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The city of Anniston, Alabama was the site of one of the most violent incidents of the Civil Rights Era. In 1961, a bus carrying Freedom Riders, a group of civil rights activists, was attacked and set on fire by a mob in Anniston.
About Crenshaw County
Crenshaw County Timeline
Crenshaw County, Alabama has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1866. The county was named after Anderson Crenshaw, who was a prominent judge and legislator in Alabama during the 19th century. It was originally carved out of parts of Butler, Coffee, Covington, Pike, and Lowndes counties, and its county seat is Luverne.
In its early years, Crenshaw County relied heavily on agriculture, with cotton being the main cash crop. The fertile soil and favorable climate made it ideal for farming, attracting many settlers to the area. Over time, industries such as timber, turpentine, and peanuts also played a significant role in the county's economic growth.
During the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s, Crenshaw County, like many other parts of the South, experienced racial tensions and struggles. Civil rights activists, including Martin Luther King Jr., spoke out against racial discrimination and advocated for equal rights. While there were instances of violence and resistance, efforts were made to promote integration and equality in the county.
Today, Crenshaw County continues to be primarily an agricultural community, with farming and ranching as major industries. The county is also home to several natural attractions, including the Conecuh National Forest and the picturesque Gantt Lake. The community takes pride in its heritage and celebrates its history through various events and festivals, showcasing the county's unique culture and traditions.
In its early years, Crenshaw County relied heavily on agriculture, with cotton being the main cash crop. The fertile soil and favorable climate made it ideal for farming, attracting many settlers to the area. Over time, industries such as timber, turpentine, and peanuts also played a significant role in the county's economic growth.
During the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s, Crenshaw County, like many other parts of the South, experienced racial tensions and struggles. Civil rights activists, including Martin Luther King Jr., spoke out against racial discrimination and advocated for equal rights. While there were instances of violence and resistance, efforts were made to promote integration and equality in the county.
Today, Crenshaw County continues to be primarily an agricultural community, with farming and ranching as major industries. The county is also home to several natural attractions, including the Conecuh National Forest and the picturesque Gantt Lake. The community takes pride in its heritage and celebrates its history through various events and festivals, showcasing the county's unique culture and traditions.
Crenshaw County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Crenshaw County, Alabama.
- 1819 - Crenshaw County is established as an Alabama county
- 1821 - First settlers arrive in the area
- 1830s - County experiences rapid growth due to the arrival of more settlers
- 1833 - Luverne, the county seat, is founded
- 1850s - The construction of the Montgomery and West Point Railroad boosts the local economy
- 1861-1865 - Crenshaw County residents participate in the American Civil War
- 1870 - Population reaches its peak at around 18,000 residents
- 1894 - Crenshaw County courthouse is built
- 1930s - Great Depression brings economic hardship to the county
- 1950s-1970s - Civil rights movement impacts the county, leading to desegregation and social change
- 2005 - Hurricane Ivan causes significant damage to the area