National Register Listing

Talladega College Historic District

Jct. of Battle St. and Martin Luther King Dr., Talladega, AL
Local significance of the district:
Black; Education; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1990.

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.

ethnic heritage black education architecture
The Confederate submarine H.L. Hunley, which was the first submarine to sink an enemy ship in combat, was built in Mobile, Alabama in 1863.
Alabama random facts
Talladega County, located in the state of Alabama, has a rich history that spans centuries. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Creek and Cherokee tribes, who had a significant presence in the region before European exploration and settlement.

The county was officially established on December 18, 1832, and was named after the Creek word "Talatigi," meaning "border town." Settlers were attracted to the area by its fertile lands and proximity to the Coosa River, which provided transportation and trade opportunities.

During the 19th century, Talladega County experienced significant growth and development, with the discovery of iron ore and limestone deposits. This led to the establishment of numerous iron furnaces and factories, making the county a hub for the iron industry. The ironworks provided employment opportunities and brought economic prosperity to the region.

In addition to its industrial growth, Talladega County played a significant role in the Civil Rights Movement. The city of Talladega was home to the historically black Talladega College, which became a center for education and activism. Civil rights leaders such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks visited the county as part of their efforts to fight for racial equality.

Today, Talladega County is known for its diverse economy, including agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. The county continues to preserve its historical landmarks, such as the Talladega Courthouse Square Historic District, which showcases the architectural charm of the area. With a blend of historical significance and modern development, Talladega County remains an integral part of Alabama's heritage.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Talladega County, Alabama.

  • 1805 - Talladega County is created by an Act of the Alabama Territorial Legislature.
  • 1834 - The county seat is established in the newly founded town of Talladega.
  • 1861-1865 - Talladega County residents take part in the American Civil War, with many joining the Confederate Army.
  • 1883 - The Alabama Girl's Industrial School (now known as Alabama State University) is established in Talladega.
  • 1904 - The Talladega Superspeedway, a famous NASCAR racetrack, is built in the county.
  • 1933 - Talladega National Forest is established, providing recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.
  • 1965 - The Voting Rights Act is signed into law, leading to increased political participation and representation for African Americans in Talladega County.