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.
July 6 at 2:30 pm
Step Back in Time with Elmore 250: The Legacy of Obediah Moore
Join us as we kick off the Elmore 250 Celebration - a year-long series of events honoring our country's rich history! The first program features historian Allen Herrod, who will present the remarkable life and service of Revolutionary War Solider Obediah Moore.
This talk takes place on Sunday, July 6 at 2:30 p. m. on the 2nd floor of the Wetumpka City Admin Bldg, 408 S. Main Street.
Don't miss this exciting start to a year of stories!
August 10 at 2:30 pm
Elmore 250 presents: The Remarkable Life of Abraham Mordecai
The Elmore 250 Celebration rolls on with the next event as historian Amy Milligan explores the fascinating life of Abraham Mordecai - one of the earliest white settlers, and likely the first Jewish resident, of what is now Alabama.
Mordecai played key roles in the American Revolution, the War of 1812, the Creek War, and Alabama's early development - as a trader, military scout, negotiator, and cotton industry pioneer.
Join us Sunday, August 10 at 2:30 p. m. on the 2nd floor of the Elmore County Historic Courthouse, 100 E. Commerce St, Wetumpka.
Don't miss this powerful glimpse into Alabama's early history!
Sept 25 at 6:00 pm
Elmore 250 presents: William Bartram through Art and Exploration
Experience the Southern wilderness as William Bartram saw it - through the eyes of the landscape artist Philip Juras. Join us on September 25 at 6 p. m. at the Wetumpka Civic Center for a powerful presentation featuring 68 oil paintings that capture the pre-settlement landscapes Bartram once described.
This Elmore 250 Celebration is complemented by a special exhibit at the Elmore County Museum and Fort Toulouse-Jackson Park, offering a rare visual journey into early Southern Nature and history.
History, art, and nature come together - don't miss it!
Oct 18 at 2:30 p. m.
Elmore 250 Celebration presents: The Courageous Story of Deborah Sampson
Join us on October 18 at 2:30 p. m. at the Cain's Chapel Family Life Center (96 Lightwood Road, Holtville) for a presentation by Susan Tomlinson about Deborah Sampson - one of the Revolutionary War's most remarkable figures.
Disguised as a man named Robert Shurtleff, Deborah fought bravely in the 4th Massachusetts Regiment, including at the Siege of Yorktown. She was the only woman known to receive a full military pension for her service after her true identity was revealed.
Celebrate this extraordinary story of courage and determination.
Wetumpka City Cemetery Tour Rescheduled!
The much-anticipated Wetumpka City Cemetery tour, originally scheduled for May 3rd, has been rescheduled to October 26th from 5 - 7 p. m. Hosted by the Elmore County Historical Society, this event offers an interesting glimpse into the lives of some of Elmore County's earliest and most colorful characters, brought to life by local volunteers.
Admission is $5.00 per person at the gate. Don't miss out on this one-of-a-kind opportunity to learn about the area's history in an unforgettable setting. For more information call the Elmore County Museum at (334)567-5097.
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, Sharon Fox
Treasurer, Gale Skinner
Secretary, Janice Massey
Janet Cox
Robert Johnston
Jackie Earnest
Rozanne Braswell