History of Marshall County, Alabama

by hotelaah · October 8, 2024

Marshall County, located in the north-central part of Alabama, was founded in 1836 and named in honor of John Marshall, the fourth Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court. Known for its picturesque landscapes, including mountain ranges and the Tennessee River, the county has evolved from a rural, agriculturally focused area to a center for industry and tourism. The county played a role in the Civil War and Reconstruction era and has since developed its economy with industries such as manufacturing and agriculture. Its landmarks, including Lake Guntersville, attract visitors from across the state and beyond.

Marshall County Facts

Founded: January 9, 1836
County Seat: Guntersville
Largest City: Albertville
Population: Approximately 97,612 (2020 Census)
Area: 623 square miles (1,613 km²)
Area Codes: 256, 938
ZIP Codes: 35950, 35951, 35952, 35954, 35957, 35956, 35976, 35980, 35983, 35964, 35951, 35016
Major Landmarks:
- Lake Guntersville
- Cathedral Caverns State Park
- Guntersville State Park
- Albertville Historic District
- Arab Historic Village

Early History of Marshall County

Native American Presence

Before European settlers arrived, the area that would become Marshall County was inhabited by various Native American tribes, particularly the Cherokee and Creek nations. The region’s rivers and fertile land made it an ideal location for these tribes, who used the land for hunting, fishing, and agriculture.

Cherokee and Creek Influence: The Cherokee and Creek people built villages along the Tennessee River and other waterways in what is now Marshall County. They cultivated crops like corn, beans, and squash and engaged in trade with other tribes and, later, European settlers.
Indian Removal and the Trail of Tears: In the early 19th century, the U.S. government’s Indian Removal policy forced many Native American tribes, including the Cherokee and Creek, to leave their ancestral lands. The Trail of Tears, which involved the forced relocation of Native Americans to present-day Oklahoma, passed through areas near Marshall County.

European Exploration and Settlement

European-American settlement in the region began in earnest in the early 19th century, following the removal of Native American tribes. The area’s fertile soil, access to waterways, and natural resources attracted settlers from other parts of Alabama and neighboring states.

Early Agriculture: Early settlers in Marshall County were primarily small farmers who grew crops such as corn, wheat, and cotton. The county’s location along the Tennessee River made it an important area for agriculture and trade.
Formation of Marshall County (1836): Marshall County was officially established on January 9, 1836, by the Alabama Legislature. The county was named after John Marshall, who had served as the Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court from 1801 to 1835. Guntersville, located on the banks of the Tennessee River, was selected as the county seat.

Antebellum Period and the Civil War (1836-1865)

Cotton and Plantation Economy

During the antebellum period, Marshall County’s economy was largely agricultural, with cotton as the dominant cash crop. While the county had fewer large plantations than other parts of Alabama, cotton production remained central to its economy.

Small Farms and Plantations: Although large plantations were less common in Marshall County compared to the Black Belt region of Alabama, small and medium-sized farms were prevalent. These farms often relied on the labor of enslaved African Americans to grow cotton and other crops.
Cotton Trade: The Tennessee River was an important transportation route for shipping cotton to markets in the South and beyond. Guntersville, the county seat, became a key point for shipping agricultural products, contributing to its growth as a commercial center.

Marshall County During the Civil War

Like much of Alabama, Marshall County was deeply affected by the Civil War. The county was divided in its loyalties, with many residents supporting the Confederacy, while others held Unionist sympathies.

Confederate Support: Marshall County, like much of the state, supported the Confederacy during the Civil War. Many local men enlisted in Confederate regiments, and the county contributed supplies and resources to the Confederate war effort.
Union Raids and Skirmishes: Marshall County experienced several Union raids and skirmishes during the Civil War, particularly because of its strategic location along the Tennessee River. Union forces targeted infrastructure such as railroads and bridges to disrupt Confederate supply lines.
Economic Impact: The Civil War devastated Marshall County’s economy, as farms were destroyed, and the cotton trade was severely disrupted. The destruction of infrastructure, combined with the end of slavery, left many landowners struggling to rebuild their livelihoods after the war.

Reconstruction and the Late 19th Century (1865-1900)

Reconstruction Challenges

The Reconstruction era brought significant political, social, and economic changes to Marshall County. The end of slavery and the collapse of the Confederate economy forced the county to rebuild its agricultural base and adapt to new labor systems.

End of Slavery: With the abolition of slavery, plantation owners and farmers in Marshall County had to find new ways to work their land. Many turned to sharecropping and tenant farming, systems in which formerly enslaved African Americans and poor white farmers worked the land in exchange for a portion of the crops.
Political Instability: The Reconstruction period was marked by political instability and tension in Marshall County. The federal government’s efforts to protect the rights of African Americans and enforce Reconstruction policies were often met with resistance from local white residents.

Economic Recovery and Growth

By the late 19th century, Marshall County began to recover from the devastation of the Civil War. Agriculture remained the backbone of the county’s economy, but new industries also began to emerge, contributing to economic growth.

