Cities in Barbour County, Alabama
Barbour County is located in southeastern Alabama, bordering the Chattahoochee River and the state of Georgia. Established in 1832, the county has a rich history that is tied to the Civil War, agriculture, and its strategic location along the river. The area was once inhabited by the Creek Nation before European settlers arrived in the early 19th century. Over time, Barbour County developed into an agricultural hub, with cotton farming being the primary industry. Today, the county is known for its historical landmarks, outdoor recreational opportunities, and rural charm. Barbour County consists of several small towns and cities, with Eufaula and Clayton being the most prominent. In total, the county has six incorporated cities and towns, each contributing to its unique historical and cultural landscape.
Eufaula
City Overview
Eufaula is the largest city in Barbour County, located on the western bank of the Chattahoochee River. The city has a rich antebellum history, with many of its original homes and buildings still preserved today. Founded in 1834, Eufaula became an important hub for cotton shipping due to its location along the river. During the Civil War, the city’s importance as a trade center grew, and many of its historic homes were spared from destruction. Today, Eufaula is known for its well-preserved architecture, charming downtown, and outdoor recreational opportunities at Lake Eufaula, a popular destination for fishing and boating. The city also hosts the annual Eufaula Pilgrimage, a celebration of its historic homes and gardens.
City Facts
- Population: Approximately 12,000
- Household Income: Median household income around $32,000
- Airports: Eufaula Municipal Airport; Columbus Metropolitan Airport (50 miles away)
- Highways: U.S. Route 431, Alabama State Route 131, Alabama State Route 95
Major Landmarks and Hotels
Eufaula is home to numerous historical landmarks, including the Shorter Mansion and Fendall Hall, both of which offer tours showcasing the city’s antebellum architecture. Lake Eufaula, also known as the Walter F. George Reservoir, is a major attraction for fishing, boating, and camping. The Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge, located along the river, offers opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife observation. As for accommodations, visitors can stay at several local hotels, including the Hampton Inn Eufaula, Quality Inn & Suites, and the historic Baker Street Bed and Breakfast, which offers a glimpse into the city’s past with its Victorian-style architecture.
Clayton
City Overview
Clayton, the county seat of Barbour County, is located in the heart of the county and has a long history tied to the legal and political history of the state. Founded in 1834, Clayton grew as an agricultural community, with cotton being the primary crop. It became the county seat due to its central location, and today, the Barbour County Courthouse, built in the late 1800s, stands as a symbol of its historical importance. The town has retained much of its rural character, offering a quiet, small-town atmosphere. Clayton is known for its historical architecture, particularly in its downtown area, and serves as a hub for legal and administrative activities in the county.
City Facts
- Population: Approximately 3,000
- Household Income: Median household income around $30,000
- Airports: Dothan Regional Airport (35 miles away)
- Highways: U.S. Route 431, Alabama State Route 30, Alabama State Route 51
Major Landmarks and Hotels
Clayton is home to several notable landmarks, including the historic Barbour County Courthouse, which features unique architectural details from the late 19th century. Another key attraction is the Clayton Carnegie Library, a reminder of the town’s historical commitment to education and literacy. For accommodations, visitors to Clayton often stay at bed-and-breakfast inns or travel to nearby Eufaula for larger hotel options. However, the town’s historical charm and peaceful setting make it an ideal destination for those looking to explore Barbour County’s rural heritage. The nearby Barbour Creek Shooting Academy offers outdoor activities and is popular among sportsmen.
Clio
City Overview
Clio is a small town in Barbour County with deep agricultural roots. Located in the northern part of the county, Clio was once a thriving cotton farming community. It is also famously known as the birthplace of George C. Wallace, the former Alabama governor and presidential candidate. The town has a quiet, rural atmosphere, with a strong sense of community and a slower pace of life. Over the years, Clio has seen economic changes, but its rich history and connection to Alabama’s political landscape remain central to its identity.
