Etowah County Historical Society

06/18/2026

On the eve of 1925, Alabama City began the legal fight against Gadsden to claim land back. However, within a decade, the effects of the Great Depression had diminished the city's funds to the point that it could no longer make payroll. Faced with these financial hardships, the citizens of Alabama City voted to become part of Gadsden, bringing an end to its independent municipality.

06/15/2026

https://forms.gle/3hS1SmEgrUpCMm196

The Etowah County Historical Society is collecting stories, memories, photographs, and historical information from current and former residents to help preserve our community's history for future generations. Whether you have lived here your entire life or only a few years, your experiences are an important part of our shared history.

This questionnaire is designed to document personal memories, school experiences, community traditions, and family histories that might otherwise be lost over time. We encourage you to answer as many or as few questions as you wish and to share any photographs, documents, or memorabilia that may help tell the story of Etowah County.

The Etowah County Historical Society is collecting stories, memories, photographs, and historical information from current and former residents to help preserve the history of our community for future generations. Whether you have lived here your entire life or only a few years, your experiences are...

06/06/2026

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06/06/2026

We would like to extend our sincere appreciation to Mr. John Raley for an enjoyable tour of Mount Tabor Cemetery this morning.

One of its notable internments is Mr. Charles Reed (1916-1992). Eighty two years ago today, Mr. Reed was among those in Normandy fighting for our nation. These young men were far from home on beaches red with blood as thousands perished. May we never forget.

Pictured is his draft card.

05/28/2026

In honor of America’s upcoming 250th birthday, we would like to highlight some of the American Revolutionary soldiers buried in our county.

George Washington Upton was born in 1759 in North Carolina and passed away in 1854 in DeKalb County, in what is now Etowah County, Alabama. Following his service in the American Revolution, he adopted the middle name “Washington” out of respect and admiration for General George Washington’s leadership in securing our nation’s independence.

Sadly, the Upton Cemetery, where George was laid to rest, was destroyed in 1989 by the property owner.

Pictured is the 1835 Pension Roll with his name listed

04/23/2026

"Foundations Beneath our Feet" : a living history portrayal

04/14/2026

The Alabama Cemetery Preservation Alliance invites you to the 24th Annual Cemetery Preservation Workshop.

Saturday, April 18, 2026
8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Etowah County Historical Society & Old Harmony Cemetery

Spend the day learning from experts about:
Cemetery preservation techniques
Tombstone repair & cleaning
Ground-penetrating radar for unmarked graves
Local history

Round Table Participants & Speakers:
• Jordan Wilson– Conservator, Old River Cemetery Restoration LLC, Vicksburg, MS
• Rusty Brenner – Owner, Cemetery Preservation Supply, Crockett, TX
• Chase Childs – GIS Analyst, Office of Archaeological Research, University of Alabama Museums, Moundville, AL
• Jeff Garmon – Old Harmony Cemetery Association, Rainbow City, AL
• Mollie Smith – ACPA Representative for Etowah County, Vice President of the Etowah County Historical Society, Rainbow City, AL
• Debbie Walker - Archivist, Gadsden Public Library, Gadsden, AL

Registration: $45
Includes workshop materials, meals, and membership to the Alabama Cemetery Preservation Alliance for first-time attendees!

Please register using this link: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/alabama-cemetery-preservation-alliance-annual-workshop

04/11/2026

We are pleased to announce that we have broken the record for the Greater Gadsden Tourism walking tour attendance. We extend our sincerest gratitude to everyone who made this possible. This was our first year to participate, and you all made it a success. A special thank you to Mollie Smith, Christy Medlin, Gary Hunt, and Katie Campbell for their outstanding job leading the tour.

04/08/2026

Step back in time with us this Saturday at 10 a.m. for our Historic Walking Tour!

We’ll begin in front of the fish sculpture at Gadsden City Hall. Along the way, you’ll hear historic tales of a kidnapping, lost treasure, Prohibition, and even a sea monster… plus so much more!

Be sure to bring water and dress comfortably, as we’ll be walking several blocks.

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02/24/2026

Etowah County's history lives in your homes. If you have an artifact with a story to tell, consider letting us help preserve it for the next generation in our museum.