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Lowndesboro, Alabama

Lowndesboro is a town in Lowndes County, Alabama, United States. At the 2010 census the population was 115, down from 140 in 2000. It is part of the Montgomery Metropolitan Statistical Area. Although initially incorporated in 1856 by an act of the state legislature, it lapsed and was not reincorporated until 1962.

As of the 2000 and 2010 U.S. Censuses, Lowndesboro, along with Benton, are the only two towns (out of 7) in Lowndes County with a white majority of residents. Both are the 6th (Lowndesboro) and 7th (Benton) smallest communities.

History
Originally known as McGill's Hill, the community began attracting settlers following the conclusion of the Creek War. In 1832, the residents changed the name to Lowndesboro in honor of U.S. Congressman William Lowndes, the son of Rawlins Lowndes, an early South Carolina governor.

With its proximity to the Alabama River, the community had grown into a prosperous town by the 1830s. Many wealthy planters settled in the area, leaving a legacy of historic mid-19th-century architecture that largely survived intact into the modern era. A brief skirmish was fought at Lowndesboro in April 1865 between a group of Confederate cavalry and advance troops of the Union Army during Wilson's Raid. Federal troops occupied the town after driving off the Confederate force, with very little destruction noted from the occupation, thus preserving many of the antebellum houses and structures in the Lowndesboro Historic District.

Like many small Southern communities with an economy based on cotton production and trade, Lowndesboro declined rapidly in the post-war years. At least partially attributed to this decline was the survival of much of the pre-war architecture into the 20th century, making it a unique assemblage of 19th-century architecture. Today much of the town is included in the Lowndesboro Historic District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Dicksonia Plantation ruins are also a notable place of interest.

Lowndesboro was the site of a number of significant events in the civil rights movement. On March 25, 1965, civil rights worker Viola Liuzzo was shot to death during a high-speed chase by Ku Klux Klan members on U.S. Route 80, while driving to Montgomery to pick up a group of demonstrators waiting to return to Selma after the Selma-to-Montgomery march. The Klansmen spotted the white Liuzzo and her black passenger, Leroy Moton, at a stoplight in Selma, catching up to the pair about two miles (3 km) west of Lowndesboro.

In 1966, a number of Lowndes County African-American families were evicted from their homes in retaliation for their participation in the movement. Twenty of these families set up a tent city outside of Lowndesboro rather than flee the area.

Geography
Lowndesboro is located at 32.27306°N, -86.61°W (32.273118, -86.609915). According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 0.8 sqmi, all land.

Demographics
Lowndesboro (also spelled as Lowndesborough in the 19th century) appeared on the 1850 and 1880 U.S. Census records (and acknowledged in the 1890 records, but not separately returned). It did not appear again until 1970. In 1880, it was the largest town in the county with 472 residents, ahead of Fort Deposit (350) and White Hall (168), the only two other communities separately returned.

As of the census of 2000, there were 140 people, 58 households, and 40 families residing in the town. The population density was 176.0 PD/sqmi. There were 62 housing units at an average density of 77.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 71.43% White, 25.00% Black or African American, 1.43% from other races, and 2.14% from two or more races. 3.57% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 58 households, out of which 29.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 55.2% were married couples living together, 12.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 31.0% were non-families. 29.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 20.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.41 and the average family size was 2.98.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 27.1% under the age of 18, 4.3% from 18 to 24, 27.9% from 25 to 44, 17.1% from 45 to 64, and 23.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 42 years. For every 100 females, there were 94.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 88.9 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $27,917, and the median income for a family was $35,833. Males had a median income of $23,750 versus $41,250 for females. The per capita income for the town was $17,101. There were 16.0% of families and 29.7% of the population living below the poverty line, including 39.4% of under eighteens and 38.6% of those over 64.

Education

 * Private schools
 * Lowndes Academy

Notable people

 * Noble C. Powell, prominent leader in the Episcopal Church in the United States of America
 * Rick Pate, former mayor of Lowndesboro, and current Commissioner of Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries

title: Lowndesboro, Alabama


text:
Mosses, Alabama

Mosses is a town in Lowndes County, Alabama, United States. At the 2010 census the population was 1,029, down from 1,101 in 2000. It is part of the Montgomery Metropolitan Statistical Area. It incorporated in 1979.

Geography
Mosses is located at 32.17306°N, -86.67722°W (32.173120, -86.677296).

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 4.8 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
At the 2010 census there were 1,029 people, 369 households, and 270 families in the town. The population density was 214.4 PD/sqmi. There were 409 housing units at an average density of 85.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 97.9% Black or African American, 1.5% White, 0.0% Native American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.1% from two or more races. 1.8% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race. Of the 369 households 23.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 24.1% were married couples living together, 42.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 26.8% were non-families. 25.5% of households were one person and 6.5% were one person aged 65 or older. The average household size was 2.79 and the average family size was 3.38.

The age distribution was 26.7% under the age of 18, 11.4% from 18 to 24, 25.3% from 25 to 44, 26.4% from 45 to 64, and 10.2% 65 or older. The median age was 34.7 years. For every 100 females, there were 86.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 88.1 males.

The median household income was $13,750 and the median family income was $16,319. Males had a median income of $19,583 versus $25,833 for females. The per capita income for the town was $8,053. About 53.4% of families and 55.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 65.1% of those under age 18 and 51.1% of those age 65 or over.

2000 census
At the 2000 census there were 1,101 people, 364 households, and 281 families in the town. The population density was 230.1 PD/sqmi. There were 421 housing units at an average density of 88.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 97.82% Black or African American, 1.18% White, 0.09% Native American, 0.09% Asian, and 0.82% from two or more races. 0.45% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race. Of the 364 households 44.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 25.5% were married couples living together, 45.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 22.8% were non-families. 20.6% of households were one person and 3.6% were one person aged 65 or older. The average household size was 3.02 and the average family size was 3.50.

The age distribution was 34.6% under the age of 18, 12.9% from 18 to 24, 27.2% from 25 to 44, 17.2% from 45 to 64, and 8.2% 65 or older. The median age was 27 years. For every 100 females, there were 84.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 74.8 males.

The median household income was $17,031 and the median family income was $22,273. Males had a median income of $21,528 versus $16,771 for females. The per capita income for the town was $8,268. About 39.0% of families and 43.0% of the population were below the poverty line, including 54.4% of those under age 18 and 35.9% of those age 65 or over.

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: Mosses, Alabama


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White Hall, Alabama

White Hall is a town in Lowndes County, Alabama, United States. The community was named for a plantation that was destroyed in an 1882 tornado. At the 2010 census the population was 858, down from its record high of 1,014 in 2000. It is part of the Montgomery Metropolitan Statistical Area.

It was established during the Great Depression in 1935 as a New Deal project under the Resettlement Administration, similar to the town of Skyline. Because of Southern racial segregation, White Hall was intended for the African-American majority population in the area. The town did not incorporate until 1979.

Geography
White Hall is located at 32.31389°N, -86.71389°W (32.313866, -86.714019).

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 15.5 sqmi, of which 15.5 sqmi is land and 0.1 sqmi (0.39%) is water.

2000 Census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,014 people, 361 households, and 266 families residing in the town. The population density was 65.6 PD/sqmi. There were 398 housing units at an average density of 25.7 per square mile (9.9/km$2$). The racial makeup of the town was 98.03% Black or African American, 1.38% White, 0.10% Native American, 0.20% Asian, and 0.30% from two or more races. 0.79% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 361 households, out of which 40.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 33.5% were married couples living together, 35.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 26.3% were non-families. 23.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.81 and the average family size was 3.33.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 32.4% under the age of 18, 10.1% from 18 to 24, 25.7% from 25 to 44, 20.8% from 45 to 64, and 10.9% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 31 years. For every 100 females, there were 77.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 70.8 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $18,158, and the median income for a family was $21,875. Males had a median income of $20,885 versus $18,125 for females. The per capita income for the town was $10,062. About 29.4% of families and 31.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 35.8% of those under age 18 and 47.5% of those age 65 or over.

