History of Houston County, Alabama

by hotelaah · October 8, 2024

Houston County, Alabama, located in the southeastern corner of the state, is the youngest county in Alabama, having been established in 1903. Named after Governor George S. Houston, the county was carved out of Dale, Geneva, and Henry counties and has Dothan as its county seat and largest city. Throughout its history, Houston County has evolved from a rural, agricultural economy to a regional center for industry, agriculture, and commerce. The county is known for its pivotal role in the peanut industry, its rich cultural history, and its development as a hub for transportation, healthcare, and education in southeastern Alabama.

Houston County Facts

Founded: February 9, 1903
County Seat: Dothan
Largest City: Dothan
Population: Approximately 107,202 (2020 Census)
Area: 582 square miles (1,507 km²)
Area Codes: 334
ZIP Codes: 36301, 36303, 36305, 36310, 36312, 36319, 36321, 36343, 36350, 36352, 36353, 36376
Major Landmarks:
- Dothan Opera House
- Landmark Park
- George Washington Carver Museum
- Peanut Monument (Dothan)
- Farley Nuclear Plant

Early History of Houston County

Native American Presence

Before European settlement, the land that would become Houston County was inhabited by Native American tribes, primarily the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. These tribes lived in the area for centuries, establishing villages and utilizing the land for hunting, farming, and fishing.

Creek Confederacy: The Muscogee (Creek) Nation was part of a larger group of tribes that made up the Creek Confederacy. They controlled vast territories across present-day Alabama and Georgia and played a significant role in regional trade networks.
Indian Removal and the Trail of Tears: The Indian Removal Act of 1830 and subsequent treaties forced the relocation of most Native American tribes from the region. By the mid-1830s, the Creek people were forced to leave Alabama and move westward to Indian Territory, opening up the land for European-American settlers.

European Exploration and Early Settlement

European settlers began arriving in southeastern Alabama in the early 19th century, after the land was made available following the forced removal of Native American tribes. Most of these settlers were farmers from Georgia and the Carolinas, drawn to the area’s fertile land.

Early Agriculture: The first European-American settlers in what would become Houston County were small-scale farmers, primarily growing cotton, corn, and other staple crops. The region’s rich soil and temperate climate made it ideal for agriculture, and the early economy was centered around farming.
Transportation Routes: In the early 19th century, transportation routes such as rivers and trails facilitated the movement of goods and people. Settlers used the nearby Chattahoochee River for trade and transport, linking the area to larger markets in Alabama, Florida, and Georgia.

Formation of Houston County (1903)

Establishment of the County

Houston County was officially created on February 9, 1903, making it the youngest county in Alabama. It was formed from parts of Dale, Geneva, and Henry counties.

Naming the County: The county was named in honor of George S. Houston, who served as the Governor of Alabama from 1874 to 1878 and was known for his efforts to rebuild the state following the Civil War and Reconstruction.
Dothan as the County Seat: Dothan, which had already emerged as a commercial center by the late 19th century, was chosen as the county seat. The town’s strategic location, near the crossroads of several key railroads, made it the ideal choice for the county’s administrative center.

Early Economic Development

Agriculture: From its inception, Houston County was predominantly an agricultural area, with cotton as the dominant cash crop. Small farmers and larger plantations alike produced cotton, which was shipped to markets via railroads and rivers.
Railroad Expansion: The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century was a transformative event for the area. Rail lines connected Houston County to larger markets in Alabama and neighboring states, fostering economic growth and attracting new settlers.

Houston County During the Civil War and Reconstruction (1861-1877)

Civil War Impact

Although Houston County was not established until after the Civil War, the region that would become the county was deeply affected by the conflict. Much of the area was part of Dale, Geneva, and Henry counties, all of which supported the Confederacy.

Confederate Support: Many men from the region enlisted in the Confederate Army, fighting in various Alabama infantry regiments. The local economy, heavily dependent on agriculture, suffered during the war, with disruptions to farming, trade, and infrastructure.
Post-War Economic Struggles: After the war, the area faced significant economic challenges. The collapse of the Confederate economy, combined with the end of slavery, forced landowners to rebuild their farms and adapt to new labor arrangements, including sharecropping and tenant farming.

Reconstruction Challenges

The Reconstruction era brought social, political, and economic changes to the region. Federal authorities worked to reintegrate Alabama into the Union and to protect the rights of newly freed African Americans, but these efforts were often met with resistance.

Freedmen’s Bureau: The Freedmen’s Bureau operated in the region, assisting formerly enslaved people in adjusting to their new lives. The bureau helped with employment, education, and legal matters, although its efforts were often hindered by local opposition.
Sharecropping and Tenant Farming: In the absence of enslaved labor, many landowners turned to sharecropping and tenant farming, systems that allowed African Americans and poor whites to work the land in exchange for a portion of the crops. These arrangements often kept workers in a cycle of debt and poverty.

Economic Growth and Cultural Development (1877-1940)

The Rise of the Peanut Industry

One of the most significant economic developments in Houston County’s history was the rise of the peanut industry in the early 20th century. Peanuts became a major cash crop, and Dothan soon earned the title of “Peanut Capital of the World.”

George Washington Carver’s Influence: Agricultural scientist George Washington Carver, based at Tuskegee Institute, played a pivotal role in promoting peanuts as an alternative to cotton. His research showed that peanuts could restore nitrogen to the soil, making them an ideal crop for Southern farmers struggling with depleted cotton fields.
Peanut Production: By the 1920s, peanuts had surpassed cotton as the primary crop in Houston County. Local farmers found success in growing and marketing peanuts, and Dothan became a major center for peanut processing and trade. The annual National Peanut Festival, held in Dothan, celebrates the county’s agricultural heritage and peanut industry.

