encourage people to explore the Trace. In the Shoals area the Trace goes through Tuscumbia, Sheffield, Muscle Shoals, and Florence.
'Explore The Natchez Trace'. Florence. Florence City. UNA Special Archives.
Colbert County, Alabama; Sheffield Alabama; African American Church; Church; African American History
First Baptist Missionary Church was originally founded in 1886. The first church consisted of two wooden buildings. These buildings would later be destroyed in a fire. The congregation was then forced to use the Masonic Hall as their new meeting place. Eventually, the City of Sheffield donated two lots for the use of the congregation. A new building for the congregation was planned. Taking note of the earlier fire, the congregation decided that the new building would be made of brick. The church building would last until 1965 when a new building was constructed for the congregation. The ground was officially broken two years later in 1967. The church can be found on 1103 Sterling Blvd, Sheffield, AL 35660
Colbert County Heritage Book Committee (Colbert County, Ala.). 1999. The Heritage of Colbert County, Alabama. Clanton, AL: Heritage Pub. Consultants. 70
Recreation; Railroad Bridge; Colbert County; Muscle Shoals; TVA
The Railroad Bridge is a part of the TVA Nature Loop. The TVA Nature Loop is a 2.5 mile loop trail on TVA protected land. Overall, there are roughly 11 miles of footpaths in the area. The loop is around a section of the TVA reservation. The path is well paved and taken care of. People with disabilities should be able to navigate along the path. The park is pet friendly. One of the most interesting features of the trail is the Railroad Bridge. The bridge once crossed the expanse of the river from Muscle Shoals to Florence. It originally had an upper and lower deck. People, carriages, and animals could travel along the bottom deck while trains crossed across the top. The pier itself dates back to 1832, and the rest of the structure dates to 1903. The original bridge opened in 1839 as a toll bridge.In 1939, the bottom part of the Old Railroad Bridge, which allowed traffic and pedestrians to get across, closed because O’Neal Bridge opened for traffic. The Old Railroad Bridge was only used for train crossing until it was closed in 1988. Now only a portion of the bridge still exists and has been renovated for the walking trail. The bridge is a popular spot for pictures in the area.
Carrie Keener, University of North Alabama Esau Ramos, University of North Alabama
KIng, Gail. 2010. 'Wilson Village No. 2 1918-1950'. Book. Florence. William Lindsey McDonald Collection. UNA Special Archives. 'Explore The Shoals'. 2014. Florence. Florence City. UNA Special Archives. AllTrails.com,. 2015. 'TVA Nature Loop'. http://alltrails.com/trail/us/alabama/tva-nature-loop?ref=search.
Spring Park; Colbert County; Tuscumbia, Alabama; walking; spring
Spring Park is in downtown Tuscumbia. The main feature of the park is the spring and waterfall. The waterfall is made of natural limestone rocks. An fountain show is put on during certain times of the year. The area is often used for festivals and events in the area. The park is very family oriented with a playground, a mini roller coaster, and a unique little train that travels around the park. A statue is located in the park to pay tribute to the region's Native American heritage. The park includes pavilions and stages to host entertainment. There is year round trout fishing in the spring, however there is a fee to fish here. Restaurants are also located around the park.
Langley, John. 2015. 'Spring Park'. Springparkal.Com. http://www.springparkal.com/.
Colbert County, Alabama; Tuscumbia, Alabama; Churches; African American Church; African American History
The First Baptist Church of Tuscumbia was originally formed by a small group of African American worshipers. The church was established in 1866 shortly after the Civil War under the guidance of Elder W.E. Northcross. The church members did not have an official church building to meet at so they were forced to constantly relocate their meetings. The members of the church were able to eventually buy property on Eleventh and High Streets. The building the congregation built would also serve as the site of a school for African American youth. The building, which was made of brick, was completed in 1892. Membership in the church grew so rapidly that the First Baptist Church in Tuscumbia became the largest congregation of African Americans in Colbert County.
Colbert County Heritage Book Committee (Colbert County, Ala.). 1999. The Heritage of Colbert County, Alabama. Clanton, AL: Heritage Pub. Consultants. 35-37
Colbert County, Alabama; Tuscumbia, Alabama; Tuscumbia Landing; Native American History
During Indian Removal, Tuscumbia’s Landing served as the point of disembarkation for the water route used to move Native Americans west of the Mississippi. The train to Tuscumbia brought the Cherokee Nation to Spring Park, where they were held before being shipped on boats along the Tennessee River. Tuscumbia Landing still holds significance to the descendants of the Native Americans. Every year during the Oka Kapassa festival Native Americans make the two-mile journey from Spring Park to Tuscumbia Landing to signify the road their ancestors traveled during the Trail of Tears.
Gail King, Historic Document Research, Geophysical Survey, Mapping, and Archaeological Inventory at Tuscumbia Landing, A Trail of Tears National Historic Trail site in Colbert County, Alabama (Aug 2011) pg. 101-143
Colbert County, Alabama; Tuscumbia, Alabama; Railroad; Native American History; Trail of Tears.
