National Register Listings in Escambia County, Alabama
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.
About Escambia County
Escambia County Timeline
Escambia County, Alabama has a rich and diverse history. The region that is now known as Escambia County was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Creek and Choctaw. European settlers began arriving in the area in the early 1800s, with the establishment of Fort Crawford in 1819 as a trading post. The county was officially created in 1868, named after the Escambia River.
During the mid-19th century, Escambia County experienced a boom in agriculture, particularly cotton. The fertile soil and favorable climate made it an ideal location for farmers to grow and harvest cotton. The county became an important center for cotton production and trading, attracting wealthy plantation owners and merchants.
Escambia County, like much of the South, was heavily affected by the Civil War. Many of its residents joined the Confederate army, with some of the bloodiest battles taking place in and around the county. The aftermath of the war brought significant changes to the area, including economic and social reconstruction.
In the 20th century, Escambia County focused on diversifying its economy beyond agriculture. The timber industry played a prominent role, with large-scale logging and lumber mills driving the local economy. The discovery of oil and natural gas in the 1940s further stimulated economic growth in the county. Today, Escambia County continues to thrive with a mix of agriculture, timber, and manufacturing industries, while preserving its historical significance through landmarks and museums.
During the mid-19th century, Escambia County experienced a boom in agriculture, particularly cotton. The fertile soil and favorable climate made it an ideal location for farmers to grow and harvest cotton. The county became an important center for cotton production and trading, attracting wealthy plantation owners and merchants.
Escambia County, like much of the South, was heavily affected by the Civil War. Many of its residents joined the Confederate army, with some of the bloodiest battles taking place in and around the county. The aftermath of the war brought significant changes to the area, including economic and social reconstruction.
In the 20th century, Escambia County focused on diversifying its economy beyond agriculture. The timber industry played a prominent role, with large-scale logging and lumber mills driving the local economy. The discovery of oil and natural gas in the 1940s further stimulated economic growth in the county. Today, Escambia County continues to thrive with a mix of agriculture, timber, and manufacturing industries, while preserving its historical significance through landmarks and museums.
Escambia County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Escambia County, Alabama.
- 1818 - Escambia County, Alabama, is established as one of the original counties of the state.
- 1820 - The county seat is established in the town of Brewton.
- 1825 - The first recorded land sale occurs in the county.
- 1861-1865 - Escambia County, like the rest of the South, is heavily impacted by the American Civil War.
- 1908 - The first car arrives in Escambia County.
- 1936 - The Alabama State Docks and Terminal Railroad opens, improving transportation in the county.
- 1961 - The state's first public junior college is established in Brewton as Jefferson Davis State Junior College.
- 1998 - Jefferson Davis Community College is renamed Coastal Alabama Community College.
- 2018 - Escambia County celebrates its bicentennial anniversary.