Sturdivant, Tallapoosa, Alabama
Tallapoosa County, Alabama Under Water
The Sunken Hamlet of Sturdivant: A Tale of Tallapoosa's Forgotten Community​
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Nestled in the heart of Tallapoosa County, Alabama, lies a story almost lost to the depths of time and water. The small hamlet of Sturdivant, once a thriving community, now rests beneath the tranquil waters of Lake Martin. This blog post delves into the rich history of Sturdivant, its people, and the events that led to its submersion.
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A Brief History of Sturdivant
Sturdivant was a close-knit community located in the lush landscapes of Tallapoosa County. Known for its picturesque surroundings and warm, welcoming residents, the hamlet was a quintessential example of rural life in Alabama. The residents of Sturdivant were primarily engaged in agriculture, with sprawling farmlands and quaint homesteads dotting the area.
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The Birth of Lake Martin
The creation of Lake Martin, one of Alabama's largest artificial lakes, began with the construction of the Martin Dam in the 1920s. The dam, built by the Alabama Power Company, was intended to generate hydroelectric power and provide flood control, transforming the Tallapoosa River into a vast reservoir. While the project brought numerous benefits to the region, it also meant the inundation of several small communities, including Sturdivant.
Life in Sturdivant Before the Flood
Before the waters rose, Sturdivant was a vibrant community with a rich cultural tapestry. Local schools, churches, and businesses formed the backbone of daily life. Residents celebrated annual events, shared meals, and supported one another through life's challenges. The hamlet was more than just a place; it was a tightly knit family.
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The Flooding and Its Aftermath
As the waters of Lake Martin began to rise, the residents of Sturdivant faced a bittersweet farewell to their homes. The Alabama Power Company provided compensation and assistance in relocation, but the emotional toll was immeasurable. Generations of memories, the fruit of years of labor, and the essence of community were left behind, now preserved under the lake's surface.
Sturdivant's Legacy
Though submerged, the story of Sturdivant lives on. Lake Martin has become a popular destination for boating, fishing, and recreation, drawing visitors from all over. Beneath the calm waters, the remains of Sturdivant serve as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made in the name of progress. Local historians and descendants of the hamlet's original residents continue to share stories and preserve the memory of their sunken home.
Conclusion
The tale of Sturdivant is a testament to the resilience of its people and the enduring impact of a small community. As we enjoy the beauty and benefits of Lake Martin, let us also remember the hamlet that once stood proudly where the waters now flow. Sturdivant may be submerged, but its spirit remains ever present, a silent guardian of Alabama's history.
This page will provide information regarding the hamlet Sturdivant in Tallapoosa County Alabama, details about individuals from the same area with the Sturdivant surname and the Sturdivant Bank.
Sturdivant
Person, Place or Thing
History
Sturdivant, situated in Tallapoosa County, Alabama, boasts a rich history. A notable historical feature is the Savannah and Memphis Railroad, completed in 1872, which passed through Sturdivant. This railroad significantly contributed to transforming the area from a rural hamlet to a market town.
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Mr. Ransom C. Harris served as the congregational pastor in Sturdivant.
Mrs. Willie Burns was a schoolteacher.
Silas Farrow was a merchant in Sturdivant in 1890.
On May 26, 1887, Sturdivant needed rain, and only some crops were in good condition.
On July 15, 1887, a train derailed at Sturdivant Station due to the section hands overlooking a spike. The train was ten hours late; fortunately, no one was injured in the incident.
July 28th, a local newspaper article reported that the crops and citizens were doing well, noting that conditions in Sturdivant had improved significantly, especially with the establishment of a new school.
On December 4, 1887, Charley Willis and India Craddock were married at her parents' home near Sturdivant Station.
In 1890, Willie Burns, a female educator, taught school in Sturdivant.
​A.M. Ballard lived at Sturdivant Statiion in 1893
G.T. Craddock lived and died in Sturdivant Station in 1893
H.W. Craddock lived there.​
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Colored Instatute William Suddeth
Sturdivant Manson
The Sturdivant Mansion in Tallapoosa County, Alabama, is shrouded in mystery and legend. Now in ruins near Alexander City, it was once a grand home. According to local lore, the mansion is haunted by the spirits of residents who were tragically murdered there. People have reported seeing apparitions in the upper windows and lights at a distance, even though the mansion no longer has a roof or floors.
Restoration efforts are underway to preserve what remains of this historic site. It's a fascinating piece of local history with a ghostly twist!
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The big house at Sturdivant. Traveling salesmen could stop there and get a good meal and a night’s sleep, but also girls,” Roy Mathis said. The old bridge to Sturdivant mansion is on the east side of the river near the 280 crossing. According to our member Dean Bonner, the town of Sturdivant is underwater. The mansion was on top of the hill where the railroad ended, and people could stay overnight, continuing to Alexander City by way of the Stowe ferry.
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Sturdivant Mansion | Haunted Places | Jacksons' Gap, AL 36861
Nothing but a few walls remain of Sturdivant mansion except rumors of the ghosts that resided there. The ruin in the woods is reportedly haunted, though reports as to the exact nature of the haunting differ. There is a legend that a madman once slaughtered every person inside the home, but there are no official reports to back these claims up.
STURDIVANT FAMILY
Judge Allen Dudley Sturdivant 1819–1885 his Birth 29 JANUARY 1819 in Georgia, USA his Death 28 MARCH 1885 in Dadeville, Tallapoosa County, Alabama, USA.
Allen was born to Joel and Malinda Cockran Sturdivant on January 29, 1819, in Georgia, United States. He married Jane Caroline Clark, born on September 19, 1827. They had several children:
Thomas S.Sturdivant(1855–1923),
Linton Sturdivant (1858),
Braxton B. Sturdivant (1861–1902),
Linda Sturdivant (1867–1889).​​
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In 1870, Allen served as a Probate Judge in Dadeville, Tallapoosa, Alabama. By 1880, he was still in Dadeville, continuing his role as a Probate Judge. He served for at least 24 years. He passed away on March 28, 1885, at age 66 and was buried in Dadeville City Cemetery.
The Bank
One of three banks that opened in Tallapoosa County in 1890. Thomas S. Sturdivant owner.
Found On The Net
Tallapoosee Historical Museum
...STURDIVANT MANSION...There are many, many files at the museum that I have never seen the inside of. Once in a while when alone I may grab a folder or two and look inside. Check it out. Here are two views of the old bridge to Sturdivant mansion on the east side of the river near the 280 crossing. According to our member Dean Bonner, the town of Sturdivant is under water. The mansion was on top of the hill where the railroad ended and people could stay overnight, continuing on to Alexander City by way of the Stowe ferry. The pic gave no credit for a source.
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Sources
3. Historical Markers and War Memorials in Tallapoosa County
4. * '''Book''': ''Bulletin - Geological Survey of Alabama: Issues 17-18''<br/>United States: Geological Survey of Alabama, 1916, page 3<br/>[https://www.google.com/books/edition/Bulletin_Geological_Survey_of_Alabama/43QbZ2xNI8QC?hl=en&gbpv=1&dq=sturdivant+tallapoosa+alabama&pg=PA3&printsec=frontcover Google Books] (accessed 3 January 2025)