Horseshoe Bend National Military Park
a.k.a. Horseshoe Bend Battlefield
Tallapoosa River, 12 mi. N of Dadeville on AL 49, Dadeville, AL Local significance of the district:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1966.
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.
In the early 19th century, European settlers began to enter the area and establish towns. The city of Dadeville was founded in 1837 and became the county seat of Tallapoosa County. As more settlers arrived, the county's population grew rapidly, primarily through agriculture and the production of cotton.
During the American Civil War, Tallapoosa County played a significant role. It was a strategic location, as the railroad passing through the county connected Montgomery and Atlanta. The county experienced battles and skirmishes as Union and Confederate forces vied for control of the area. After the war, the county faced a challenging period of reconstruction and the gradual shift from agriculture to industry.
In the 20th century, Tallapoosa County saw significant advancements and changes. The construction of Lake Martin in the 1920s provided opportunities for recreation and tourism, boosting the county's economy. The county also became more industrialized, with the growth of factories and manufacturing facilities. Today, Tallapoosa County continues to thrive, blending its historical roots with modern development and providing a diverse array of cultural, economic, and natural attractions for visitors and residents alike.
Tallapoosa County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Tallapoosa County, Alabama.
- 1770s: The Creek Native American tribe occupies the land.
- 1814: Treaty of Fort Jackson is signed, opening the area for settlement.
- 1832: Tallapoosa County is officially established.
- 1834-1835: Construction of the first courthouse in Dadeville.
- 1861-1865: Tallapoosa County citizens fight in the American Civil War.
- 1935: Lake Martin is created as part of a hydroelectric project.
- 1965-1966: The filming of "To Kill a Mockingbird" takes place in Dadeville.
- 1990: Completion of the Horseshoe Bend National Military Park visitor center.