History of Alexander City Alabama

Alexander City, Alabama is a small town located in Tallapoosa County in the east central part of the state. The town was founded in 1872 by James Young, who named it in honor of Alexander Mitchell, a director of the Savannah and Memphis Railroad. The railroad played a key role in the town’s early development, as it connected Alexander City to other towns in the region and facilitated the transportation of goods and people.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Alexander City grew rapidly, thanks in part to the abundance of natural resources in the area. The town’s proximity to Lake Martin, one of the largest man-made lakes in the United States, made it an attractive location for industries such as lumber, textiles, and agriculture. The construction of the Martin Dam on the Tallapoosa River in the 1920s further spurred the town’s growth, as it created a reliable source of hydroelectric power.

Throughout its history, Alexander City has been a center of commerce and industry in the region. In the early years of the 20th century, the town was home to a thriving textile industry, with several cotton mills and weaving factories in operation. These mills employed hundreds of workers and produced a wide variety of textiles, including cotton thread, fabric, and clothing.

In addition to textiles, Alexander City has been home to a number of other industries over the years, including lumber, agriculture, and manufacturing. Today, the town is home to a diverse mix of businesses, including small retail shops, restaurants, and professional services.

One of the most significant events in Alexander City’s history occurred in the 1950s, when the town became the site of the Russell Corporation’s headquarters. The Russell Corporation was a major manufacturer of athletic apparel and equipment, and its presence in Alexander City brought thousands of jobs to the area. The company was a major employer in the town for several decades, until it was acquired by Berkshire Hathaway in 2006.

Over the years, Alexander City has also been home to a number of notable residents who have made significant contributions to the town and the world beyond. One such person is Jim Nabors, the actor and singer best known for his portrayal of Gomer Pyle on the TV series “The Andy Griffith Show” and its spin-off, “Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C.” Nabors grew up in Sylacauga, Alabama, just a few miles from Alexander City, and spent much of his childhood in the area.

Another notable resident of Alexander City is Alexander Means, a prominent attorney and civic leader who has been active in the community for many years. Means has served on the board of directors for several local organizations, including the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce and the Alexander City Arts Council. He has also been involved in numerous philanthropic endeavors in the area, including the creation of a scholarship fund for local students.

Today, Alexander City is a thriving community with a rich history and a promising future. The town is home to a vibrant arts scene, with several galleries and performance venues showcasing the work of local artists and musicians. It is also a popular destination for outdoor recreation, with its proximity to Lake Martin and other natural attractions drawing visitors from across the region.

In conclusion, Alexander City, Alabama has a long and fascinating history that has shaped its identity as a center of commerce, industry, and culture in the region. From its early days as a railroad town to its status as a modern hub of business and creativity, Alexander City has always been a place where people come together to work, play, and build a better future for themselves and their community.