Sheffield Residential Historic District
Roughly bounded by Riverside Pk, River Bluff Dr., Wood, Third, Second Sts., 15th Ave., 27th St., and 19th Ave., Sheffield, AL Local significance of the district:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2002.
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
The area that is now Colbert County has a rich history dating back thousands of years. Native American tribes such as the Cherokee and Chickasaw inhabited the region long before the arrival of European settlers. In the 19th century, European settlers began to arrive, establishing towns and communities along the Tennessee River.
One of the most significant events in Colbert County's history was the establishment of the city of Tuscumbia, which was incorporated in 1820. Tuscumbia became an important center of commerce and industry in the region, thanks in part to its strategic location on the Tennessee River. It was also the birthplace of Helen Keller, the renowned author and activist.
During the Civil War, Colbert County was a hotspot of activity due to its proximity to the Tennessee River and its strategic importance for transportation and communication. The area saw multiple battles, including the Battle of Sheffield in 1862. Following the war, the county began to rebuild and diversify its economy, focusing on industries such as mining, manufacturing, and agriculture.
Today, Colbert County remains an important part of Alabama's history and economy. It is known for its natural beauty, with the Tennessee River providing ample recreational opportunities. The county is also home to numerous historical sites, including the Helen Keller Birthplace and the Belle Mont Mansion, which showcase the area's rich past.
Colbert County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Colbert County, Alabama.
- 1818 - Colbert County is created by the Alabama legislature, named after brothers George and Levi Colbert who were prominent Chickasaw Indian chiefs
- 1820s - European settlers begin to establish communities in the county
- 1833 - Tuscumbia, the county seat, is incorporated as a town
- 1850s - Construction of railroads in the county connecting Tuscumbia with other cities and states stimulates economic growth
- 1861-1865 - Colbert County residents actively participate in the American Civil War
- 1874 - Tuscumbia becomes a city
- 1891 - The Tennessee Valley Railroad connects Sheffield, a city in Colbert County, with other parts of Alabama
- Late 19th century - The county experiences industrial growth with the development of textile mills and iron furnaces
- 20th century - Manufacturing and industrial sectors continue to drive the county's economy
- 1968 - The Tennessee Valley Authority completes construction of Wilson Dam on the Tennessee River, providing jobs and electricity to the area
- Present - Colbert County remains a vital part of Alabama's economic landscape, known for its rich history and natural beauty