West Commerce Street Historic District/Historic Greenville Depot
Historical marker location:
102 Bolling Street, Greenville, Alabama
( Marker is at the intersection of West Commerce Street (Alabama Route 10) and Bolling Street, on the left when traveling west on West Commerce Street.)
Marker installed: 2000
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Alabama was the birthplace of some of the most famous musicians in history, including Hank Williams, Nat King Cole, and W.C. Handy, who is often referred to as the "Father of the Blues."
About Butler County
Butler County Timeline
Butler County, located in the southern part of Alabama, has a rich and diverse history that dates back thousands of years. The region was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, particularly the Creek and Choctaw nations. These tribes thrived in the area due to its fertile soil and abundant natural resources.
The first European settlers arrived in Butler County during the early 1800s, primarily from Georgia and South Carolina. They were attracted to the region's potential for agriculture, as the fertile soil was perfect for cultivating crops like cotton and corn. The influx of settlers led to the establishment of towns and communities such as Greenville, the county seat.
Butler County played a significant role in the Civil War, with many young men from the area enlisting in the Confederate Army. The county was occupied by Union troops for a significant portion of the war, causing disruptions to the agricultural economy and the local population.
In the years following the Civil War, Butler County experienced a period of reconstruction and recovery. The economy slowly rebounded, and the introduction of the railroad in the late 19th century played a significant role in the county's growth. With the arrival of the railroad, industries such as timber, turpentine, and livestock thrived in the area.
Today, Butler County continues to be a hub of agriculture and industry in Alabama. Its rich history is evident in the numerous historic sites and landmarks that can be found throughout the county, serving as a reminder of the resilience and determination of its people throughout the years.
The first European settlers arrived in Butler County during the early 1800s, primarily from Georgia and South Carolina. They were attracted to the region's potential for agriculture, as the fertile soil was perfect for cultivating crops like cotton and corn. The influx of settlers led to the establishment of towns and communities such as Greenville, the county seat.
Butler County played a significant role in the Civil War, with many young men from the area enlisting in the Confederate Army. The county was occupied by Union troops for a significant portion of the war, causing disruptions to the agricultural economy and the local population.
In the years following the Civil War, Butler County experienced a period of reconstruction and recovery. The economy slowly rebounded, and the introduction of the railroad in the late 19th century played a significant role in the county's growth. With the arrival of the railroad, industries such as timber, turpentine, and livestock thrived in the area.
Today, Butler County continues to be a hub of agriculture and industry in Alabama. Its rich history is evident in the numerous historic sites and landmarks that can be found throughout the county, serving as a reminder of the resilience and determination of its people throughout the years.
Butler County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Butler County, Alabama.
- 1819: Butler County is established as a county in the state of Alabama.
- 1820: The town of Greenville is established as the county seat of Butler County.
- 1821: The first courthouse in Butler County is constructed in Greenville.
- 1832: The first post office is established in Greenville.
- 1850: The population of Butler County reaches 7,745 residents.
- 1861-1865: During the American Civil War, Butler County supports the Confederacy.
- 1879: The first railroad is built in Butler County, connecting Greenville to Montgomery.
- 1899: The Boll Weevil, an agricultural pest, arrives in Butler County, causing significant damage to the cotton industry.
- 1919: The first paved road is constructed in Butler County, connecting Greenville to Georgiana.
- 1939-1945: Butler County contributes to the war effort during World War II, with many residents serving in the armed forces.
- 1965: Butler County participates in the Civil Rights Movement, including the Selma to Montgomery marches.
- 2000: The population of Butler County is 21,399 residents.
- 2010: The population of Butler County decreases to 20,947 residents.