Notable people

 * Ben Wallace, NBA basketball player

title: White Hall, Alabama


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Franklin, Alabama

Franklin is a rural town in Macon County, Alabama, United States. As of the 2020 census, the population was 590.

History and educational legacy
The Muscogee (Creek) people had long been cultivating lands in this area, producing crops of maize, squash and beans (the Three Sisters), and tobacco, used primarily for ritual purposes. Osceola (1804-1838), who became well known as a leader of the Seminole people in Florida, was born to a Creek woman at Red Creek, 10 miles from the Tallapoosa River. He was of mixed race but identified as Creek; the people have a matrilineal kinship system.

Franklin has been home to many churches for more than 200 years. In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, a Methodist Missionary Church operated here for the Creek. It had two cemeteries, one for whites and one for the Creek. James McQueen, a Scots trader who lived here and married a Creek woman, was great-grandfather of Osceola. McQueen is buried in the Indian cemetery.

After the Creek were forced to cede their lands, European Americans developed the area for cotton cultivation. They depended on the labor of enslaved African Americans, many of whom were initially transported to this region from the Upper South in the domestic slave trade. Cotton continued as the chief commodity crop after the Civil War.

Residents established Franklin School by the 1890s, teaching grades 1–11 of white students. By the mid-1930s, the upper grades had been moved to another facility, and it held grades 1–6. Northern and southern classrooms were adjoined by a common auditorium. The school's original water source was a spring near the buildings. A well was later dug in the front yard of the school, with a hand pump to get water. Heat was provided by a wood-burning potbelly stove. Each student brought a stick of wood every morning to burn in the stove.

The school closed in 1942, and its 75–80 students transferred to Tuskegee schools. After the school closed, the northern classroom was moved to its current location and converted to a community center. The rest of the school was torn down.

In the mid-20th century, musician Hank Williams Sr. often performed at dances at the community center. Upon Franklin's incorporation in 1977, the town began using the community center building as the town hall. A mile north of Town Hall lay the remnants of what is rumored to be the first school in Macon County.

Harris Barrett School was built in 1903 with handmade bricks made by students of the Tuskegee Normal School (now Tuskegee University), under the direction of Booker T. Washington. In the segregated system of public facilities, the Barrett School was reserved for African-American students, who were mostly descendants of freedmen in this rural area. Both the Barrett School and the Tuskegee Institute played a major role in education in the Franklin community. They operated an experimental farm on the west side of Baldwin Farm Road. Booker T. Washington and George Washington Carver were both active in farming in Franklin, and assisted farmers both black and white. Harris Barrett School was restored and is operated as a historic museum; it is located at the corner of Co. Rd. 27 and 36.

Geography
Franklin is located at 32.45528°N, -85.80278°W (32.455388, -85.802884).

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 3.34 sqmi, all land.

2020 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 145 people, 59 households, and 44 families residing in the town. The population density was 43 /mi2. There were 73 housing units at an average density of 18.0 /mi2. The racial makeup of the town was 56.38% Black or African American and 43.62% White. 0.67% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 59 households, of which 28.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 51.6% were married couples living together, 15.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 25.0% were non-families. 21.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.33 and the average family size was 2.69.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 20.1% under the age of 18, 10.7% from 18 to 24, 18.1% from 25 to 44, 33.6% from 45 to 64, and 17.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 47 years. For every 100 females, there were 96.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 88.9 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $45,923, and the median income for a family was $53,111. Males had a median income of $43,840 versus $40,744 for females. The per capita income for the town was $45,495. 4.9% of the population were living below the poverty line. 9.7% of those were over the age of 64.

Government
The Town of Franklin is a mayor-council form of government with a mayor and 5 councilpersons which are elected every four years. The town operates its own police department, volunteer fire department, as well as water system.

Mayor Henry Peavy, Mayor Pro-Temp David Clinkscales, Council Members Alvin Sears, Memphis Boston, Rheba Knoxx, Robert T. Perry

Town Clerk/Treasurer Micha Segrest

Chief of Police James Chris Johnson, Jr.

Fire Chief Scott Cooper

title: Franklin, Alabama


text:
Shorter, Alabama

Shorter is a town in Macon County, Alabama, United States. At the 2020 census the population was 385, down from 474 at the 2010 census. According to the 1990 U.S. Census records, it was incorporated in 1984.

Geography
Shorter is located in western Macon County at 32.40139°N, -85.94333°W, along U.S. Route 80. It is 24 mi east of Montgomery, the state capital, and 15 mi west of Tuskegee.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Shorter has a total area of 11.8 km2, of which 0.07 sqkm, or 0.60%, are water. The center of town lies on a low ridge which drains south to Cubahatchee Creek and north to Calebee Creek, both of which are west-flowing tributaries of the Tallapoosa River.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 355 people, 121 households, and 93 families residing in the town. The population density was 206.1 PD/sqmi. There were 133 housing units at an average density of 77.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 82% Black or African American, 16% White, 1% Native American, and 1% from two or more races.

There were 121 households, out of which 36% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 42% were married couples living together, 30% had a female householder with no husband present, and 23% were non-families. 21% of all households were made up of individuals, and 7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.93 and the average family size was 3.45.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 33% under the age of 18, 8% from 18 to 24, 31% from 25 to 44, 20% from 45 to 64, and 8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 33 years. For every 100 females, there were 81.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 80.3 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $18,929, and the median income for a family was $37,188. Males had a median income of $26,667 versus $17,000 for females. The per capita income for the town was $10,630. About 28% of families and 31% of the population were below the poverty line, including 47% of those under age 18 and 43% of those age 65 or over.

Notable persons

 * Morris Dees, co-founder and chief trial counsel for the Southern Poverty Law Center

title: Shorter, Alabama


text:
Tuskegee, Alabama

Tuskegee is a city in Macon County, Alabama, United States. General Thomas Simpson Woodward, a Creek War veteran under Andrew Jackson, laid out the city and founded it in 1833. It became the county seat in the same year and it was incorporated in 1843. It is the most populous city in Macon County. At the 2020 census the population was 9,395, down from 9,865 in 2010 and 11,846 in 2000.

Tuskegee has been important in African-American history and highly influential in United States history since the 19th century. Before the American Civil War the area was developed for cotton plantations, dependent on enslaved African-American people.

After the war many freedmen continued to work on plantations in the rural area, which was devoted to agriculture, primarily cotton as a commodity crop. In 1881 the Tuskegee Normal School (now Tuskegee University, a historically black college) was founded by Lewis Adams, a former slave whose father, Jesse Adams, a white slave owner had allowed him to be educated. Its first founding principal was Booker T. Washington, who developed a national reputation and philanthropic network to support education of freedmen and their children.

In 1923, the Tuskegee Veterans Administration Medical Center was established, initially for the estimated 300,000 African-American veterans of World War I in the South, when public facilities were racially segregated. Twenty-seven buildings were constructed on the 464-acre campus.

The city was the subject of a civil rights case, Gomillion v. Lightfoot (1960), in which the United States Supreme Court ruled that the state legislature had violated the Fifteenth Amendment in 1957 by gerrymandering city boundaries as a 28-sided figure that excluded nearly all black voters and residents, and none of the white voters or residents. The city's boundaries were restored in 1961 after the ruling.

Etymology
The name "Tuskegee" comes from Spanish "Tasquiqui", which came from the Muskogee word "Taskeke", meaning "warriors". The Native American town of Tasquique was located on the Chattahoochee River just south of present-day Columbus, Georgia.

History
The Creek people long occupied this area including a settlement known as Taskigi Town. After Congress passed the Indian Removal Act of 1830 in furtherance of President Andrew Jackson's goals, most of the Creek bands were removed from their homelands in the Southeast to Indian Territory west of the Mississippi River.

