|
CHILTON COUNTY
Chilton County is located in the central part of the state with a population of 39,995. It was created December 30, 1968 by the Alabama legislature from land taken from Autauga, Bibb, Perry, and Shelby counties. The Coosa River forms the Eastern boundary of the county. Originally named Baker County, in honor of Alfred Baker, a prominent citizen, it was renamed Chilton in honor of Chief Justice William Parish Chilton on 17 December 1874. The original county seat was at Grantvill. In 1870 the courthouse burned and the county seat was removed to Goosepond, a stop on the Louisville and Nashville Railroad. The town was named Clanton after Brig. Gen. James Holt Clanton. Other significant towns and communities are Jemison, Thorsby, Verbena, Maplesville, and Mountain Creek.
Each June the Chilton County Peach Festival is held to promote the local peach industry. Many believe that Hernando DeSoto first brought peaches to Chilton County in the 1500s as he traveled down the Coosa River. With a climate suitable for peach growing, Chilton County is covered with as many as 10, 000 acres of peach orchards. The festival has grown into a week-long celebration including: the Peach Pageant, the Peach Art Show, the Peach Parade, and the Peach Auction. The Chilton Peach Festival celebrated its 50th anniversary in 1997.
The public school system in Chilton County was established in the early 1900's. As the population has increased, the student numbers have also increased over the last several take steps to address the educational needs of a growing population. There are thirteen schools in Chilton County.
|