# Elkmont, Alabama

Elkmont is a town in Limestone County, Alabama, United States, and is included in the Huntsville-Decatur Combined Statistical Area. As of the 2020 census, the population of the town was 411, down from its record high of 470 in 2000.

## 19th Century History

Elkmont’s history traces back to the early 19th century when settlers, primarily of European descent, moved into what is now Limestone County, Alabama. The area was originally home to Native American tribes, but as European-American migration increased, so did land disputes and territorial changes. By the early 1800s, pioneers seeking fertile land and new opportunities began establishing homesteads along Elk River and the surrounding ridges. One of the earliest recorded families, John and Mary Maples, settled near present-day Elkmont around 1808. The area attracted farmers and tradesmen who built a small but growing community centered around agriculture and commerce. In the early summer of 1817, Levi Simms and his family arrived at a small stream west of what is now known as Elkmont.
As settlement expanded, Elkmont became a focal point for local trade and travel. The establishment of schools, churches, and businesses helped solidify its status as a thriving rural community. By the mid-19th century, Elkmont was positioned along important transportation routes, making it a strategic location for growth. The arrival of the railroad in 1859 further accelerated its transformation from a small settlement into a vital hub for trade and travel in North Alabama.
Elkmont was a stop along the newly-constructed Tennessee and Alabama Central Railroad in 1859. In 1866, the name was changed to "Elkmont," after the elk that once flourished in the area. The Tennessee and Alabama Central eventually became part of the L&N Railroad system, which built the current depot (now used as a community center) in 1887. The railroad tracks have since been removed, and are now part of the Richard Martin Trail, formerly known as "Rails to Trails." Elkmont incorporated in 1873.
During the Civil War, the Battle of Sulphur Creek Trestle was fought just south of Elkmont in September 1864. The site is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
A letter published in The Athens Post in April 1873 highlights the rapid growth and development of Elkmont, which had long been overshadowed by criticism and accusations. Despite some notoriety it endured, the town was thriving, incorporating a territory of one square mile. The first elected mayor, R. O. Woodfin, along with aldermen J. L. McWilliams, J. A. Pettus, L. C. Fogg, and W. J. Holt, were seen as capable leaders. Education was also progressing, with W. R. Hansard running a successful full-day school. Organizations like the Masons and the Red Men were strengthening the community, while business activity was booming. Plans were in motion to build a church, but funding was still needed. The letter called upon citizens of nearby Athens to support Elkmont’s growth, reflecting a town eager to establish itself as a strong and respectable community within Limestone County.
On March 23, 1882, a correspondence from Elkmont, Alabama, published in The Alabama Courier, detailed agricultural progress, local news, and social events within the community. Farmers were diligently planting corn, with hopes for a bountiful harvest if conditions remained favorable, while wheat and oat crops showed promise. The cotton market was active, and concerns arose over potential losses in the peach crop due to recent frosts. Socially, there had been a noticeable absence of weddings, and visits from out-of-town guests, including Miss Emma Steele of Madison County and Misses Malone and Cox of Athens, had sparked local interest. Health concerns were noted, with a smallpox outbreak near "Over Elk" affecting the family of Mrs. Grigsby, a case of measles in the Hyde family, and illnesses reported among Dr. T. C. Pettus of Pettusville, Mrs. M. A. Redus, and Mrs. Gue Evans. Col. Davis, known as "Old Rip," visited Elkmont on professional business and was mentioned as a formidable candidate for Congress. Additionally, the article called for prohibitionist candidates, including John T. Morgan, to represent the region in the state legislature. The correspondent, signing as "Boot Jack," expressed a desire to continue writing for the newspaper and wished success to The Alabama Courier.
On May 25, 1882, a correspondence from Elkmont, Alabama, published in The Alabama Courier, reported on local health, agriculture, and social events. While most residents were well, Mrs. M. A. Redus remained in poor health. Farmers faced challenges from a recent frost but prepared for the upcoming harvest. Politically, locals expressed support for Mr. Pryor as a potential gubernatorial candidate. A notable event was the wedding of Esq. Shields and Miss Wessie Shields on May 18, held at the Presbyterian church and followed by celebrations in both Lynnville, Tennessee, and Elkmont. The correspondent humorously reassured local women that bachelors remained available and invited the community to enjoy upcoming harvest festivities.