Pioneer white planters and other migrants moved into the area, mostly from eastern Southern states. The planters brought or purchased enslaved African Americans to clear woods and develop cotton plantations. Invention of the cotton gin had made short-staple cotton profitable to process and it became the chief commodity crop of the Deep South through the 19th century. Short-staple cotton could be cultivated in the upland areas of Georgia. Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana and Texas. Designated as the county seat of rural Macon County, Tuskegee developed as its only city.

Late 19th century
In 1881, the young Booker T. Washington was hired to develop the Tuskegee Normal School for Colored Teachers on the grounds of a former plantation. It was founded to train teachers for the segregated school system and freedmen for self-sufficiency. Washington established a work-study program by which students practiced skills and trades. Over the decades, the programs were expanded. This was later named the Tuskegee Institute. Graduate courses were added and it became Tuskegee University.

Washington was known for his emphasis on education and self-improvement. The institute became known for stressing a practical education with work experience by students, to prepare them for the agricultural and mechanical work available in the small towns and rural areas to which most would return. Teaching was a highly respected calling, as education was a major goal among the freedmen and their children. Washington believed that African Americans would achieve acceptance by Southern whites when they had raised themselves.

Washington led the school for decades, building a wide national network of white industrialist donors among some of the major philanthropists of the era, including George Eastman. At the same time, Washington secretly provided funding for its legal defense of some highly visible civil rights cases, including supporting challenges to Southern states' discriminatory constitutions and practices that disenfranchised African Americans. Washington worked with Julius Rosenwald and architects at the college to develop models for rural schools, to be used with Rosenwald's matching funds to build more schools for black children in the South.

Early 20th century
Beginning in 1932, the school was the site of the now-infamous Tuskegee Syphilis Study (1932–1972), started to test treatments of the disease. 600 African-American men became involved, being offered free medical care by the U.S. government for their participation, while being unwittingly tested for syphilis. With funding cut by the Great Depression, staff cut back on medication to treat the disease and studied the effects of untreated syphilis on patients and their sexual partners. Those in the study who had syphilis were not told, nor were they informed that treatment was available for their disease, even after antibiotics had been developed.

One of the most famous teachers at Tuskegee was George Washington Carver, whose name is synonymous with innovative research into Southern farming methods and the development of hundreds of commercial products derived from regional crops, including peanuts and sweet potatoes.

During World War II, Tuskegee and Tuskegee Institute were also home to the famed Tuskegee Airmen. This was the first squadron of African-American pilots trained in the U.S. Military for service in that war.

Tuskegee University in the 21st century is a center of excellence for African-American education. The heart of the university has been designated as a National Historic District and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974.

The Tuskegee Veterans Administration Medical Center was opened in 1923, authorized by Congress. A total of 27 buildings were constructed on the 464-acre campus, which provided housing and a hospital to serve the needs of more than 300,000 African-American veterans in the South from World War I. It attracted doctors from top schools, such as Dr. Toussaint Tourgee Tildon, a graduate of Harvard Medical School. He was one of the first six African-American doctors to work at the hospital; as director of the complex for 12 years (1946–1958), he achieved accreditation for a medical residency program at the hospital. He also worked to ensure accessibility for graduates to good medical positions in the federal government.

In the 1930s, a group of black men from the Tuskegee Men's Club began efforts to get more black voters registered. Beginning in 1941, the group reorganized under the name the Tuskegee Civic Association (TCA). With the group's consistent effort to register more voters, the area's statistics of registered black voters continued to increase. The group and potential voters were often met with obstacles that prevented them from being successful. The surrounding black community showed support and wanted to recognize black leaders in the community. The work of the TCA also had a huge emphasis on educating their communities on various civic duties. Though the existing support for the TCA was not often vocalized, many black community members wanted to challenge the political system that was present in Macon County. The group shed a light on the disparities in the numbers of black people applying for voter registration and those who were successful, even going as far as talking to the United States Commission on Civil Rights.

Voting rights challenge
Following passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1957, activists made progress in registering black voters in the city. African Americans in Tuskegee and other Alabama cities had been largely disenfranchised after passage of a new state constitution in 1901, which included requirements that were discriminatory in practice, including a poll tax and literacy tests.

In 1957, a total of 1000 voters were registered, with the 400 registered black voters nearly equaling the number of white voters. But in the city, African Americans outnumbered whites on a four-to-one basis; among them were many highly educated, professional African Americans working at the Tuskegee Institute and the Veterans Administration hospital. That year, without debate and against the protests of many African Americans, the state legislature redrew the boundaries of the city, enacting Local Law 140, which created an irregular, 28-sided city boundary that left only ten black voters within the newly defined city, and excluded 420 black voters. Those excluded included the entire professional staff of the Institute and the hospital. No white voters were excluded by the change.

The law was intended to guarantee that minority whites could retain control of the city even if more blacks succeeded in the arduous process of registering to vote. Some 3,000 African-American residents protested passage of the law at a church in Tuskegee; they also began an economic boycott of white businesses in the city. They referred to the boycott as a "selective buying campaign" due to the fact that boycotting was illegal under state law. It lasted about four years, during which twenty-six businesses operated by white proprietors closed down.

African Americans also organized a legal challenge to the law, supported by the NAACP, in a case known as Gomillion v. Lightfoot. The law was initially upheld by the US District Court and affirmed by the Appeals Court based in New Orleans. However, it was struck down by the US Supreme Court in 1960, with the ruling implemented in 1961. The court ruled that the gerrymandering of city boundaries was racially motivated and violated the Fifteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution which states that "states were not insulated from federal judicial review when they jeopardized federally protected rights." The exclusionary gerrymandering was overturned and the previous boundaries of the city were restored.

This case was cited in the later Baker v. Carr (1964), in which the Supreme Court ruled that Tennessee's malapportionment of election districts violated civil rights. It ruled that representation in both houses of all state legislatures had to be based on population, under the "one man, one vote" doctrine, and that such districts had to be regularly updated to reflect population changes.

Post-Gomillion
In 1963, Tuskegee was to have been the first Alabama community to comply with a federal order to desegregate its public schools. The school superintendent, C.A. (Hardboy) Pruitt, at first opposed the admission of Black students, but worked with other community leaders to comply with the final order of the federal district court, with plans to admit 13 Black students in September 1963 to what had been an all-white high school. But Gov. George Wallace opposed compliance with the federal order anywhere in the state on the grounds that it would lead to violence. Behind the scenes, Wallace enlisted the aid of Ku Klux Klan members and neo-Nazis of the National States' Rights Party to gin up protests calling for the closing of schools that were scheduled to integrate. Wallace subsequently ordered public schools closed across the state and deployed state troopers on September 3, 1963, to block the opening of Tuskegee High School. The school was integrated on September 10, 1963, after President John F. Kennedy federalized the Alabama National Guard and 13 Black students were among only 165 students to begin the school year, against a total enrollment of about 550.

Johnny Ford was elected the first black mayor of the city in 1972, and served six consecutive terms in office. Lucenia Williams Dunn was elected the first black woman mayor in 2000.

Governance
In the 21st century, Tuskegee has a council–manager government led by a four-member city council, a mayor, and an appointed city manager.

The city council acts as a legislative body of the city, passing laws and regulations and appointing citizens to the city's various boards. Each member of the city council is elected for a four-year term from one of three geographic single-member districts. Tuskegee has one city council member who is elected at-large to a four-year term and serves as mayor-pro tem. The duties of the mayor are to promote the city, communicate with residents, and preside over City Council meetings. As such, the position of mayor in Tuskegee is primarily ceremonial.

Geography
Tuskegee is located in central Macon County at 32.43139°N, -85.70667°W (32.431506, −85.706781).

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 44.9 km2, of which 44.2 km2 are land and 0.7 km2, or 1.56%, are water.

Climate
According to the Köppen climate classification, Tuskegee has a humid subtropical climate (abbreviated Cfa).

Attractions
Downtown Tuskegee includes aspects of history in Tuskegee/Macon County from the time of incorporation to the present. It also has a site serving as the Tuskegee Visitor Center and is home to the Tuskegee Human & Civil Rights Multicultural Center.

