Cities in Macon County, AL
Macon County, located in the east-central part of Alabama, was established in 1832 from land ceded by the Creek Nation. The county is named after Nathaniel Macon, a prominent U.S. Senator from North Carolina. Macon County holds a unique place in the history of the civil rights movement, education, and agriculture. It is home to the famous Tuskegee University, founded by Booker T. Washington, and played a pivotal role in African American education and empowerment. The county has a rich agricultural history, though its economy has diversified over time, encompassing education, tourism, and small industries.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 19,532 (2020 Census)
- County Seat: Tuskegee
- Number of Cities and Towns: 4 (Tuskegee, Notasulga, Shorter, and Franklin)
List of Cities and Towns in Macon County, AL
Tuskegee
City Facts
- Area: 15.7 square miles
- Population: 8,394 (2020 Census)
- Latitude: 32.4313° N
- Longitude: 85.6910° W
City Overview
Tuskegee, the county seat of Macon County, is best known for its rich historical and educational significance. Founded in 1833, it became a major center for African American culture and education during the late 19th and 20th centuries. Tuskegee is home to Tuskegee University, founded by Booker T. Washington in 1881. The university was instrumental in advancing education for African Americans in the South. The city also played a critical role in World War II as the training site for the Tuskegee Airmen, the first African American military aviators in the U.S. Armed Forces. The legacy of these historical milestones continues to shape the identity of Tuskegee today.
Major Landmarks and Schools
Tuskegee is rich in historical landmarks, most notably the Tuskegee University National Historic Site, which includes the Booker T. Washington Monument and the George Washington Carver Museum. The Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site at Moton Field honors the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen. The city is served by the Macon County School District, which includes Booker T. Washington High School. Higher education is provided by Tuskegee University, a historically black university with a legacy of academic excellence. Tuskegee’s blend of history, education, and cultural heritage makes it a cornerstone of Macon County.
Notasulga
City Facts
- Area: 14.8 square miles
- Population: 914 (2020 Census)
- Latitude: 32.5585° N
- Longitude: 85.6686° W
City Overview
Notasulga is a small town located in the western part of Macon County, near the Lee and Tallapoosa County lines. Founded in 1841, Notasulga originally developed as a rural agricultural community. Over time, the town became known for its involvement in farming, particularly cotton and livestock. Notasulga is historically notable as the birthplace of Zora Neale Hurston, a prominent African American writer and anthropologist. The town retains its rural charm and close-knit community atmosphere, with agriculture still playing a key role in the local economy, alongside small businesses and residential developments.
Major Landmarks and Schools
One of Notasulga’s key landmarks is the Zora Neale Hurston birthplace marker, which honors the life and legacy of the influential author. The town is also home to several churches that have been central to the community for generations. Educationally, Notasulga High School serves students from kindergarten through 12th grade and is part of the Macon County School District. Notasulga’s quiet, rural environment and historical connections make it an important part of Macon County’s cultural landscape.
Shorter
City Facts
- Area: 2.3 square miles
- Population: 385 (2020 Census)
- Latitude: 32.3993° N
- Longitude: 85.9357° W
City Overview
Shorter is a small town in southeastern Macon County, located near the junction of Interstate 85 and U.S. Route 80. Founded in the late 19th century, Shorter developed primarily as a farming community, with cotton as the dominant crop. In recent years, the town has diversified its economy with the introduction of small industries and commercial developments. Its location along major transportation routes has made Shorter a growing hub for travelers and businesses. The VictoryLand greyhound racing track and casino, located nearby, has also become a significant economic driver for the town.
Major Landmarks and Schools
Shorter’s most prominent landmark is VictoryLand, a gaming and entertainment complex that draws visitors from across the region. The town is also home to several churches that have been central to the community since its founding. Shorter is part of the Macon County School District, and students typically attend schools in Tuskegee. The town’s blend of rural life, economic development, and easy access to major highways makes it a key player in the county’s future growth.
Franklin
City Facts
- Area: 1.0 square miles
- Population: 145 (2020 Census)
- Latitude: 32.3893° N
- Longitude: 85.8413° W
City Overview
Franklin is a small, rural town in southern Macon County, located near the Tallapoosa River. Established in the early 20th century, Franklin has always been a quiet, close-knit farming community. Its economy has traditionally been based on agriculture, with cotton, corn, and livestock being the mainstays of local farms. The town’s small population and rural atmosphere give it a peaceful and idyllic quality, where residents enjoy a slower pace of life while still being within driving distance of Tuskegee and Auburn.
Major Landmarks and Schools
Franklin’s landmarks are primarily rural in nature, with the surrounding farmlands and forests offering natural beauty and outdoor activities such as hunting and fishing. The town is served by the Macon County School District, with students attending schools in nearby towns like Tuskegee. Franklin’s rural charm, combined with its rich agricultural heritage, makes it an important part of the county’s farming community. It offers a quiet, peaceful lifestyle for residents who prefer country living.