Historical Markers in
Shelby County, Alabama

Alabama Historical Association Benton Family Cemetery Calera & Shelby Railroad Cedar Grove Cemetery Central Iron Works City Of Chelsea Columbiana, Alabama Confederate Forts David Lindsay Historical Cemetery Site Harless Cemetery Harmony Graveyard Harpersville Garden of Memories Helena Freight House & Depot Helena, Alabama Historic Harpersville History of Wilsonville, Alabama James Daniel Hardy King House Lynching in America / Lynching in Montevallo Machine Shop Smoke Stack McGaughy Farms Montevallo High School Mount Tabor United Methodist Church Cemetery Nabors Cemetery Old Quinn Burying Ground Old Sterrett Cemetery Pelham, Alabama / Ballantrae Golf Course Shelby County Courthouse Shelby County War Memorial Shelby Furnaces Shelby Springs Confederate Cemetery Shelbyville, A. T. Sidney Word Lee Steam Engine The Colonial Courthouse/The Stocks and Pillory The Founding of Alabaster / Siluria The Liberty Bell The Liberty Bell Garden The Lucille Ryals Thompson Colonial Chapel / One Nation Under God The President's Oval Office / The Glorious Burden Town of Vincent Town of Westover Town of Wilton University Of Montevallo National Historic District Washington Hall/Birth of A Nation Welcome To Historic Montevallo Wilsonville Cemetery
The University of Alabama was the site of one of the most dramatic moments in college football history. In 1970, legendary Alabama head coach Bear Bryant walked onto the field during a game against Southern California and ordered his team to remove their helmets as a sign of respect for the recent passing of USC's coach.
Alabama random facts
Shelby County, Alabama, has a rich history that dates back to its initial settlement in the early 1800s. Named after Isaac Shelby, the first governor of Kentucky and a hero of the American Revolution, the county was officially established in February 1818. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Creek and Cherokee, but was opened up for settlement after the Creek War of 1813-1814.

The county's economy was primarily agricultural, with cotton being the dominant crop. As the population grew, small towns and crossroads communities emerged throughout the area. The town of Columbiana was designated as the county seat in 1826, and it continues to serve as the center of government and commerce to this day.

Shelby County experienced significant growth in the late 19th century with the arrival of the railroad. Rail lines connected the county to Birmingham, allowing for easier transportation of goods and increasing economic opportunities. The county saw the establishment of numerous industries, including iron ore mining, limestone quarrying, and the manufacturing of iron and steel products.

The 20th century brought further development to Shelby County, particularly with the construction of highways and an increased focus on education. The county's education system expanded, and several schools and colleges were established. Agriculture remained important, but new industries such as banking, healthcare, and retail began to thrive.

Today, Shelby County is one of Alabama's fastest-growing counties. It is known for its high standard of living, strong school systems, and beautiful natural surroundings. The area's rich history is preserved through historical sites, museums, and events that celebrate the community's heritage.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Shelby County, Alabama.

  • 1818 - Shelby County is formed as part of the Alabama Territory.
  • 1820 - The county seat is established in Shelbyville, later renamed to Columbiana.
  • 1837 - The Alabama and Tennessee River Railroad is completed, boosting economic growth in the county.
  • 1861-1865 - Shelby County actively participates in the American Civil War.
  • 1870s - Agriculture becomes the primary industry in the county with the cultivation of cotton and other crops.
  • 1902 - Montevallo becomes the headquarters for the Alabama Girls Industrial School, now known as the University of Montevallo.
  • 1940s-1950s - Shelby County experiences a surge in population growth due to industrial development and suburbanization.
  • 1975 - Oak Mountain State Park is established, becoming a popular recreational area in the county.
  • 2000s - Shelby County becomes one of the fastest-growing counties in Alabama, attracting new residents and businesses.