Tuskegee area attractions include:
 * Tuskegee University and the Tuskegee Institute National Historic Site (including the Oaks, Grey Columns, and George Washington Carver Museum)
 * Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site @ Historic Moton Field
 * Main Street Historic District and North Main Street Historic District
 * The Tuskegee Human & Civil Rights Multicultural Center
 * Butler Chapel A.M.E. Zion Church, site of protests against 1957 state gerrymandering of the city
 * Tuskegee Veterans Administration Medical Center
 * The Tuskegee Repertory Theatre/Jessie Clinton Arts Center
 * Tuskegee City Lake
 * Tuskegee National Forest··
 * Kirks Old Farm Museum

Demographics
The table at right shows the effects of the state passing a law in 1957 to redefine the city of Tuskegee in a way that excluded nearly all black residents, dramatically reducing the population by 1960. The city and other officials were sued under Gomillion v. Lightfoot (1960); the US Supreme Court ruled against the state's action. The city boundaries were reinstituted, as reflected by the dramatic "increase" of population in the city recorded in 1970. The population in 1960, with the restored borders, was 7,240, according to the 1970 U.S. Census. Because of lack of economic opportunities in the largely rural area, both the city and rural county have lost population since the late 20th century.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 9,865 people, 3,749 households, and 1,956 families residing in the city. The population density was 636.5 PD/sqmi. There were 4,624 housing units at an average density of 298.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 95.8% Black or African American, 1.9% White, 0.1% Native American, 0.5% Asian, 0.0% Pacific Islander, 0.3% from other races, and 1.3% from two or more races. 1.3% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 3,749 households, out of which 21.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 19.0% were married couples living together, 28.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 47.8% were non-families. 40.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.17 and the average family size was 2.96.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 18.5% under the age of 18, 27.8% from 18 to 24, 18.9% from 25 to 44, 21.7% from 45 to 64, and 13.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 27.6 years. For every 100 females, there were 78.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 75.6 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $24,251, and the median income for a family was $43,472. Males had a median income of $40,653 versus $26,631 for females. The per capita income for the city was $15,471. About 22.2% of families and 31.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including 40.0% of those under age 18 and 10.2% of those age 65 or over.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States Census, there were 9,395 people, 2,936 households, and 1,470 families residing in the city.

Media
Tuskegee has one weekly newspaper, The Tuskegee News, which has operated since 1865.

Transportation
U.S. Route 29 and U.S. Route 80 pass through Tuskegee. State Route 81 goes north from the town. Four miles north up Route 81 is the interchange with Interstate 85.

A short distance beyond I-85 is the hamlet of Chehaw, where Southern Railway passenger trains made stops at the Western Railway of Alabama Depot. Into the mid-1960s both the Southern's Crescent and its Piedmont Limited made stops at the depot. The railway's Crescent was the last train to make stops at the station. The Southern Railway moved the train out in 1970 for a rerouting from an Atlanta-Montgomery-New Orleans itinerary to an Atlanta-Birmingham-New Orleans itinerary.

Notable people

 * Ajiona Alexus, actress; born in Tuskegee
 * George Washington Carver, agricultural scientist, died in Tuskegee in 1943
 * Sadie Peterson Delaney, chief librarian of the Veterans Administration Hospital
 * Tom Joyner, radio host/personality; born in Tuskegee and went to Tuskegee University
 * Nella Larsen, nurse, librarian, and novelist; worked at Tuskegee Institute in 1915
 * Rosa Parks, born in Tuskegee; she became a civil rights activist in the 1950s in Montgomery, Alabama, contributing to the more than year-long Montgomery bus boycott that achieved desegregation of the city system
 * Lionel Richie, rhythm & blues singer, songwriter, musician, record producer, and occasional actor; born in Tuskegee
 * Robin Roberts, news anchor, Good Morning America; born in Tuskegee
 * Rory White, basketball player
 * Bill Winston, pastor, televangelist, author and entrepreneur; born in Tuskegee
 * Sammy Younge Jr., civil rights activist; born in Tuskegee

Sister cities

 * 🇺🇸 South Berwick, Maine, USA

title: Tuskegee, Alabama


text:
Gurley, Alabama

Gurley is a town in Madison County, Alabama, United States, and is included in the Huntsville-Decatur Combined Statistical Area. As of the 2020 census, the population of the town was 816.

History
The community takes its name from the Gurley family, who settled in the area in 1817. The town gradually formed around a water and coaling stop of the Memphis & Charleston Railroad and was originally known as "Gurley's Tank". In 1866, the post office opened, and the name was changed to "Gurleysville"; it was later shortened back to Gurley. Gurley was incorporated in 1891 with 250 residents. Soon after, the population peaked at 1,000. The business district was nearly destroyed by fire in 1923, when a bucket brigade was able to save only two businesses. Most of the town is now included in the Gurley Historic District, which was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2004.

Geography
Gurley is located in eastern Madison County at 34.70028°N, -86.37639°W (34.700164, −86.376469), along U.S. Route 72. Huntsville is 16 mi to the west, and Scottsboro is 26 mi to the east.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Gurley has a total area of 9.2 km2, all land.

Demographics
Note: From the 1940 Census until 1970, Gurley ceased to appear on the census rolls. This was likely due to either disincorporation or loss/lapse of its charter in the 1930s. At some point in the 1960s, it was reincorporated. Gurley had a estimated population of 833 people in 2024.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 876 people, 346 households, and 241 families residing in the town. The population density was 313.9 PD/sqmi. There were 379 housing units at an average density of 135.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 81.85% White, 15.41% Black or African American, 0.46% Native American, 0.34% Asian, 0.57% from other races, and 1.37% from two or more races. 2.05% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 346 households, out of which 34.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 48.0% were married couples living together, 17.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 30.1% were non-families. 26.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.53 and the average family size was 3.09.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 28.5% under the age of 18, 7.8% from 18 to 24, 27.1% from 25 to 44, 21.3% from 45 to 64, and 15.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 35 years. For every 100 females, there were 86.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 85.8 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $23,831, and the median income for a family was $26,875. Males had a median income of $31,146 versus $20,000 for females. The per capita income for the town was $13,271. About 23.4% of families and 21.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 28.3% of those under age 18 and 31.1% of those age 65 or over.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 816 people, 253 households, and 153 families residing in the town.

Public services
As an incorporated town, Gurley has its own police and fire departments. The city also maintains a small sewer system.

Education
Education in Gurley is run by the Madison County School System. Only one K–8 school (Madison County Elementary) operates within the city limits, in the building formerly occupied by Madison County High School. A new Madison County High School was built a few miles west of the town on US 72 in 1999.

Fraternal
Gurley has its own Masonic Lodge (Gurley Lodge #521 F & AM), a Lions Club, a Lioness Club, and a Founders Club.

Notable people

 * Graham Ashcraft, professional baseball player
 * Clement Claiborne Clay, United States senator and Confederate States senator
 * Lena Styles, professional baseball player
 * Jordan Chunn, professional football player

title: Gurley, Alabama


text:
Harvest, Alabama

Harvest is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) in the northwestern part of Madison County, Alabama, United States, and is included in the Huntsville-Decatur Combined Statistical Area. According to the 2020 U.S. Census, the population of the community is 5,893.

History
From the late 1800s through the early 1900s, Harvest saw growth and development resulting from the construction and operation of a rail line southward from Fayetteville, Tennessee. The Nashville, Chattanooga & St. Louis (NC&StL) Railway eventually acquired the rail line. In the early-to-mid-1900s, Harvest was centered around the railroad between the communities of Capshaw (the line's terminus) and Toney. Many early settlers in the Harvest area were from the Fayetteville area. In 1929, the NC&StL abandoned the line, pulled up the rails and transferred the right-of-way to the Madison County Highway Department with a quitclaim deed. Today, that roadbed is a two-lane roadway that continues to serve as a vital link in the modern day-to-day transportation network, and carries the appropriate name, “Old Railroad Bed Road.”

