City of Elba - Elba, AL - Alabama Historical Markers on Waymarking.com

Historical marker mostly dealing with the way Elba, AL got its name. The marker is located in front of the Elba City Hall at the intersection of Factory Street and Buford Street. The marker was placed by the Alabama Tourism Department and the City of Elba.

Marker Name: City of Elba Marker Type: Urban Addtional Information:: Elba began circa 1840. A ferry had been started across Pea River, thus beginning the town’s first name, Bridgeville. In 1850, the town’s 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. Date Dedicated / Placed: 2010 Marker Number: None

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