History and Facts

The Creek Indians lived along the Tallapoosa River and its streams for many hundreds of years before the Alabama Legislature, in 1832, created a county called Tallapoosa. On April 6th of 1940 the Menawa Indians transferred the land they were granted through the terms of the 1832 treaty to the courthouse commissioners of Tallapoosa County for the courthouse site.

Early Settlers of Tallapoosa County
The early settlers were nearly all farmers and planters. Under the Federal Land Law of 1820, which was in effect when Tallapoosa County was settled, a farmer could purchase a minimum of 80 acres of land for $1.25 an acre. For $100.00 cash, the settler could acquire a small farm.

Horseshoe Bend National Military Park

Horseshoe Bend National Military Park commemorates the epic frontier struggle between the advancing white American settlers and the Creek Indian Nation. On March 27, 1814 at Horseshoe Bend on the Tallapoosa River, 2000 regular army troops, Tennessee militia, and friendly Indians under the command of Andrew Jackson confronted 1,000 Creek Warriors under the leadership of their war chief Menawa of Okfuskee. The crushing defeat inflicted on the Indians effectively ended 300 years of military superiority of the Creek Nation in Alabama and Western Georgia. Today the descendants of the Indians and their White adversaries, who faced each other on the battlefield that early spring day, are American citizens. We identify with the people of both sides in this struggle. The cause for which they fought, the values and traditions they sought to preserve, the heroism, and the villainy displayed by both sides are now part of our American heritage.

 

Lake Martin

Tallapoosa County is also home to one of the most beautiful lakes in the country. Lake Martin was formed after the completion of Martin Dam on the Tallapoosa River. Martin Dam is used to generate hydroelectric power. The dam was begun in 1923 and completed in 1926. Lake Martin, with its 44,000 acres of crystal waters, can be enjoyed in January as well as July and every month of the year. One of the largest man-made lakes in the United States, Lake Martin is an excellent source of recreation. Lake Martin is a truly regional attraction for swimming, boating, fishing, skiing, camping and golfing. Lake Martin is one of our area's biggest assets.

Wind Creek State Park

Located off Highway 128 between Highways 63 and 280, Wind Creek State Park sports one of the largest camp sites in Alabama. Campers, fishermen, and boaters from across the country come to Wind Creek to enjoy water sports on Lake Martin. Wet boat storage, paved boat ramp access, a marina, a full-service store and bait shop service all boaters. A swimming area and beach with a bathhouse, picnic areas, and hiking trails are available for campers or day-use. Wind Creek offers 635 campsites on its 1400 acres. For more information contact (256) 329-0845.

Interesting Facts

• Tallapoosa County is approximately 45 miles wide by 75 miles long.
• Tallapoosa County has a population of 41,616.
• Lake Martin has 750 miles of shoreline.

Tallapoosa County, from as far north as Hackneyville , Daviston and Alexander City, reaching as far south as Tallassee is full of wondrous history.