On April 3, 1974, during the 1974 Super Outbreak, two F5 tornadoes struck the community within 30 minutes of each other. Most of Harvest, primarily along the Old Railroad Bed Road area, and other nearby communities, including Tanner, was destroyed. Fifty people were killed by the tornadoes.

Harvest was hit by another violent tornado on May 18, 1995, that devastated the Anderson Hills subdivision. This F4 tornado killed one person.

On April 27, 2011, during the 2011 Super Outbreak, Harvest suffered significant damage from the EF5 tornado that destroyed the towns of Hackleburg and Phil Campbell, primarily north of Nick Davis Road, situated between Old Railroad Bed Road and Wall Triana Highway. The Anderson Hills subdivision was once again devastated, and damage in Harvest was rated EF4. The tornado killed 72 people along its path.

On March 2, 2012, during the tornado outbreak of March 2–3, 2012, Harvest suffered yet another direct hit from a damaging tornado, this one rated EF3. It hit the same area as the April 27, 2011, tornado, though no fatalities occurred this time. Some of the houses being rebuilt from the previous outbreak were destroyed again.

Geography
Harvest is located at 34.85278°N, -86.74806°W (34.852827, -86.748047).

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the community has a total area of 12.4 sqmi, all land.

Capshaw Mountain (1,250 feet above sea level) is the only notable geological feature in the area, which extends about 800 feet above the general elevation in the area. The top of this small mountain is the site of several substantial communications towers used by local radio stations. Capshaw Mountain forms a watershed that provides the water supply for the community.

Demographics
The population was estimated to be 6,934 in 2024.

2000 census
The 2000 census lists 3,054 people, 1,092 households, and 898 families living in the community. The population density was 245.8 PD/sqmi. There were 1,146 housing units at an average density of 92.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the community was 76.56% white, 18.76% Black or African American, 1.28% Native American, 1.11% Asian, 0.20% other races, and 2.10% listing two or more races. Slightly less than one percent (0.98%) of the population was Hispanic or Latino of any race. Of the 1,092 households, 39.9% had children under age 18 living with them, 72.5% were married couples living together, 7.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 17.7% were non-families. 15.8% of households were one person, while 5.0% were one person age 65 or older. The average household size was 2.8 and the average family size was 3.13.

The age distribution was 28.6% under age 18, 5.6% ages 18 to 24, 34.3% ages 25 to 44, 23.6% ages 45 to 64, and 8.0% 65 and older. The median age was 36. For every 100 females, there were 102.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and older, there were 97.5 males.

The median household income was $61,319, and the median family income was $64,519. Males had a median income of $46,813 versus $30,114 for females. The per capita income for the community was $23,322. About 6.8% of families and 8.0% of the population were below the poverty line, including 7.2% of those under age 18, and 4.2% of those ages 65 and over.

2010 census
The 2010 census lists 5,281 people, 1,882 households, and 1,512 families living in the community. The population density was 246.3 PD/sqmi. There were 1,976 housing units at an average density of 159.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the community was 62.2% white, 31.7% Black or African American, 0.5% Native American, 1.2% Asian, 1.1% other races, and 3.2% listing two or more races. Slightly more than three percent (3.1%) of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race. Of the 1,882 households, 38.9% had children under age 18 living with them, 62.8% were married couples living together, 12.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 19.7% were non-families. 16.4% of households were one person, and 4.3% were one person age 65 or older. The average household size was 2.81, and the average family size was 3.15.

The age distribution was 28.1% under age 18, 7.7% ages 18 to 24, 28.6% ages 25 to 44, 26.5% ages 45 to 64, and 9.2% ages 65 and older. The median age was 35.2. For every 100 females, there were 99.1 males. For every 100 females ages 18 and older, there were 94.1 males.

The median household income was $67,468, and the median family income was $70,536. Males had a median income of $48,995 versus $35,978 for females. The per capita income for the community was $28,619. About 1.2% of families and 3.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 4.0% of those under age 18, and 2.7% of those ages 65 and older.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 5,893 people, 2,043 households, and 1,642 families residing in the CDP.

Public services
The community is served by the Harvest-Monrovia Water and Sewer Authority. The water system maintains several large storage tanks and has a new water treatment facility.

The Madison County Sheriff's Department administers law and order in Harvest.

The Harvest Volunteer Fire Department consists of approximately 40 members serving the residents of West Central Madison County. The fire department has three stations that house five engines, along with other assorted rescue vehicles. Harvest is assisted by the Toney Volunteer Fire Department to the north, and Monrovia Volunteer Fire/Rescue to the south.

Education
The Madison County School System, the area school district, operates several schools in Harvest. Sparkman High School has a 2021 enrollment of 1,777 students in grades 10-12. Sparkman Ninth Grade School was constructed in 2007 across the street from Sparkman High. Combined, the two schools constitute one of the larger high schools in North Alabama. Middle school students in Harvest are zoned for either Monrovia Middle in the Monrovia community, or Sparkman Middle in Toney. There are also four elementary schools in Harvest/Monrovia: Harvest, Monrovia, Endeavor, and Legacy.

The Huntsville Madison County Public Library maintains a branch, the Monrovia Public Library, in the Monrovia Community Center on Allen Drake Drive near Phillips Park. This branch library is part of a well-supported community library system in Madison County.

Economy
The economy of Harvest depends a great deal on residential construction. In 2003, more than 650 new homes were built in Harvest and the adjacent Monrovia community. In addition, it is home to numerous small- and medium-sized businesses. Most residents work in the cities of Madison and Huntsville.

Retail trade is rapidly expanding with the construction of new retail stores and restaurants which coincide with continuing residential growth. The area's businesses serve a wide area, encompassing much of northwest Madison County and adjacent northeast Limestone County.

The 2021 opening of the nearby $2.3 billion Mazda Toyota Manufacturing plant will create up to 4,000 jobs, according to the company.

Notable people

 * Bruce Maxwell, Catcher for Oakland As
 * Steve Raby, 2010 Democratic nominee for U.S. Representative for Alabama's 5th congressional district
 * Derrick Stroup, stand-up comedian living in Denver, Colorado and has appeared on the Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon

title: Harvest, Alabama


text:
Hazel Green, Alabama

Hazel Green is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) in Madison County, Alabama, United States, and is included in the Huntsville-Decatur Combined Statistical Area. As of the 2020 census, the population of the community was 4,105, up from 3,630 at the 2010 census.

History
The town was named Hazel Green because of the hazel bushes along the road which were of a vibrant green color. In the early 19th century, several farmers from Georgia and the Carolinas settled in Hazel Green after discovering that the area had some of the richest soil in the Southeast. A post office was built in 1819 on the southeast corner of the intersection now known as Hwy. 231-431 and Joe Quick Road. Several grocers and rest stops were also built along this intersection. It became a bustling community and incorporated into a town on June 15, 1821, by an act of the state legislature, with a population of approximately 400. At the time, Hazel Green was a small, rural community that served as a crossroads. Roads connected Hazel Green with Athens to the west, Winchester, Tennessee, to the northeast, Huntsville to the south, and Nashville to the north. These roads intersected at what is now the intersection of US Highway 231/431, Joe Quick Road, and West Limestone Road.

On April 3, 1974, Hazel Green was hit by an F5 tornado during the 1974 Super Outbreak.

As of 2022, Hazel Green is currently undergoing a residential and retail boom, sparked by rampant job growth coming from nearby Huntsville. Hundreds of acres of generational farmland is quickly being replaced with houses, multi-family complexes, fast-food restaurant chains, and various other retail chains. The topic of incorporation to accommodate this sudden explosion of growth is becoming a popular discussion amongst existing residents.

