Cities in Crenshaw County, Alabama
Crenshaw County, located in the south-central region of Alabama, is a rural county known for its strong agricultural heritage, rolling hills, and small-town charm. Established in 1866, Crenshaw County was named after Anderson Crenshaw, a prominent Alabama judge. Over the years, the county has been largely dependent on agriculture, with cotton, timber, and livestock forming the backbone of the local economy. Today, Crenshaw County continues to reflect its agricultural roots while also embracing small-scale manufacturing and tourism. The county is home to four incorporated towns: Luverne, Brantley, Rutledge, and Petrey, each offering a glimpse into Alabama’s rural history and community spirit.
Luverne
City Overview
Luverne, known as the “Friendliest City in the South,” is the largest city and the county seat of Crenshaw County. Founded in 1889, Luverne grew rapidly as a railroad town, with the Central of Georgia Railway playing a central role in its development. The town became a key center for cotton production and trade, benefiting from its location along the railroad and its access to nearby rivers. Over the years, Luverne has evolved into the commercial and cultural heart of Crenshaw County, offering residents and visitors a blend of historical charm and modern conveniences. Today, Luverne serves as the hub of local government, commerce, and education.
City Facts
- Population: Approximately 2,800
- Household Income: Median household income around $30,000
- Airports: Montgomery Regional Airport (50 miles away), Troy Municipal Airport (25 miles away)
- Highways: U.S. Route 331, Alabama State Route 10, Alabama State Route 97
Major Landmarks and Hotels
Luverne is home to several historical and cultural landmarks, including the Crenshaw County Courthouse, built in the early 20th century, which remains a focal point of the town. The We Piddle Around Theater, located downtown, is a popular local venue that hosts storytelling events, plays, and live music performances. The nearby Luverne Park offers outdoor recreation opportunities for families. For accommodations, Luverne offers a few local options, including the Rutledge Inn, which provides comfortable lodging for travelers. Nearby, Troy and Montgomery offer additional hotel choices for visitors.
Brantley
City Overview
Brantley is a small town located in southern Crenshaw County, known for its agricultural roots and community spirit. Established in the late 19th century and incorporated in 1891, Brantley developed as a farming community, with cotton and later peanuts serving as the primary crops. The town was named after T.H. Brantley, one of its early settlers. Over the years, Brantley has remained a rural, close-knit community, with a strong focus on farming and small businesses. While Brantley is small, it serves as a vital part of the county’s agricultural economy and offers residents a peaceful, small-town lifestyle.
City Facts
- Population: Approximately 850
- Household Income: Median household income around $28,000
- Airports: Montgomery Regional Airport (60 miles away), Troy Municipal Airport (30 miles away)
- Highways: U.S. Route 331, Alabama State Route 189
Major Landmarks and Hotels
Brantley’s rural charm is reflected in its historic downtown area, where old storefronts and small businesses reflect the town’s past as an agricultural hub. Nearby Lake Jackson offers fishing and boating opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Although Brantley does not have major hotels, visitors can find accommodations in nearby Luverne or Troy, where options like the Rutledge Inn and the Hampton Inn provide convenient lodging for those exploring the county’s rural beauty.
Rutledge
City Overview
Rutledge, located just west of Luverne, is one of the oldest towns in Crenshaw County. Incorporated in 1871, Rutledge was the original county seat of Crenshaw County before the seat was moved to Luverne in the late 19th century. The town grew as a small agricultural community, with cotton being the dominant crop. Today, Rutledge remains a small, rural town with a strong connection to its agricultural past. Although it has a small population, Rutledge continues to serve as a quiet, residential community with a strong sense of history and tradition.
City Facts
- Population: Approximately 450
- Household Income: Median household income around $25,000
- Airports: Montgomery Regional Airport (55 miles away), Troy Municipal Airport (30 miles away)
- Highways: U.S. Route 331, Alabama State Route 10
Major Landmarks and Hotels
Rutledge’s most notable landmark is the old Crenshaw County Courthouse, a historic building that served as the center of government before the county seat was moved to Luverne. The town’s peaceful, rural environment offers a glimpse into Alabama’s agricultural history, with fields and farmland surrounding the community. While Rutledge does not have hotels, visitors can find accommodations in nearby Luverne or Montgomery, where options such as the Best Western and Hampton Inn offer comfortable stays for travelers exploring the area.
Petrey
City Overview
Petrey is the smallest town in Crenshaw County, with a strong sense of community and a rich agricultural heritage. Founded in the early 20th century, Petrey grew as a farming community, with cotton, peanuts, and livestock being the main products. Over time, the town has remained small, with a population of just over 50 residents. Despite its small size, Petrey is known for its quiet, rural lifestyle and close-knit community, where residents value tradition and agricultural life.
City Facts
- Population: Approximately 60
- Household Income: Median household income around $35,000
- Airports: Montgomery Regional Airport (55 miles away), Troy Municipal Airport (25 miles away)
- Highways: Alabama State Route 10, Alabama State Route 223
Major Landmarks and Hotels
Petrey’s rural charm is its primary attraction, with the surrounding farmlands offering a peaceful, pastoral setting. The town does not have major landmarks or hotels, but it provides a glimpse into the traditional farming communities of Alabama. Visitors seeking accommodations can stay in nearby Luverne or Montgomery, where hotels such as the Rutledge Inn or larger chain hotels in Montgomery offer convenient lodging for those exploring the region.