The Tuscumbia-Courtland & Decatur railroad was established by a group of investors led by Benjamin Sherrod in 1841. Originally a two-train car, the railroad was established to allow ships to bypass the shoals of the Tennessee River. In 1843, the railroad line expanded to other towns including Courtland, Jonesboro, Leighton, and Decatur. After the completion of the railroad it would be eventually put to use during the Trail of Tears. The train played a prominent role during the forced relocation of the Native American tribes in Georgia. The train provided the means to transport a large number of Native Americans quickly to Tuscumbia Landing where they would then be shipped off to land allocated for their use west of the Mississippi. The primary tribe to be relocated on this train were the Cherokee Nation. The Creek Nation in Georgia had largely been moved out prior to the use of the train. The Cherokee Nation would travel to Decatur where they would board the train heading for Tuscumbia Landing.
Gail King, Historic Document Research, Geophysical Survey, Mapping, and Archaeological Inventory at Tuscumbia Landing, A Trail of Tears National Historic Trail site in Colbert County, Alabama (Aug 2011) pg. 109-143
Muscle Shoals, Alabama; Colbert County; Tennessee River
The Muscle Shoals is a section of the Tennessee River in North Alabama. This is the shoals that gives the surrounding area its name. The section on the river totals 37 miles in length. This was once an impassable barrier along the river. It made navigation extremely difficult for people. The Shoals was named after either the mussels found along the banks or the muscles needed to canoe across the river there. Both are disputed explanations for the naming of the shoals. Along this stretch the river had shoals, reefs, gravel, sand bars, swift currents, and uncertain depths. Until the canal was built in the early 1800s the area could only be navigated by small man-propelled crafts, such as canoes and rafts. The increasing problem of navigation through the area eventually gained the notice of Congress and they provided land for sale to generate funds to build a canal. This original canal was little help and was never intended to be used as a high traffic waterway. Coal barges could barely, if at all, fit down the canal. It was also a very slow option to naviagte along the river, as it could take up to 11 hours to fully travel down the river.
Young, Ronald. 1976. 'History Of US Facilities At Muscle Shoals, Alabama, And Origins Of The TVA'. Paper. Florence. William Lindsey McDonald Collection. UNA Special Archives. Peyton, John Howe. 1916. 'America's Gibraltar Muscle Shoals'. Paper. Florence. William Lindsey McDonald Collection. UNA Special Archives. 'FDR, TVA, And CCC Federal Influence In The Shoals: The Journal Of Muscle Shoals History Volume XIX'. 2015. Florence. William Lindsey McDonald Collection. UNA Special Archives.
Colbert County, Alabama; Cherokee, Alabama; LaGrange Rock Shelter; Paleo-Indian site; Native American History
The LaGrange Rock shelter is considered to be where the first natives lived in the southeastern United States. Archaeologists have put the earliest human activity in this area between 11,000 and 9,000 years ago. Researchers have found evidence of human activity such as flint chips and cutting tools. By carbon dating these materials researches were able to establish a time frame of when human activity first began. Because of the early period of use, the site is referred to as a Paleo-Indian site. Because of the significance of this site it was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974.
Colbert County Heritage Book Committee (Colbert County, Ala.). 1999. The Heritage of Colbert County, Alabama. Clanton, AL: Heritage Pub. Consultants. 55
Colbert County, Alabama; Tuscumbia, Alabama; Ricks Cemetery, Cemetery; African American Cemetery; African American History
The Ricks family cemetery is an African American cemetery located near the Church of Christ established by George Parson Ricks and the Oaks Plantation. The grave of George Parson Ricks, a former slave on the Oaks, can be found in this cemetery along with his sons and other descendants. The cemetery is still managed and maintained by Parsons descendants. The cemetery itself is located behind the Oaks Plantation.
Arthur Graves interview by Sam Keiser. November 11 2015.
Colbert County, Muscle Shoals, Birding, Hiking
The North Alabama Birding Trail consists of fifty birding sites across the northern part of the state. There are currently 397 species known to have been seen along the trail. The fifty sites were carefully selected by a group of biologists, bird enthusiasts, and conservationists. The criteria used to determine the sites were: probability of birds, ecological significance, site resiliency, physical and legal access, economic significance, maintenance support, and parking availability. The trial has a wide array of habitats, such as, wetlands, grasslands, and forests. It is suggested to dress for the season. There is a possibility of seeing birds from inside a vehicle. Binoculars are a useful tool to carry along on the trail.
"North Alabama Birding Trail - Frequently Asked Questions." North Alabama Birding Trail - Frequently Asked Questions. Accessed December 1, 2015. http://www.northalabamabirdingtrail.com/about_the_trail/faq.aspx. 'Explore The Shoals'. 2014. Florence. Florence City. UNA Special Archives.