Geography
Hazel Green is located in northern Madison County at 34.92361°N, -86.56722°W (34.923712, -86.567206). It is 15 mi north of Huntsville and the same distance south of Fayetteville, Tennessee. Hazel Green is bordered to the south by Meridianville and to the southeast by Moores Mill.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the Hazel Green CDP has a total area of 26.0 km2, of which 0.04 sqkm, or 0.13%, are water. The Flint River, a south-flowing tributary of the Tennessee River, runs along the northeast edge of the community.

Major roads

 * US 231.svg U.S. Route 231
 * US 431.svg U.S. Route 431

Demographics
Hazel Green had an estimated population of 4,291 people in 2024.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 3,805 people, 1,340 households, and 1,080 families residing in the community. The population density was 378.9 PD/sqmi. There were 1,394 housing units at an average density of 138.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the community was 93.56% White, 2.65% Black or African American, 1.31% Native American, 0.50% Asian, 0.03% Pacific Islander, 0.32% from other races, and 1.63% from two or more races. 1.76% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 1,340 households out of which 46.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 66.1% were married couples living together, 10.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 19.4% were non-families. 17.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 4.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.82 and the average family size was 3.18.

In the community, the population was spread out, with 31.3% under the age of 18, 7.1% from 18 to 24, 35.3% from 25 to 44, 18.7% from 45 to 64, and 7.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 33 years. For every 100 females, there were 98.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 95.4 males. The median income for a household in the community was $40,263, and the median income for a family was $45,174. Males had a median income of $33,005 versus $23,929 for females. The per capita income for the community was $18,397. About 4.2% of families and 6.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 4.8% of those under age 18 and 12.5% of those age 65 or over.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 3,630 people, 1,338 households, and 1,017 families residing in the community. The population density was 363 PD/sqmi. There were 1,434 housing units at an average density of 143.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the community was 88.9% White, 5.9% Black or African American, 1.5% Native American, 0.4% Asian, 0.1% Pacific Islander, 0.7% from other races, and 2.4% from two or more races. 2.3% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 1,338 households out of which 34.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 60.5% were married couples living together, 10.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 24.0% were non-families. 20.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 6.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.69 and the average family size was 3.11.

In the community, the population was spread out, with 26.2% under the age of 18, 7.9% from 18 to 24, 27.9% from 25 to 44, 27.5% from 45 to 64, and 10.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 37.5 years. For every 100 females, there were 96.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 98.4 males.

The median income for a household in the community was $48,822, and the median income for a family was $60,588. Males had a median income of $42,981 versus $30,990 for females. The per capita income for the community was $23,693. About 10.8% of families and 13.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including 16.4% of those under age 18 and 7.4% of those age 65 or over.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 4,105 people, 1,516 households, and 1,155 families residing in the CDP.

Public services
The Madison County Sheriff's Department administers law and order in Hazel Green.

The Hazel Green Fire/Rescue is a large volunteer fire department of approximately 40 members serving the residents of North Central Madison County. The fire department has 3 stations. The stations are located throughout the district in strategic locations. Station one, which houses the majority of all of the main rescue, EMS and firefighting equipment, is located at the intersection of Joe Quick Road and Highway 231-431N. Station two is located on Greenville Pike and Station three on Hill Chapel Road. Hazel Green Fire/Rescue outfits an apparatus of five engines, one attack truck (or "brush" truck), one rescue truck and two medical response vehicles. Hazel Green has a dedicated roster of individuals who hold credentials from firefighter I level, to FF 2, state licensed and nationally registered Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) and certified technical rescue personnel (vehicle, water and other special rescue missions).

Education
The local school district is Madison County Schools.

The Madison County School System currently runs three schools in Hazel Green. Kindergarten through third grade students attend Hazel Green Elementary School, Lynn Fanning Elementary, and Walnut Grove School. Fourth through sixth grade students attend Moores Mill Intermediate School. Seventh and eighth grade students in Hazel Green attend Meridianville Middle School located in Hazel Green. Hazel Green High School serves as a high school for ninth through twelfth grade students in Hazel Green, Meridianville, and parts of New Market and northern Huntsville. In September 2022, the Madison County School System announced the proposal of the construction of another school in Hazel Green by the 2024-2025 school years to accommodate new growth, and to prevent overcrowding in Hazel Green’s existing schools. The size, location, and grades to be housed in the proposed school have yet to be announced.

The Huntsville Madison County Public Library maintains a branch, the Tillman D. Hill Public Library, located on Knowledge Dr. behind Advance Auto Parts. This branch library is part of a very well supported community library system in Madison County.

Notable people

 * Jordan Beck, professional baseball player for the Colorado Rockies
 * Kira Lewis Jr., professional basketball player for the Utah Jazz
 * George Lindsey, actor who portrayed Goober Pyle on The Andy Griffith Show and Hee-Haw
 * Claire Lynch, bluegrass singer

title: Hazel Green, Alabama


text:
Meridianville, Alabama

Meridianville is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) in Madison County, Alabama, United States, and is included in the Huntsville–Decatur combined statistical area. As of the 2020 census, the population of the CDP was 8,209.

Geography
Meridianville is located in northern Madison County at 34.86944°N, -86.57833°W (34.869312, -86.578373). It is north of Huntsville and east of Harvest and is bordered by Hazel Green to the north and Moores Mill to the east. It is the third largest community in Madison County by population after Huntsville and Madison.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the Meridianville CDP has a total area of 15.6 mi2, of which 15.5 mi2 are land and 0.1 mi2, or 0.31%, are water.

Education
Meridianville is served by the following public schools:
 * Lynn Fanning Elementary (grades K-3)
 * Moores Mill Intermediate School (3-5 as of the 2023-2024 school year)
 * Meridianville Middle School (6-8 as of the 2023-2024 school year)
 * Hazel Green High School (9-12)

Demographics
Meridianville first appeared on the 1880 U.S. Census as an unincorporated community of 105 residents. It did not appear again on the census for a century (1980), when it was designated a census designated place (CDP). The population was 11,526 in 2024, making it the second fastest growing place in Madison county after Triana.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 4,117 people, 1,492 households, and 1,250 families living in the community. The population density was 263.0 PD/sqmi. There were 1,565 housing units at an average density of 100.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the community was 86.62% White, 9.40% Black or African American, 1.07% Native American, 0.73% Asian, 0.05% Pacific Islander, 0.19% from other races, and 1.94% from two or more races. 0.70% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 1,492 households, out of which 40.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 72.8% were married couples living together, 8.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 16.2% were non-families. 14.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 4.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.76 and the average family size was 3.05.

In the community, the population was spread out, with 27.5% under the age of 18, 6.3% from 18 to 24, 31.4% from 25 to 44, 25.1% from 45 to 64, and 9.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 97.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 96.1 males.

The median income for a household in the community was $54,766, and the median income for a family was $61,367. Males had a median income of $42,274 versus $29,241 for females. The per capita income for the community was $23,626. About 2.9% of families and 4.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 3.9% of those under age 18 and none of those age 65 or over.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 6,021 people, 2,248 households, and 1,743 families living in the community. The population density was 262.2 PD/sqmi. There were 2,353 housing units at an average density of 151.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the community was 76.3% White, 18.5% Black or African American, .7% Native American, 1.7% Asian, 0.2% Pacific Islander, 0.7% from other races, and 2.0% from two or more races. 2.7% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 2,248 households, out of which 33.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 63.7% were married couples living together, 10.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 22.5% were non-families. 19.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 6.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.68 and the average family size was 3.08.

In the community, the population was spread out, with 25.6% under the age of 18, 6.9% from 18 to 24, 26.5% from 25 to 44, 28.9% from 45 to 64, and 12.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38.9 years. For every 100 females, there were 93.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 91.4 males.

The median income for a household in the community was $68,864, and the median income for a family was $76,449. Males had a median income of $55,956 versus $36,100 for females. The per capita income for the community was $26,834. About 2.4% of families and 5.8% of the population were below the poverty line, including 5.8% of those under age 18 and 6.4% of those age 65 or over.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 8,209 people, 2,759 households, and 2,020 families residing in the CDP.