Railroad and Commercial Growth

The expansion of railroads in the late 19th and early 20th centuries spurred commercial growth in Houston County, particularly in Dothan.

Railroad Hub: Dothan became a key railroad hub in southeastern Alabama, with lines connecting the city to larger markets in Alabama, Georgia, and Florida. The city’s strategic location made it a center for trade, transportation, and industry.
Commercial Expansion: As Dothan grew, so did its commercial sector. By the early 20th century, the city had a variety of businesses, including banks, hotels, and retail stores, making it the commercial center of Houston County.

Social and Cultural Life

Churches and Schools: As Houston County grew, churches and schools played a central role in the lives of its residents. Religious institutions were central to social life, and the establishment of public schools provided educational opportunities for both white and African American children.
Community Events: Agricultural fairs, church gatherings, and local festivals became important parts of the cultural fabric of Houston County. These events brought residents together and reinforced the close-knit nature of rural communities.

The Great Depression and World War II (1930-1945)

Impact of the Great Depression

Like much of the United States, Houston County was severely affected by the Great Depression of the 1930s. Falling crop prices, unemployment, and poverty created widespread hardship for local families, particularly farmers.

Economic Decline: The decline in agricultural prices hit Houston County hard, especially for peanut and cotton farmers. Many farmers lost their land due to debt and foreclosures, and local businesses struggled to survive.
Federal Relief Programs: New Deal programs, such as the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and the Works Progress Administration (WPA), provided some relief for Houston County residents. These programs helped build infrastructure, such as roads and public buildings, and provided jobs for unemployed workers.

World War II and Economic Recovery

World War II brought significant changes to Houston County. Many local men and women served in the military, while the war effort created new economic opportunities for the region.

Military Service: Numerous residents of Houston County enlisted in the armed forces during World War II, serving in both the European and Pacific theaters. The war also created demand for agricultural products, including peanuts, which were used to make peanut oil for military use.
Post-War Economic Boom: After the war, Houston County experienced a period of economic growth and prosperity. Returning veterans used the GI Bill to further their education, start businesses, and buy homes, contributing to the county’s post-war boom.

Post-War Growth and Modernization (1945-2000)

Industrial and Economic Expansion

In the decades following World War II, Houston County underwent significant economic and industrial growth. While agriculture remained important, new industries emerged, and the county became more economically diversified.

Industrial Development: Houston County saw the establishment of new industries, including manufacturing plants and food processing facilities. The county’s strategic location, with access to railroads and highways, made it an attractive location for businesses.
Healthcare and Education: The development of healthcare and education sectors also contributed to the county’s growth. Dothan became a regional center for healthcare, with hospitals and medical facilities serving southeastern Alabama and parts of Florida and Georgia.

Growth of Dothan

As the largest city in Houston County, Dothan experienced significant growth in the post-war years, becoming a major center for commerce, education, and transportation in southeastern Alabama.

Transportation Hub: Dothan’s location at the intersection of several major highways, including U.S. Highways 84 and 231, made it a key transportation hub. The city became a gateway to Florida’s Gulf Coast, attracting travelers and businesses alike.
Cultural and Social Development: Dothan also developed as a cultural center, with the establishment of institutions such as the Dothan Opera House and Landmark Park. The city’s growth was accompanied by a boom in residential development, with new neighborhoods and shopping centers built to accommodate the expanding population.

Civil Rights Era

The Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s had a significant impact on Houston County, particularly in terms of school desegregation and voting rights for African Americans.

School Desegregation: Following the U.S. Supreme Court’s 1954 decision in Brown v. Board of Education, Houston County, like many other Southern communities, was slow to integrate its public schools. It was not until the late 1960s that significant progress was made in desegregating schools in Dothan and other parts of the county.
Voting Rights: The Voting Rights Act of 1965 helped dismantle the barriers that had long prevented African Americans in Houston County from exercising their right to vote. This legislation, along with the broader Civil Rights Movement, helped pave the way for greater political participation by African Americans in the county.

Houston County in the 21st Century (2000-Present)

Economic Challenges and Opportunities

The 21st century has brought both challenges and new opportunities to Houston County. While traditional industries such as agriculture remain important, the county has diversified its economy with growth in healthcare, education, and tourism.

Agriculture and Industry: Agriculture continues to play a significant role in Houston County’s economy, particularly peanut farming. The county is one of the largest peanut producers in the United States, and the National Peanut Festival remains a major annual event in Dothan.
Healthcare and Education: The healthcare and education sectors have expanded in recent years, with new medical facilities and educational institutions serving the growing population. Dothan’s reputation as a regional healthcare center has helped attract professionals and businesses to the area.

Growth of Tourism and Cultural Heritage

Tourism has become an increasingly important part of Houston County’s economy, with visitors drawn to the area’s historical landmarks, cultural events, and outdoor activities.

Landmark Park: Landmark Park, a living history museum in Dothan, offers visitors a glimpse into the agricultural history of the region. The park features a working farm, historic buildings, and nature trails, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
National Peanut Festival: The National Peanut Festival, held annually in Dothan, celebrates the county’s agricultural heritage and its status as a major peanut producer. The festival features agricultural exhibits, concerts, and carnival rides, attracting visitors from across the region.

Preservation of Heritage

Houston County remains committed to preserving its historical and cultural heritage. Efforts to protect historic landmarks and promote local history have become a priority in recent years.

George Washington Carver Museum: The George Washington Carver Museum in Dothan honors the legacy of the famous agricultural scientist and educator. The museum celebrates Carver’s contributions to the peanut industry and his broader impact on agriculture and science.
Historic Landmarks: Several historic sites in Houston County, including the Dothan Opera House and the Downtown Dothan Historic District, have been preserved and restored. These landmarks offer a window into the county’s past and are popular destinations for visitors and history enthusiasts.