History
Life in Jacksonville long centered on education, beginning in 1834 when a one-acre plot of land was reserved for a schoolhouse, and over the years various institutions of higher learning developed there that culminated in present-day Jacksonville State University. The land that became Jacksonville was purchased from Creek Indian Chief Ladiga in 1833. Originally called Drayton, the town was renamed Jacksonville in 1836. It developed a rich heritage as the county seat of Calhoun County, and its tranquility attracted new residents while businesses prospered, but that prosperity was broken by the War Between the States. In 1899 the county seat was moved to Anniston. A majority of Jacksonville’s male population, including four generals and the “Gallant Pelham,” fought for the Confederacy. At various times the town served as headquarters for Generals Beauregard, Wheeler, Polk, and B. M. Hill before occupation by Federal troops. Many Confederate heroes are buried in the City Cemetery.
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Jacksonville, Alabama · United States