Education
The local school district is Madison County Schools.

title: Meridianville, Alabama


text:
Moores Mill, Alabama

Moores Mill is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) in Madison County, Alabama, United States, and is included in the Huntsville-Decatur Combined Statistical Area. The population was 6,729 at the 2020 census, up from 5,682 at the 2010 census.

Geography
Moores Mill is located in northern Madison County at 34.83056°N, -86.52056°W (34.830662, -86.520538). It is bordered to the west by Meridianville and to the south by Huntsville.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 13.8 sqmi, of which 13.6 sqmi are land and 0.2 sqmi, or 1.20%, are water.

Demographics
Moores Mill saw a slight decline from 2024 population estimates.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 5,178 people, 1,912 households, and 1,500 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 373.6 PD/sqmi. There were 2,030 housing units at an average density of 146.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 77.62% White, 18.58% Black or African American, 1.31% Native American, 0.79% Asian, 0.02% Pacific Islander, 0.10% from other races, and 1.58% from two or more races. 0.98% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 1,912 households, out of which 38.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 66.6% were married couples living together, 8.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 21.5% were non-families. 18.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 4.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.71 and the average family size was 3.09.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 27.9% under the age of 18, 7.4% from 18 to 24, 34.7% from 25 to 44, 22.4% from 45 to 64, and 7.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 35 years. For every 100 females, there were 100.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 98.8 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $50,292, and the median income for a family was $53,750. Males had a median income of $32,303 versus $25,449 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $20,158. About 6.9% of families and 9.9% of the population were below the poverty line, including 14.7% of those under age 18 and 13.8% of those age 65 or over.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 5,682 people, 2,204 households, and 1,673 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 410 PD/sqmi. There were 2,354 housing units at an average density of 173.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 70.9% White, 22.6% Black or African American, 1.1% Native American, 1.5% Asian, 0.1% Pacific Islander, 0.9% from other races, and 2.8% from two or more races. 2.4% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 2,204 households, out of which 31.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 59.8% were married couples living together, 11.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 24.1% were non-families. 20.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 5.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.58 and the average family size was 2.97.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 23.2% under the age of 18, 7.6% from 18 to 24, 26.9% from 25 to 44, 31.3% from 45 to 64, and 11.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 39.9 years. For every 100 females, there were 96.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 96.2 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $67,449, and the median income for a family was $79,010. Males had a median income of $47,981 versus $40,257 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $30,155. About 6.8% of families and 10.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 13.6% of those under age 18 and 9.5% of those age 65 or over.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 6,729 people, 2,683 households, and 1,974 families residing in the CDP.

Education
The local school district is Madison County Schools.

title: Moores Mill, Alabama


text:
New Hope, Alabama

New Hope is a city in Madison County, Alabama, United States, and is included in the Huntsville-Decatur Combined Statistical Area. The population was 2,889 at the 2020 census.

History
Originally named "Cloud's Town" in 1829 by its founder, William Cloud, it was incorporated in 1832 under the name of "Vienna". Lieutenant Colonel Alfred Reed of the 12th Indiana Cavalry seized the town on May 29, 1864, during the American Civil War. Vienna was burned by the Union Army on December 15, 1864, because of the constant skirmishes with the guerrilla fighters in the area. All that remained were the post office and Masonic Lodge. Since there was already a post office called Vienna in southern Alabama and rules were that there could not be two post offices with the same name at that time, the rebuilt city was incorporated in 1883 as "New Hope", taking its name from the New Hope Methodist Church. The settlement known as Cloud's Town was actually settled in what is now known as Cloud's Cove just off Hobbs Island Road, and is a few miles from the town of New Hope.

Geography
New Hope is located in southeastern Madison County at 34.53722°N, -86.41278°W (34.537051, -86.412815), along U.S. Route 431. It is 19 mi southeast of the center of Huntsville and the same distance northwest of Guntersville

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 8.715 sqmi, of which 8.658 sqmi is land and 0.057 sqmi, is water.

Demographics
Note that New Hope did not appear on the 1890 and 1940-1950 U.S. Censuses. In the case of the latter two years, it is likely their incorporation charter lapsed and was not renewed until prior to its reappearance on the 1960 U.S. Census.

2020 census
As of the 2020 census, there were 2,889 people, 1,177 households, and 795 families residing in the city. There were 1,286 housing units.

2010 census
As of the 2010 census, there were 2,810 people in 1,143 households, including 795 families, in the city. The population density was 325 PD/sqmi. There were 1,258 housing units at an average density of 146.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 93.7% White, 0.2% Black or African American, 2.5% Native American, 0.3% Asian, 0.7% from other races, and 2.5% from two or more races. 1.4% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

Of the 1,143 households 30.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 51.8% were married couples living together, 12.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 30.4% were non-families. 25.5% of households were one person and 11.0% were one person aged 65 or older. The average household size was 2.46 and the average family size was 2.93.

The age distribution was 23.5% under the age of 18, 8.5% from 18 to 24, 27.6% from 25 to 44, 27.7% from 45 to 64, and 12.7% 65 or older. The median age was 38.2 years. For every 100 females, there were 96.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 95.7 males.

The median household income was $38,423 and the median family income was $47,396. Males had a median income of $33,135 versus $24,167 for females. The per capita income for the city was $19,104. About 5.7% of families and 11.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including 15.3% of those under age 18 and 9.8% of those age 65 or over.

2000 census
As of the 2000 census, there were 2,539 people in 1,033 households, including 729 families, in the city. The population density was 287.6 PD/sqmi. There were 1,124 housing units at an average density of 127.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 94.80% White, 0.39% Black or African American, 1.81% Native American, 0.24% Asian, 0.67% from other races, and 2.09% from two or more races. 0.95% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

Of the 1,033 households 34.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 54.1% were married couples living together, 12.3% had a female householder with no husband present, and 29.4% were non-families. 26.8% of households were one person and 11.3% were one person aged 65 or older. The average household size was 2.46 and the average family size was 2.97.

The age distribution was 26.0% under the age of 18, 8.5% from 18 to 24, 30.8% from 25 to 44, 21.4% from 45 to 64, and 13.3% 65 or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 90.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 89.5 males.

The median household income was $31,458 and the median family income was $39,427. Males had a median income of $30,852 versus $20,263 for females. The per capita income for the city was $15,655. About 8.2% of families and 11.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 14.4% of those under age 18 and 15.1% of those age 65 or over.

Education
The local school district is Madison County Schools.

 * New Hope Elementary School (K-6)
 * New Hope High School (7–12)

Notable people

 * Ernest Hinds, US Army major general
 * Jim Tabor, professional baseball player
 * Nancy Worley, 50th Secretary of State of Alabama

title: New Hope, Alabama


text:
New Market, Alabama

New Market is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) in Madison County, Alabama, United States, and is included in the Huntsville-Decatur Combined Statistical Area. As of the 2020 census, the population of the CDP was 1,543. Although it was the first area settled in Madison County, the town has never been incorporated.

History
In the early 19th century, several persons from Tennessee explored the area just across the border in what eventually became Madison County in Alabama. Isaac and Joseph Criner also explored the area and, in 1804, settled in the northern part near what is now called the Mountain Fork of the Flint River. George Smith, landowner of the town site, built the first log house and established a mercantile business in 1814. John Miller excavated a millrace and erected a gristmill and sawmill in 1819. Later settlers gave the name "New Market" to the community.

On January 30, 1966, the coldest temperature ever to be recorded in Alabama was registered in New Market, at -27 F.

Four sites in New Market are listed on the National Register of Historic Places: the New Market Historic District, New Market Presbyterian Church, New Market United Methodist Church, and the Whitman-Cobb House. New Market is also home to the Mount Paran Cemetery, a historic cemetery recognized by the Alabama Register of Landmarks and Heritage and home to the graves of New Market pioneers including Isaac Criner and John Miller.