City Facts
- Population: Approximately 1,200
- Household Income: Median household income around $22,000
- Airports: Dothan Regional Airport (30 miles away)
- Highways: Alabama State Route 10
Major Landmarks and Hotels
Clio’s most notable landmark is the George C. Wallace birthplace, which commemorates the life and legacy of one of Alabama’s most famous political figures. The town also celebrates its agricultural heritage, with several farms in the surrounding area offering a glimpse into the region’s traditional way of life. While Clio does not have major hotels, visitors can find accommodations in nearby towns such as Eufaula or Dothan, where options like the Hampton Inn or Holiday Inn Express provide comfortable lodging. Clio’s peaceful environment and historical significance make it a point of interest for history buffs and those seeking to explore rural Alabama.
Louisville
City Overview
Louisville, located in the northern part of Barbour County, is another small town with a rich agricultural history. Like many towns in the region, Louisville grew as a farming community, with cotton and other crops being the backbone of its economy. The town has a close-knit community and a rural, small-town atmosphere that has changed little over the decades. Louisville is known for its historic homes and churches, which reflect its deep-rooted Southern heritage. Although small in size, Louisville plays an important role in preserving the county’s agricultural and cultural history.
City Facts
- Population: Approximately 500
- Household Income: Median household income around $40,000
- Airports: Dothan Regional Airport (40 miles away)
- Highways: Alabama State Route 51, Alabama State Route 130
Major Landmarks and Hotels
Louisville’s key landmarks include several historic churches and homes that date back to the 19th century. These buildings showcase traditional Southern architecture and provide a glimpse into the town’s past. Additionally, nearby recreational opportunities such as hunting and fishing attract outdoor enthusiasts to the area. As a small town, Louisville does not have large hotels, but visitors can find accommodations in nearby Eufaula or Dothan. Bed-and-breakfast options in the region offer a more personal and relaxed lodging experience for those looking to explore the quiet rural landscapes of Barbour County.
Bakerhill
City Overview
Bakerhill is a small rural community in southeastern Barbour County. Known for its proximity to the Chattahoochee River and Lake Eufaula, Bakerhill is a quiet town with a strong connection to nature and outdoor activities. While the town itself is small and primarily residential, it benefits from its proximity to Eufaula and other larger towns in the region. Bakerhill’s location makes it an ideal spot for those interested in fishing, boating, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. The town has a relaxed, rural feel, making it a perfect escape for those seeking a slower pace of life.
City Facts
- Population: Approximately 250
- Household Income: Median household income around $35,000
- Airports: Eufaula Municipal Airport (15 miles away), Dothan Regional Airport (45 miles away)
- Highways: Alabama State Route 131
Major Landmarks and Hotels
Bakerhill’s proximity to Lake Eufaula makes it a prime location for outdoor activities, with Lakepoint State Park offering camping, boating, and fishing opportunities. The nearby Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge provides additional opportunities for wildlife observation and nature hikes. Bakerhill itself does not have hotels, but visitors can find accommodations in Eufaula, which offers a range of options from the Hampton Inn to more boutique stays like The Baker Street Bed and Breakfast. The area’s natural attractions are the main draw, making Bakerhill a gateway to some of the region’s best outdoor experiences.
Blue Springs
City Overview
Blue Springs is a small town in Barbour County known for its natural beauty and the Blue Springs State Park, a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The town’s name comes from the natural springs that flow through the area, providing cool, clear water year-round. Blue Springs has a rural, peaceful atmosphere, with much of the town’s activity centered around the state park. Agriculture also plays an important role in the local economy, with farms surrounding the town. Blue Springs offers a quiet, scenic environment that appeals to visitors looking for a relaxing getaway.
City Facts
- Population: Approximately 100
- Household Income: Median household income around $25,000
- Airports: Dothan Regional Airport (30 miles away)
- Highways: Alabama State Route 10
Major Landmarks and Hotels
Blue Springs State Park is the town’s main attraction, featuring natural springs that remain at a cool 68 degrees year-round, making it a popular swimming spot. The park also offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and camping facilities. While Blue Springs itself does not have hotels, the nearby towns of Clayton and Eufaula provide a range of lodging options for visitors. Blue Springs’ natural beauty and its quiet, small-town atmosphere make it a perfect spot for those looking to explore the outdoors and enjoy a relaxing retreat in rural Alabama.
