Cities in Lowndes County, AL
Lowndes County, located in south-central Alabama, is known for its rich history and deep connection to the Civil Rights Movement. The county was established in 1830 and named after William Lowndes, a prominent South Carolina statesman. Historically, the county’s economy was centered on agriculture, particularly cotton farming, which relied heavily on enslaved labor before the Civil War. Today, Lowndes County is a place where rural charm meets historical significance, with its past rooted in both the antebellum South and the Civil Rights struggles of the 1960s, particularly during the Selma to Montgomery March.
County Facts:
- Population: Approximately 10,311 (2020 Census)
- County Seat: Hayneville
- Number of Cities and Towns: 4 incorporated towns and several unincorporated communities
List of Cities and Towns in Lowndes County, Alabama
Hayneville
City Facts:
- Area: 1.85 square miles
- Population: 764 (2020 Census)
- Latitude: 32.1835° N
- Longitude: 86.5805° W
Overview:
Hayneville, the county seat of Lowndes County, is a small town steeped in history. Founded in the early 19th century, it became the county seat in 1832, serving as a hub for the surrounding agricultural region. Like much of Lowndes County, Hayneville’s economy has traditionally relied on farming, particularly cotton, which was the backbone of the local economy before and after the Civil War. The town also played a significant role in the Civil Rights Movement, with key events such as the murder of civil rights activist Jonathan Daniels in 1965. Today, Hayneville remains a small, rural town, known for its quiet streets and close-knit community.
Landmarks and Schools:
Hayneville’s most significant landmark is the Lowndes County Courthouse, a historic building that still serves as the center of local government. Another key landmark is the Jonathan Daniels Memorial, dedicated to the civil rights activist who was killed in Hayneville. Schools in Hayneville include Central High School, which is part of the Lowndes County School District, providing education to students from the town and surrounding areas. Hayneville Elementary School also serves younger students, and both schools are integral parts of the community, offering academic and extracurricular activities.
Fort Deposit
City Facts:
- Area: 5.64 square miles
- Population: 1,205 (2020 Census)
- Latitude: 31.9874° N
- Longitude: 86.5771° W
Overview:
Fort Deposit, located in the southern part of Lowndes County, is the largest town in the county. The town was named after a military fort built during the Creek War of 1813-1814, which was used to store supplies (hence the name “Fort Deposit”). After the war, the area grew into a farming community, with cotton and livestock becoming the primary industries. Fort Deposit saw steady growth throughout the 19th century, and while it remains a small rural town, its historical significance and agricultural roots are central to its identity today. The town is also home to the annual Calico Fort Arts and Crafts Fair, one of the oldest and largest outdoor arts festivals in Alabama.
Landmarks and Schools:
The Fort Deposit Historic District, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is one of the town’s major landmarks, featuring well-preserved buildings that reflect the town’s 19th-century origins. The Calico Fort Arts and Crafts Fairgrounds is another important site, drawing thousands of visitors each year. Schools in Fort Deposit include Lowndes Academy, a private K-12 school known for its academic rigor and athletic programs, and Jackson-Steele Elementary School, which serves public school students in the area. The schools are central to the town’s community life, with local events and sports often bringing residents together.
Lowndesboro
City Facts:
- Area: 0.89 square miles
- Population: 103 (2020 Census)
- Latitude: 32.2743° N
- Longitude: 86.6086° W
Overview:
Lowndesboro is a picturesque town located along the Alabama River, known for its well-preserved antebellum homes and rich history. Established in the early 19th century, Lowndesboro was once a thriving agricultural community, with large cotton plantations dominating the local economy. The town’s historic district, which includes many Greek Revival-style homes, offers a glimpse into the South’s antebellum past. Despite its small population, Lowndesboro’s historical significance, particularly its role in Alabama’s agricultural development, continues to draw interest from historians and visitors alike. The town’s peaceful, rural atmosphere makes it a unique place in Lowndes County.
Landmarks and Schools:
Lowndesboro’s most notable landmark is its historic district, which features several antebellum homes, including the Lowndesboro Presbyterian Church and the Dicksonia Plantation ruins. These structures provide insight into the town’s historical prominence during the plantation era. The Lowndesboro Academy, which once served the community’s children, has since closed, and today, students typically attend schools in nearby Hayneville or Fort Deposit. Despite its small size, Lowndesboro’s historic charm and its role in the broader history of Lowndes County make it a special place for both residents and visitors.
Mosses
City Facts:
- Area: 10.43 square miles
- Population: 860 (2020 Census)
- Latitude: 32.2763° N
- Longitude: 86.7056° W
Overview:
Mosses is a rural town located in the western part of Lowndes County. Incorporated in 1979, it is one of the more recently established towns in the county. Mosses has a predominantly African American population and is known for its strong sense of community and resilience. The town’s history is closely tied to the Civil Rights Movement, with many of its residents involved in the struggles for voting rights and equality in the 1960s. Today, Mosses remains a small, close-knit community where agriculture plays a significant role in the local economy, and many residents continue to work on farms or in related industries.
Landmarks and Schools:
Mosses is home to the Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church, which has been a center for worship and community gatherings for decades. The church played a significant role in the Civil Rights Movement, serving as a meeting place for activists. Schools in Mosses include Central Elementary School, which is part of the Lowndes County Public School District. The town places a strong emphasis on education, and the local schools are seen as a cornerstone of the community, offering programs that support both academic success and community involvement.
Benton (Unincorporated Community)
Community Facts:
- Area: N/A (Unincorporated)
- Population: Approximately 50 (2020 estimate)
- Latitude: 32.3035° N
- Longitude: 86.8174° W
Overview:
Benton is an unincorporated community located along the Alabama River in northern Lowndes County. Although it is not officially incorporated, Benton has a long history dating back to the 19th century when it was a key transportation hub for river traffic. The town played an important role in the cotton trade, with steamboats frequently stopping at Benton to load and unload goods. Over time, however, the town’s significance waned as railroads replaced river transport. Today, Benton is a quiet, rural community with a small population, but its historical roots remain a key part of its identity.
Landmarks and Schools:
Benton is home to several historical landmarks, including the Benton Baptist Church, which has served the community since the 1800s. The town is also located near the Alabama River, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities such as fishing and boating. As an unincorporated community, Benton does not have its own school system, and children typically attend schools in nearby Hayneville or other parts of Lowndes County. Despite its small size, Benton’s historical significance and peaceful setting make it an important part of Lowndes County’s rural landscape.
White Hall
City Facts:
- Area: 17.45 square miles
- Population: 858 (2020 Census)
- Latitude: 32.3063° N
- Longitude: 86.7150° W
Overview:
White Hall is a small town located in northern Lowndes County, near the Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail. Incorporated in 1979, White Hall is known for its close association with the Civil Rights Movement, particularly as part of the route taken by marchers during the Selma to Montgomery March in 1965. The town has a predominantly African American population and has been a center for activism and community organizing since the Civil Rights era. Today, White Hall continues to honor its historical roots while also serving as a quiet residential community.
Landmarks and Schools:
One of White Hall’s key landmarks is its proximity to the Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail, which commemorates the struggles and victories of the Civil Rights Movement. The town is also home to several churches that played important roles during the movement, including the White Hall Missionary Baptist Church. Schools in White Hall include Jackson-Steele Elementary School, which serves younger students, while older students typically attend schools in nearby towns. The town’s historical significance and strong sense of community continue to define its identity.