National Register Listing

Pickens County Courthouse

Jct. of AL 17, Phoenix St. (Co. Rd. 35) and Tuscaloosa St. (AL 86), Carrollton, AL
Local significance of the building:
Politics/government; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1994.

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.

politics government architecture law courthouses buildings
The city of Huntsville, Alabama played a key role in the United States space program during the Cold War. The Redstone Arsenal, located in Huntsville, was the site of the development of the first ballistic missile, and later became the center of the U.S. Army's missile and rocket programs.
Alabama random facts
Pickens County, Alabama has a rich and diverse history that spans several centuries. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, such as the Choctaw, before European settlers arrived in the late 18th century. The county's name is derived from Revolutionary War hero General Andrew Pickens.

In the early 19th century, Pickens County was primarily agricultural, with cotton being the dominant crop. The county's fertile land and proximity to the Alabama River made it an ideal location for plantation farming. The slave population grew rapidly, and by the mid-1800s, enslaved African Americans outnumbered white settlers in the county.

During the Civil War, Pickens County was strategically important due to its location near the Mississippi-Alabama border. The area witnessed several skirmishes and battles, with both Union and Confederate troops vying for control. The war had a devastating impact on the county, as many homes and farms were destroyed and the economy suffered.

Following the end of the war, Pickens County began its slow recovery. The economy shifted towards timber and coal mining, which helped to revive the region. The county also saw the establishment of schools, churches, and infrastructure, as well as the growth of small towns and communities.

Today, Pickens County continues to be primarily rural, with agriculture and industry playing a significant role in the local economy. The county is known for its natural beauty, including the scenic landscapes of the Appalachian foothills and the recreational opportunities offered by the nearby Tombigbee River. With a long and complex history, Pickens County remains a testament to the resilience and perseverance of its people.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Pickens County, Alabama.

  • 1819: Pickens County is established as one of the original counties in the state of Alabama.
  • 1820s: The first settlements are established in Pickens County.
  • 1830: The county seat is established in Carrollton.
  • 1840s: The county's economy begins to flourish, primarily based on agriculture and timber industries.
  • 1861-1865: Pickens County is heavily impacted by the American Civil War.
  • 1877: The county courthouse in Carrollton is destroyed by fire.
  • 1878: A new courthouse is built in Carrollton to replace the one lost in the fire.
  • 20th century: The county experiences significant growth in population and development.
  • 1965: Pickens County is the site of several civil rights marches and protests.
  • 2000s: The county continues to evolve and develop in various sectors, including education and agriculture.