Cities in Chilton County, AL
Chilton County is located in central Alabama, situated between Birmingham and Montgomery. Established on December 30, 1868, the county was originally named Baker County but was renamed in 1874 to honor William Parish Chilton, a former Alabama Supreme Court justice and Confederate congressman. Chilton County is best known for its peach orchards, earning it the title of “Peach Capital of Alabama.” Agriculture, particularly the production of peaches, has been a cornerstone of the county’s economy for over a century.
The county seat is Clanton, the largest city in Chilton County. In addition to agriculture, the county’s economy has diversified with industries such as manufacturing and retail. Chilton County is also known for its scenic landscapes, featuring rolling hills, forests, and rivers. The county’s central location, along Interstate 65, makes it a convenient spot for travelers between Alabama’s major cities.
All Cities and Towns in Chilton County, AL
Clanton
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 22.1 square miles
- Population: 8,768 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 35045, 35046
- Latitude and Longitude: 32.8387° N, 86.6293° W
Location and History
Clanton is located in the center of Chilton County, serving as the county seat. It was incorporated in 1873 and named after Brigadier General James H. Clanton, a Confederate officer. Clanton has been an agricultural center since its founding, with peaches becoming the dominant crop in the early 20th century. The city has continued to grow as a commercial hub for the surrounding rural areas, largely due to its strategic location along Interstate 65.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Clanton is home to Chilton County High School and LeCroy Career Technical Center. Notable landmarks include the Chilton County Courthouse, the iconic Peach Water Tower, and Durbin Farms, a popular stop for fresh produce and local goods.
Jemison
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 11.3 square miles
- Population: 2,594 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 35085
- Latitude and Longitude: 32.9596° N, 86.7466° W
Location and History
Jemison is situated in the northern part of Chilton County. It was incorporated in 1907 and named after Colonel Robert Jemison, a prominent businessman and politician. The town grew around the railroad, which served as a major transportation route for agricultural products, including peaches and cotton. Over time, Jemison developed into a quiet residential community with easy access to Birmingham and Montgomery.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Jemison is served by Jemison High School and Jemison Middle School. Landmarks include the Jemison Historical Marker and Minooka Park, a popular location for outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, and hiking.
Thorsby
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 5.1 square miles
- Population: 2,062 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 35171
- Latitude and Longitude: 32.9154° N, 86.7166° W
Location and History
Thorsby is located just north of Clanton in the northern part of Chilton County. It was founded in 1895 by a group of Scandinavian immigrants who sought to establish an agricultural colony. The town was named after one of its early settlers, Theodore Thorson. Early settlers focused on fruit farming, especially peaches and strawberries, which remain central to the town’s economy today.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Thorsby is home to Thorsby High School, which serves as the town’s main educational institution. Landmarks include the Scandinavian Cemetery and Helen Jenkins Chapel, both of which reflect the town’s unique immigrant heritage.
Maplesville
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 3.1 square miles
- Population: 708 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 36750
- Latitude and Longitude: 32.7853° N, 86.8780° W
Location and History
Maplesville is located in the western part of Chilton County. Incorporated in 1914, the town originally grew around the railroad, which was a vital link for the transport of cotton and timber. In its early years, Maplesville was a significant commercial center for nearby farms and plantations. Today, it maintains its small-town charm and serves as a rural community with deep historical roots.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Maplesville High School is the main educational institution in the town. Key landmarks include the Maplesville Railroad Depot, a symbol of the town’s early development, and nearby Confederate Memorial Park, a state park that commemorates Alabama’s Civil War veterans.
Verbena (Unincorporated)
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: N/A (unincorporated community)
- Population: Approx. 500
- Zip Codes: 36091
- Latitude and Longitude: 32.7526° N, 86.5105° W
Location and History
Verbena is an unincorporated community located in the southern part of Chilton County. Founded in the late 19th century, Verbena was initially a popular summer retreat for wealthy residents of Montgomery and Birmingham, who sought refuge from the city heat. The town features many historic homes that date back to the 1800s, and it remains a quiet residential area today.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Verbena is served by Verbena High School, which offers K-12 education. Notable landmarks include the historic Verbena Methodist Church and several antebellum homes that reflect its history as a resort community for the Southern elite.