Old Pell City Historic District
Roughly bounded by 16th St. N, 1st Ave. N, 22nd St. N, and 4th Ave. N, Pell City, AL Local significance of the district:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2001.
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 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.
European colonization of the region began in the late 18th century, and by the early 19th century, the area that is now St. Clair County was part of the Alabama Territory. The establishment of the county itself came in 1818, with its name honoring General Arthur St. Clair, a Revolutionary War hero. The county seat, Ashville, was chosen and remains the seat of government to this day.
During the 19th century, St. Clair County experienced significant growth and development. Early settlers were predominantly farmers, and agriculture played a crucial role in the county's economy. The arrival of the railroads in the mid-1800s spurred further growth, enhancing transportation and connecting St. Clair County to larger markets, such as Birmingham.
The Civil War, like in other parts of the South, had a significant impact on St. Clair County. The area witnessed battles and skirmishes as Union and Confederate forces clashed, and the county suffered economic devastation. Reconstruction brought further challenges, but gradually the county rebuilt and emerged from the ashes of war.
Today, St. Clair County is a thriving area with a diverse economy that includes agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. The county's natural beauty, including scenic lakes and state parks, draws visitors from all over. With a blend of historical significance and modern amenities, St. Clair County continues to evolve while cherishing its past.
St. Clair County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of St. Clair County, Alabama.
- 1818: St. Clair County is established as one of the original counties of Alabama
- 1819: First county seat, Ashville, is established
- 1837: County seat is moved to Pell City
- 1861-1865: St. Clair County takes part in the American Civil War
- 1876: County seat is moved back to Ashville
- 1891: First electric streetcar is introduced in Pell City
- 1942: Coleman Lake Recreation Area is built by the Civilian Conservation Corps
- 1965: Logan Martin Lake is created by damming the Coosa River
- 1999: St. Clair County Courthouse in Ashville is destroyed by fire
- 2019: County seat is moved to Pell City once again