Etowah County Historical Society

Etowah County Historical Society We are Etowah County's Historical Society. Our facility features a research library and museum. Contact our page if you'd like to visit.

We look forward to hearing from you.

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

"Foundations Beneath our Feet" : a living history portrayal
04/23/2026

"Foundations Beneath our Feet" : a living history portrayal

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

We are pleased to announce that we have broken the record for the Greater Gadsden Tourism walking tour attendance. We ex...
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.

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 sculpt...
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.

https://www.facebook.com/share/1Ddwbjzv85/

04/01/2026

Update: we've received the emergency kit we requested. We're still interested in anything from the Cold War era. Thank you all!

Do you recall the emergency kits distributed during the chemical disposal efforts at the Anniston Army Depot in the early 2000s? The Etowah County Historical Society is seeking one of these original kits for a museum display. If you still have one, we would be grateful for the opportunity to preserve and share it. We are also seeking a gas mask to complete the display regarding the Cold War era and its aftermath in our history.

Please contact us if you are willing to donate any items similar to our requests. We will provide 501c3 donation paperwork.

Gadsden Times: Wednesday, April 1st, 1908Which joke do you find the most amusing?Happy April Fools!
04/01/2026

Gadsden Times: Wednesday, April 1st, 1908
Which joke do you find the most amusing?
Happy April Fools!

03/26/2026

Discover Greater Gadsden—where adventure begins! From scenic outdoor escapes and family-friendly attractions to rich cultural experiences, explore vibrant communities filled with Southern hospitality, natural beauty, and unforgettable memories

In June 1924, Guy Woodliff passed away while serving as county coroner. He was in his early 40s and died just one day af...
03/09/2026

In June 1924, Guy Woodliff passed away while serving as county coroner. He was in his early 40s and died just one day after falling ill.

His wife, Annie Woodliff, sought to succeed him, but she received the fewest votes. Even if she had been elected, she would never have had the chance to serve. The following month, Annie was killed in a car accident—becoming the sole fatality.

Annie ran for public office at a time when women in Alabama were still pushing against barriers to political participation. It is believed she may have been Etowah County’s first female candidate to appear on a ballot.

On this International Women’s Day, I’m grateful for women like Annie Woodliff who were willing to push boundaries and expand what was possible for women.

Take a moment today to thank the important women in your life.

Written by: Mollie Smith

Etowah County's history lives in your homes. If you have an artifact with a story to tell, consider letting us help pres...
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.

Thyme-Travel ThursdayHave you tried this vintage recipe for Creole eggs?
02/19/2026

Thyme-Travel Thursday
Have you tried this vintage recipe for Creole eggs?

Address

4412a Rainbow Drive
Rainbow City, AL
35906

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