Cities in Dallas County, AL
Dallas County is located in the central part of Alabama, with Selma as its county seat and largest city. Established in 1818, the county was named after U.S. Treasury Secretary Alexander J. Dallas. Rich in history, Dallas County played a pivotal role during the Civil Rights Movement, particularly with the 1965 Selma to Montgomery marches, which contributed to the passing of the Voting Rights Act. The county’s economy was historically based on agriculture, with cotton being the dominant crop during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Over time, Dallas County has diversified with industries such as manufacturing and healthcare contributing to its economic development.
The landscape of Dallas County is characterized by fertile farmland, rolling hills, and the Alabama River, which provides recreational opportunities and scenic beauty. The region’s history, particularly its Civil Rights legacy, continues to draw visitors from around the country.
All Cities and Towns in Dallas County, AL
Selma
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 14.4 square miles
- Population: 17,971 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 36701, 36703
- Latitude and Longitude: 32.4074° N, 87.0211° W
Location and History
Selma is located on the banks of the Alabama River and serves as the county seat of Dallas County. Incorporated in 1820, Selma became a major trading and transportation hub for cotton during the 19th century, and its economy thrived on the plantation system. In the 20th century, Selma gained national attention for its critical role in the Civil Rights Movement, particularly with the Selma to Montgomery marches, which began at the Edmund Pettus Bridge in 1965. The marches helped lead to the Voting Rights Act and cemented Selma’s place in American history.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Selma is home to Selma High School and Wallace Community College. Major landmarks include the Edmund Pettus Bridge, the National Voting Rights Museum, and Sturdivant Hall, a historic antebellum mansion.
Valley Grande
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 35.6 square miles
- Population: 4,020 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 36701
- Latitude and Longitude: 32.4754° N, 87.0208° W
Location and History
Valley Grande is located just north of Selma and was incorporated in 2003, making it one of the newest towns in Dallas County. Initially a rural community, Valley Grande was primarily known for its agricultural roots, with cotton and livestock farming driving the local economy. Its proximity to Selma has allowed it to grow as a suburban area while still maintaining a peaceful, rural atmosphere.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Valley Grande is served by Dallas County High School in nearby Plantersville. Major landmarks include Valley Creek Park, which offers outdoor recreation, and several historic homes that reflect the region’s antebellum history.
Orrville
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 1.1 square miles
- Population: 173 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 36767
- Latitude and Longitude: 32.3051° N, 87.2458° W
Location and History
Orrville is located in the western part of Dallas County. Incorporated in 1901, the town developed as a small agricultural community with cotton being its primary crop. Over the years, Orrville has remained a quiet rural town, characterized by its farmlands and small population. The town’s history is intertwined with the development of agriculture in the region and the local railroad system that once facilitated trade.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Orrville is served by Keith Middle-High School. Notable landmarks include the Orrville United Methodist Church, which has been a focal point of the community since the early 20th century, and nearby Old Cahawba, Alabama’s first state capital and a significant archaeological site.
Plantersville
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 4.6 square miles
- Population: 1,412 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 36758
- Latitude and Longitude: 32.6611° N, 86.9597° W
Location and History
Plantersville is located in the northern part of Dallas County and was settled in the early 19th century. The town developed around agriculture, with plantations being central to its early economy. Over time, Plantersville became known for its close-knit community and historical significance. The town’s growth slowed after the Civil War, but it retains its historic charm with many antebellum homes and buildings.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Plantersville is home to Dallas County High School, the oldest high school in the county. Landmarks include the Confederate Memorial Park, which serves as a historical site dedicated to Alabama’s Confederate veterans, and several historic churches that date back to the town’s early days.