The Local History Of Roanoke, Alabama
The land that would become Roanoke, Alabama was home to Muscogee Indians. Their remaining Creek tribes were removed in the year 1836 and development of Roanoke, Alabama began. The region was covered with virgin forests full of berries and trees and deer could be see in the forest, sometimes twenty at a time. The town was developed and was called High Pine. There was an uprising from the Creek tribes and the entire town was burnt to the ground.
After rebuilding the town, the name changed to Roanoke, and was incorporated on December 13, 1900. James Furlough was a man from Georgia who became the first white settler to come to Roanoke, Alabama.You can find a quick rundown here He build a home and a store in 1835. In 1901 a mill was built and generated revenue for the small town. It was the economic backbone of the town for over seven decades. The mill suffered two bankruptcies and the economy severely plummeted. The business district saw a great downfall and would not pick back again until a factory was built in 1978. Amoco Fabric and Fibers gave jobs to over one hundred people and boosted the economy.
In the 1970′s the development of Highway 431 bypass caused to booming Main street of Roanoke Alabama to suffer because important businesses were moved from Main Street to the bypass in the hopes to attract travelers. There were diners, delis, top dollar store and hardware stores on Main Street before Highway 431 bypass was developed.
Roanoke Alabama supports school parades and religious events. There are many different religious denominations in Roanoke. Catholic, Methodist, Baptist, Church of God and many more religious affiliations thrive in this town. The town is by a very large percentage democrat and this is reflected in the voter polls each year. There is also a county historical building and a library where you can find additional information regarding the local history of Roanoke, Alabama.