Cities in Randolph County, AL
Randolph County, located in east-central Alabama, was established in 1832 and named after John Randolph, a prominent Virginia congressman. Known for its scenic beauty, including rolling hills and numerous rivers and lakes, the county has historically been an agricultural region. Over the years, it has transitioned into a diverse community with strong ties to both agriculture and industry. Its economy, largely based on textiles and manufacturing, has also grown with the advent of tourism, particularly around Lake Wedowee. Randolph County offers a blend of rural charm and small-town living, while maintaining a rich cultural heritage.
County Facts:
- Population: Approximately 21,967 (2020 Census)
- County Seat: Wedowee
- Number of Cities and Towns: 5 incorporated cities and towns
List of Cities and Towns in Randolph County, Alabama
Wedowee
City Facts:
- Area: 4.19 square miles
- Population: 823 (2020 Census)
- Latitude: 33.3093° N
- Longitude: 85.4844° W
Overview:
Wedowee is the county seat of Randolph County and sits near the center of the county. It was established in the 1830s and derives its name from a Creek Indian chief. The town developed as a small agricultural center, with cotton being the primary crop in the early days. Over time, Wedowee grew slowly but steadily, maintaining its status as the administrative and judicial heart of Randolph County. The construction of the R.L. Harris Dam and the creation of Lake Wedowee in the 1980s brought a new wave of tourism to the area, attracting visitors for fishing, boating, and other water activities.
Landmarks and Schools:
One of the town’s key landmarks is the Randolph County Courthouse, a historic building that reflects the town’s long-standing role as the county seat. Lake Wedowee, located just outside the town, is a major recreational attraction, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and camping. Wedowee’s schools are part of the Randolph County School District, with Wedowee Elementary School and Randolph County High School serving the local community. These schools are known for their commitment to academic excellence and extracurricular activities, with strong athletic programs that bring the community together during sporting events.
Roanoke
City Facts:
- Area: 19.19 square miles
- Population: 5,311 (2020 Census)
- Latitude: 33.1515° N
- Longitude: 85.3716° W
Overview:
Roanoke is the largest city in Randolph County and has been a key commercial center since its incorporation in 1900. Located in the southern part of the county, Roanoke’s early economy was built around agriculture, particularly cotton farming, but it grew rapidly with the rise of the textile industry in the early 20th century. Roanoke is known for its historic downtown area, where many original buildings have been preserved, adding to the city’s small-town charm. In recent years, Roanoke has diversified its economy, with local industries and small businesses continuing to drive growth.
Landmarks and Schools:
The Handley High School Auditorium is one of Roanoke’s most iconic landmarks, showcasing the city’s dedication to education and the arts. Another key landmark is the Roanoke Downtown Historic District, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and features well-preserved commercial buildings from the early 20th century. Roanoke’s schools are part of Roanoke City Schools, including Handley High School, which is known for its academic achievements and successful athletic programs. Handley Middle School and Knight-Enloe Elementary School also serve the community, providing strong academic foundations for students.
Woodland
City Facts:
- Area: 3.58 square miles
- Population: 188 (2020 Census)
- Latitude: 33.3740° N
- Longitude: 85.3989° W
Overview:
Woodland, a small town located in the northeastern part of Randolph County, was incorporated in 1967. The town developed as a farming community, with cotton, corn, and livestock forming the backbone of its early economy. Woodland has remained small, but its residents take pride in their tight-knit community and strong agricultural roots. The town is also known for its school system, which has historically been a focal point of community life. While Woodland remains a rural town, it is home to several local businesses and has strong connections to surrounding towns and cities.
Landmarks and Schools:
Woodland’s key landmarks include its agricultural heritage, with the town surrounded by picturesque farmland and rolling hills. The Woodland High School campus serves as a central gathering point for the community, particularly during football season when the town rallies around its team. Schools in Woodland are part of the Randolph County School District, with Woodland High School and Woodland Elementary School providing education for local students. The schools are known for their strong academic performance and extracurricular programs, including competitive sports and student organizations.
Wadley
City Facts:
- Area: 4.30 square miles
- Population: 696 (2020 Census)
- Latitude: 33.1235° N
- Longitude: 85.5622° W
Overview:
Wadley is a small town in Randolph County, located along the Tallapoosa River. Established in 1908, Wadley became known for its agricultural economy and its role as a railroad stop in the early 20th century. The town’s location near the river made it an important transportation and trading hub. Wadley is perhaps best known for Southern Union State Community College, which was founded in 1922 and remains a key institution in the area. The town is closely tied to the college, with many residents either working at or attending Southern Union.
Landmarks and Schools:
Southern Union State Community College is the town’s most significant landmark, offering educational opportunities not only for Wadley residents but also for students from surrounding areas. The college campus is home to various cultural and athletic events that bring the community together. Wadley’s schools are part of the Randolph County School District, with Wadley High School providing education for local students. The school is known for its strong academic programs and successful athletics, particularly in football and basketball, which are central to community life.
Rock Mills
City Facts:
- Area: Unincorporated (Census-designated place)
- Population: 600 (2020 Census estimate)
- Latitude: 33.1579° N
- Longitude: 85.2941° W
Overview:
Rock Mills, an unincorporated community in eastern Randolph County, developed as a textile mill town in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The town grew around the Rock Mills Manufacturing Company, which was a major employer in the region for decades. Although the mills have since closed, Rock Mills retains much of its historical character, with many old mill buildings and homes still standing. Today, the town is a quiet residential community with a strong sense of history and connection to its industrial past.
Landmarks and Schools:
The remnants of the old textile mills are a key part of Rock Mills’ landscape, serving as reminders of the town’s industrial heritage. The Rock Mills Methodist Church, established in the 1800s, is another important landmark that reflects the town’s historical significance. Rock Mills does not have its own school system, so students attend schools in nearby Roanoke, including Handley High School. The town remains closely tied to Roanoke for both education and commerce, but it retains its unique identity as a former mill town with deep roots in Randolph County’s history.