Geography
New Market is located in northeastern Madison County at 34.90639°N, -86.42611°W (34.906295, -86.426170). It is 17 mi northeast of Huntsville and 6 mi south of the Tennessee border.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 45.5 km2, of which 0.08 sqkm, or 0.17%, are water. The Mountain Fork of the Flint River flows through the northern part of the community. Backbone Mountain and other outliers at the southern end of the Cumberland Plateau rise 800 ft above the town to the east.

Demographics
New Market first appeared on the 1880 U.S. Census as an unincorporated community of 144 residents. It did not appear again on the census for 110 years until 1990, when it was classified as a census-designated place (CDP).

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,864 people, 692 households, and 534 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 108.4 PD/sqmi. There were 787 housing units at an average density of 45.8 /mi2. The racial makeup of the CDP was 87.18% White, 6.28% Black or African American, 2.25% Native American, 0.16% Asian, 1.34% from other races, and 2.79% from two or more races. 3.54% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 692 households, out of which 38.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 61.7% were married couples living together, 10.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 22.8% were non-families. 19.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 6.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.67 and the average family size was 3.05.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 26.1% under the age of 18, 8.3% from 18 to 24, 35.2% from 25 to 44, 19.5% from 45 to 64, and 10.9% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 35 years. For every 100 females, there were 101.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 101.3 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $42,985, and the median income for a family was $46,696. Males had a median income of $36,204 versus $18,188 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $18,799. About 7.5% of families and 11.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 14.7% of those under age 18 and 7.8% of those age 65 or over.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 1,597 people, 632 households, and 454 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 91 /mi2. There were 714 housing units at an average density of 40.8 /mi2. The racial makeup of the CDP was 88.5% White, 6.7% Black or African American, 1.4% Native American, 0.2% Asian, 1.9% from other races, and 1.3% from two or more races. 4.4% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 632 households, out of which 28.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 56.3% were married couples living together, 10.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 28.2% were non-families. 23.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 7.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.53 and the average family size was 3.00.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 22.9% under the age of 18, 9.3% from 18 to 24, 24.3% from 25 to 44, 31.3% from 45 to 64, and 12.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 41.1 years. For every 100 females, there were 101.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 106.4 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $42,857, and the median income for a family was $51,250. Males had a median income of $36,250 versus $27,068 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $22,043. About 11.9% of families and 14.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including 35.3% of those under age 18 and 21.1% of those age 65 or over.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 1,543 people, 475 households, and 369 families residing in the CDP.

Public services
Water service in the New Market area is run by the Madison County Water Authority. Sewer service is unavailable. Huntsville Utilities provides electric service.

The Madison County Sheriff's Department administers law and order in the community, and the New Market Volunteer Fire Department provides fire protection.

Education
New Market is home to several schools run by the Madison County Schools school district, which is the school district of New Market.

K-8 schools Middle schools High schools
 * New Market School
 * Walnut Grove Elementary School
 * Buckhorn Middle School
 * Buckhorn High School

Notable people

 * Joe W. Davis, mayor of Huntsville from 1968 to 1988
 * Whitney Dean, guitarist and vocalist of The Sweeplings, a pop-folk duo
 * Holly Helms, vocalist in The Springs, a country music duo
 * Woodall Rodgers, mayor of Dallas, Texas from 1939 to 1947
 * Sam Streeter, baseball pitcher in the Negro leagues from 1920 to 1936
 * T. T. Terry, first mayor of Huntsville, serving from 1916 to 1918

title: New Market, Alabama


text:
Owens Cross Roads, Alabama

Owens Cross Roads is a town in Madison County, Alabama, United States, and is included in the Huntsville-Decatur Combined Statistical Area. It was incorporated on October 9, 1967. The population was 2,594 at the 2020 census. It is home to Brazelton Cemetery.

History
The area has a history that can be dated back to the early 1800’s. Pioneers had drifted into the area from Tennessee, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia with names such as Wood, Parker, Craig, Craft, Maples, Carpenter and Brannum, but a gentleman named Thomas J. Owens had migrated from Virginia and was the first to build his family home near an intersection of two roads.

The name Owens Cross Roads was very appropriately chosen since the Owens home was at “the cross roads”. The community grew in size at a steady pace over the years as a large frame business house was erected near the intersection, containing a post office (established 1861 ), general store and blacksmith shop. Owens Cross Roads first appeared on maps in 1850.

Following the Civil War, the population grew as businesses sprang up and a new school was erected to replace the original log schoolhouse. With the turn of the 20th century came new growth to the neighboring towns of Huntsville and Guntersville, making Owens Cross Roads a welcome stop for travelers between the two larger towns. The town relied heavily on cotton cultivation throughout much of its early history, with some crop diversification coming in the 1920s and 1930s.

Incorporation
Incorporated in 1967, the Owens Cross Roads City Hall sits facing Highway 431 South, a busy corridor of modern life. The city proudly boasts of having the first Blue Ribbon School in Madison County, a highly praised Volunteer Fire Department and a Police Department dedicated to serve and protect the citizens of Owens Cross Roads.

Geography
Owens Cross Roads is located at 34.58611°N, -86.45861°W (34.586071, -86.458561). The city is situated in a broad valley carved by the Flint River. Rugged hills and mountains surround the town, including Green Mountain to the west, and Keel Mountain to the east. Huntsville lies across Green Mountain to the northwest, New Hope lies just to the southeast, and Paint Rock lies across Keel Mountain to the northeast. U.S. Route 431 passes through Owens Cross Roads, connecting the town with Huntsville and Guntersville. Owens Cross Roads met the threshold to become a city in 2020 with the population exceeding 2,000 persons under Alabama law

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 7.970 sqmi, of which 7.852 sqmi is land and 0.118 sqmi, is water.

2020 census
As of the 2020 census, there were 2,594 people, 978 households, and 718 families residing in the town. There were 1,032 housing units.

2010 census
As of the 2010 census, there were 1,521 people, 593 households, and 409 families in the town. The population density was 183 PD/sqmi. There were 650 housing units at an average density of 78.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 91.5% White, 3.6% Black or African American, 1.0% Native American, 0.3% Asian, 0.6% from other races, and 3.0% from two or more races. 2.2% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

Of the 593 households 30.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 53.3% were married couples living together, 10.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 31.0% were non-families. 27.0% of households were one person and 8.7% were one person aged 65 or older. The average household size was 2.41 and the average family size was 2.91.

The age distribution was 23.1% under the age of 18, 7.8% from 18 to 24, 28.3% from 25 to 44, 23.9% from 45 to 64, and 16.9% 65 or older. The median age was 38.1 years. For every 100 females, there were 97.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 107.0 males.

The median household income was $40,625 and the median family income was $43,750. Males had a median income of $43,889 versus $33,393 for females. The per capita income for the town was $21,542. About 23.6% of families and 31.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 60.9% of those under age 18 and 6.1% of those age 65 or over.

2000 census
As of the 2000 census, there were 1,124 people, 443 households, and 329 families residing in the town. The population density was 145.8 people per square mile (56.3/km2). There were 482 housing units at an average density of 62.5 per square mile (24.1/km2). The racial makeup of the town was 95.64% White, 0.71% Black or African American, 0.71% Native American, 0.27% Asian, 0.36% from other races, and 2.31% from two or more races. 0.62% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 443 households out of which 29.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 60.0% were married couples living together, 9.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 25.7% were non-families. 21.9% of all households were made up of individuals and 8.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.47 and the average family size was 2.88.

In the town the population was spread out with 23.3% under the age of 18, 8.4% from 18 to 24, 29.6% from 25 to 44, 24.7% from 45 to 64, and 14.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females there were 95.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 95.0 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $34,856, and the median income for a family was $45,167. Males had a median income of $30,781 versus $22,917 for females. The per capita income for the town was $17,534. About 4.6% of families and 7.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 8.9% of those under age 18 and 11.8% of those age 65 or over.

Education
The local school district is Madison County Schools.

Notable people

 * Edward Troye, painter

title: Owens Cross Roads, Alabama