IMPORTANT PRESERVATION PROJECT
Cleanup of the East Wetumpka City Cemetery!
The East Wetumpka City Cemetery is uniquely located on a ridge between the forks of two creeks and the Coosa River. Burials took place mostly between 1830 and 1850, but there are unmarked graves as well. The cemetery was damaged in the 2019 tornado and was significantly overgrown until a recent cleanup in late February, 2024 supported by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Wetumpka and members of the Elmore County Historical Society. This is the start towards an ongoing preservation effort. Please call the museum at (334) 567-5097 with any questions.
Our History
In 1970, the Alabama Historical Commission, in an effort to encourage smaller communities throughout the state to collect, record, and preserve their local histories, instituted statewide organizational meetings of interested citizens. One such meeting was held in Wetumpka and led by the late Jeanette E. Barrett, former Wetumpka mayor and employee of the Alabama Historical Commission. The organizational meeting was attended by six or eight people who thought it was important to organize a local historical society, and the Elmore County Historical Society was formed. In May 1971, the charter for the organization was signed by about 100 Elmore County residents. Through the years, the Elmore County Historical Society, in conjunction with the Elmore County Museum, has sponsored various activities such as walking tours, arts programs, cemetery tours, and special exhibits at the museum to promote and preserve local heritage.
The Museum
The Elmore County Museum is a small, yet dynamic institution that aims to share the stories of Elmore County and its people. The museum features permanent as well as temporary exhibits, and provides educational programs year-round. The museum was housed in several locations before its permanent home in the historic Elmore County Post Office. Originally created by the Elmore County Historical Society, the museum has been administered by the City of Wetumpka since 2015.
General Membership
Membership is open to all persons or organizations interested in the history of Elmore County, Alabama. All persons or organizations desiring to help foster the stated objects and purposes of said Society may become members by requesting membership and paying membership dues. Membership is not restricted to residents of Elmore County but is open to anyone with a legitimate interest in the history and heritage of Elmore County and the preservation of its memory and historical landmarks. The amount required for annual dues is $20.00.
SECOND SUNDAYS - JOIN US AS WE EXPLORE LOCAL HISTORY!
Sept. 6 at 2:30pm
On Sunday, Sept. 6, 2024, Dr. Christopher D. Haveman will present The Removal of the Creek Indians from Alabama and Georgia, 1827-1849. All Second Sunday events take place at the Elmore County Museum, located at 112 South Main Street, Wetumpka, AL. Light refreshments will be served. All are welcome!
Oct. 13 at 2:30pm
On Sunday, Oct. 13, 2024, Jenny Stubbs will present on the life of Mary Olive Enslen Tinder. Tinder is widely regarded as the first female broadcaster on the Eastern seaboard. Mary Olive Enslen Tinder made history when she became the first woman to radio broadcast the Indianapolis 500. All Second Sunday events take place at the Elmore County Museum, located at 112 South Main Street, Wetumpka, AL. Light refreshments will be served. All are welcome!
Nov. 10 at 2:30pm
On Sunday, Nov. 10, 2024, Ken Tilley will present on the Alabama Aces from Elmore County. The term 'ace' is generally taken to mean any fighter pilot credited with shooting down five or more enemy aircraft. All Second Sunday events take place at the Elmore County Museum, located at 112 South Main Street, Wetumpka, AL. Light refreshments will be served. All are welcome!
Dec. 15 at 2:30pm
Join us for a catered holiday social at the Elmore County Museum on Sunday, December 8th at 2:30 pm. The Elmore County Museum will have its annual Nativity Exhibit up and it's a great way to get in the holiday spirit. 2024 marks the 10th year of this exhibit which is curated from over 500 beautiful and unique nativity scenes. The Society will also hold a brief annual meeting, electing new officers and board members. We look forward to seeing you soon!
JOIN US AND HELP SUPPORT LOCAL HISTORY
Become a member!
Your support and contributions will enable us to meet our goals and fund our mission.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The Board meets once a month at the Elmore County Museum on Tuesday at 6 p.m.
President, Calvin Chappelle
VP, Janice Howard
Treasurer, Gale Skinner
Secretary, Janice Massey
Janet Cox
Sharon Fox
Jan Wood
Robert Johnston
Jackie Earnest