Elba in Coffee County, Alabama — The American South (East South Central)
City of Elba
Photographed by David J Gaines,
1. City of Elba Marker
Inscription.
Elba began circa 1840. A ferry had been started across Pea River, thus beginning the towns first name, Bridgeville. In 1850, the towns name was changed to Bentonville in honor of a Missourian who had distinguished himself in service to Alabama in the Creek Indian War of 1814. A town meeting was held in December 1851 and all present were allowed to put their idea for a name in a large top hat. One Mr. Simmons had been reading a biography of Napoleon Bonaparte, who was exiled to the island of Elba, so he entered this name and it was drawn. The name was officially recognized early in 1852 when the State Legislature established a voting precinct including Elba. The same year, Elba was selected to be the county seat of Coffee County by a countywide election. In May 1853, with a population of over 20 persons, Elba elected to become incorporated. The City of Elba is governed by a mayor and 5-member council. Elected officials in 2010 included Mayor James E. Grimes and councilmen: Tom Hooks, Tommy Skinner, H.H. Culver, Harold Spicer and Ronnie Hammond.
Erected 2010 by Alabama Tourism Department and the City of Elba.
Topics and series.
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This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Settlements & Settlers. In addition, it is included in the Alabama Tourism Department series list. A significant historical month for this entry is May 1853.
Location. 31° 24.925′ N, 86° 3.901′ W. Marker is in Elba, Alabama, in Coffee County. It is on Buford Street, on the right when traveling west. The marker is located in front of the Elba City Hall at the intersection of Factory Street and Buford Street. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Elba AL 36323, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Regionally, this marker is in the American South, specifically in the Deep South, and in the Wiregrass. Globally, it is in North America, a Gulf of Mexico state, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once the territory of the Mississippian Culture, one of the Confederate States of America, and the Antebellum South.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 6 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies: Historic Court Square (about 600 feet away, measured in a direct line); Elba Lodge #170 AF & AM
Credits. This page was last revised on June 16, 2016. It was originally submitted on April 7, 2012, by David J Gaines of Pinson, Alabama. This page has been viewed 1,728 times since then and 72 times this year. Photos:1, 2. submitted on April 7, 2012, by David J Gaines of Pinson, Alabama. • Craig Swain was the editor who published this page.
