Elba

If you are looking for skyscrapers, traffic jams, smog and crowds of strangers ... don't look in Elba, Alabama. But ... if you want friendly people who wave at passing cars, industry that cares about the area it serves and the personal attention that merchants can offer, you have come to the right place.

History

Elba began around 1840. A ferry had been started across Pea River thus begetting 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 of 1851 and all present were allowed to put their idea for a name in a large top hat. 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 200 persons, Elba elected to become incorporated.

Recreation

Community facilities include an 85-acre Country Club with a nine-hole golf course; Hawkins-Williams park has an olympic-size pool, three ball fields, and four tennis courts; Legion Park has two ball fields and one tennis court; Lawford Park and Taylor Mill Park are equipped with picnic tables, bar-b-que grills, playground equipment and basketball courts. A boat ramp, basketball court, and picnic tables are located on the banks of Pea River.

Elba has a full-time recreational director and a year-round program for youth and adults. Baseball, softball, and basketball leagues are set up with the season. It's hard to tell who has more fun at the games, the players or the crowds.

Food and Lodging

Seven restaurants, one motel, and one bed & breakfast provide good food and Southern hospitality.