Diversification of Agriculture: While cotton continued to be an important crop in Marshall County, farmers began to diversify into other crops such as corn, wheat, and livestock. The development of new farming techniques and the introduction of modern machinery helped increase agricultural productivity.
Emergence of Industry: In addition to agriculture, small-scale manufacturing and timber production became important industries in Marshall County. Sawmills and other factories provided jobs and helped diversify the county’s economy.

20th Century Industrialization and Modernization (1900-1940)

Early 20th Century Developments

The early 20th century brought significant changes to Marshall County, as new industries, infrastructure improvements, and the rise of tourism helped shape the region’s economy and identity.

Railroad Expansion: The expansion of railroads in the late 19th and early 20th centuries connected Marshall County to larger markets in Alabama and beyond. Railroads facilitated the transport of agricultural products and manufactured goods, contributing to the county’s economic growth.
Textile Industry: The early 20th century saw the rise of the textile industry in Marshall County, particularly in towns such as Albertville. Textile mills provided jobs for local residents and helped modernize the county’s economy, shifting it away from its traditional agricultural base.

The Great Depression and New Deal Programs

Like much of the country, Marshall County was affected by the Great Depression in the 1930s. Falling crop prices, unemployment, and widespread poverty created significant hardship for local families, particularly farmers.

Economic Hardship: The collapse of the cotton market during the Depression left many farmers in Marshall County unable to make a living. Many families lost their land due to debt, and tenant farmers struggled to survive on the meager earnings from their crops.
New Deal Programs: Federal New Deal programs provided some relief for Marshall County residents during the Depression. The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and Works Progress Administration (WPA) created jobs through infrastructure projects, including the construction of roads, public buildings, and parks.

Post-World War II Growth and Development (1940-1970)

Impact of World War II

World War II brought significant changes to Marshall County, as the war effort created new economic opportunities and transformed the local economy.

Military Service: Many residents of Marshall County served in the military during World War II, and the war effort created demand for agricultural products and manufactured goods. The textile mills in the county produced uniforms and other supplies for the military.
Post-War Economic Boom: After the war, Marshall County experienced a period of economic growth and modernization. The availability of new technologies and infrastructure improvements, combined with the rise of new industries, helped stimulate economic development in the county.

Development of Lake Guntersville

One of the most significant developments in Marshall County during the mid-20th century was the creation of Lake Guntersville. The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) built Guntersville Dam in 1939, creating the lake as part of its efforts to provide flood control, electricity, and economic development to the Tennessee Valley region.

Lake Guntersville: Lake Guntersville, now one of the largest lakes in Alabama, became a major tourist attraction and economic driver for Marshall County. The lake’s recreational opportunities, including fishing, boating, and camping, attracted visitors from across the state and beyond.
Guntersville State Park: In the years following the creation of Lake Guntersville, Guntersville State Park was established along the lake’s shoreline. The park, which offers hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities, became a popular destination for tourists and helped boost the local economy.

Modern Marshall County (1970-Present)

Economic Diversification and Growth

In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Marshall County’s economy continued to diversify, with growth in industries such as manufacturing, tourism, and agriculture. The county’s natural beauty and recreational opportunities also helped attract visitors and new residents.

Manufacturing and Industry: Manufacturing remains an important part of Marshall County’s economy, with industries such as automotive parts, food processing, and textiles providing jobs for local residents. The county’s proximity to major transportation routes and its skilled workforce have made it an attractive location for new businesses.
Agriculture: While manufacturing has grown, agriculture continues to play a significant role in Marshall County’s economy. Farmers in the region grow a variety of crops, including soybeans, corn, and cotton, and raise livestock such as cattle and poultry.

Growth of Tourism and Outdoor Recreation

Tourism has become an increasingly important part of Marshall County’s economy, thanks to its natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and historic landmarks.

Lake Guntersville and Outdoor Activities: Lake Guntersville continues to be a major draw for tourists, with fishing tournaments, boating events, and outdoor festivals held throughout the year. The lake’s natural beauty and recreational opportunities make it a popular destination for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and nature lovers.
Cathedral Caverns State Park: Another popular tourist destination in Marshall County is Cathedral Caverns State Park, which features a massive cave with impressive rock formations. The park attracts visitors for guided cave tours, hiking, and camping, contributing to the county’s tourism industry.

Preservation of Heritage

Efforts to preserve Marshall County’s historical and cultural heritage have intensified in recent years, with several organizations working to protect the county’s landmarks and educate the public about its history.

Albertville Historic District: The city of Albertville has worked to preserve its historic downtown district, which features buildings from the early 20th century. The district reflects the town’s growth during the era of the textile industry and serves as a reminder of the county’s industrial past.
Arab Historic Village: In the town of Arab, the Arab Historic Village offers visitors a glimpse into life in Marshall County during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The village includes restored buildings, such as a schoolhouse, church, and log cabin, and hosts events that celebrate the region’s history and culture.