On September 14, 1882, Elkmont, Alabama, experienced notable developments and social events within the community. During this time, T. P. Wood relocated his business within the town, setting up a new house on Main Street, while S. Rosenz & Bro. made improvements to a building formerly owned by T. H. Gilbert, where they planned to open a dry goods store. Additionally, Smith & Laughtmiller established a grocery store, and T. J. Scott Jr. took charge of the town’s post office. Walter McWilliams, a well-liked young man, moved from Elkmont to Athens, where he remained accessible to his many friends. The town also experienced sorrow, as the passing of Mrs. M. A. Redus left behind a grieving husband, three daughters, and numerous grandchildren and friends. Shortly thereafter, Mrs. Ella Dawson, who had married just the previous fall, succumbed to paralysis of the brain, leaving her husband and community mourning her untimely loss. On September 6, the infant child of John and Mary Thompson passed away, further deepening the town's grief. In terms of health, Mattie Smith was reported to be in delicate condition, although Dr. M. F. Westmoreland was said to be improving, much to the relief of his friends. Social activities continued, with several visitors from surrounding areas, including Giles County, Tennessee, and Prospect, Tennessee, coming to visit friends and family. A singing school, led by Abner McKenzie, took place at the home of L. H. Hyde, where attendees sang before setting their books aside to enjoy socializing. Additionally, T. O. Bridgforth celebrated his 55th birthday with a large family reunion and dinner, which was described as one of the most sumptuous meals enjoyed since the end of a severe drought. The town also saw the beginning of a new school term, with W. R. Hanserd serving as the teacher and assisted by his daughter. The school was held in a healthy location, and it was believed that an education there was among the best opportunities for local children. The town also faced changes in journalism, as a writer known as "Vasor" resigned from the editorial department of The Alabama Courier, leaving a vacancy in the local newspaper's operations.
Elkmont's early economy was driven by agriculture, with local farmers growing cotton, wheat, and corn. Reports from the 1880s indicate that the cotton yield was better than expected in some years, and wheat production was sufficient to support the local economy.$^{[11]}$ The town also developed businesses such as blacksmithing, furniture making, and general stores, which were crucial for local commerce.$^{[12]}$
The Nashville & Decatur Railroad, running through Elkmont, played a crucial role in its economic development. In the late 1800s, local citizens frequently used the railway for travel between Athens, Pulaski, and beyond. However, railroad-related accidents were a common danger, with multiple fatalities reported in the late 19th century.
Elkmont residents actively participated in church gatherings, Christmas celebrations, and educational initiatives. In December 1885, Professor Moore organized a Christmas event at the local school, reflecting the community's strong emphasis on faith and education. The town also saw visits from families and friends, as noted in local newspaper reports detailing social events and reunions.
In July of 1888, Elkmont, Alabama, experienced a notable gathering at French’s Mill, where the community came together for an event on Friday that was regarded as a success despite threatening weather. The occasion was marked by both celebration and sorrow, as the town mourned the passing of Dr. Howell B. Graves, a respected figure and long-standing member of the community. Dr. Graves, who was approximately seventy-five years old at the time of his death, had been a well-known presence in the area, having raised a large family, many of whom remained in the region. His passing was deeply felt by residents, as he was considered one of the foundational figures of Limestone County. The article also noted that several addresses were given during the event, reflecting on the history and progress of the area. However, the inability to record or report all the speeches in detail was lamented. The gathering at French’s Mill was described as one of the most pleasant social occasions in Elkmont’s history, bringing together families and friends to share in both remembrance and communal spirit.
In late September 1888, the town had taken measures to protect itself from the threat of yellow fever, which was a significant worry in the region at the time. The newspaper stated that "Elkmont was nearly depopulated" by the outbreak of yellow fever that began in Decatur. Life in Elkmont was marked by social movements, with families relocating, such as the family of Mr. H. D. Lane, who had moved to Tennessee. Social visits were common, including Miss Sallie Bettie Mason traveling to Spring Hill, Tennessee, to see her sister. The town also saw economic growth, as John N. Crawford opened what was described as one of the most attractive saloons in Alabama. The cotton trade remained strong, with farmers bringing in cotton wrapped in domestic fabric, which was noted for its neat appearance. Additionally, Mrs. Irvin, who had been staying at the Ragsdale residence for an extended period, left for Tennessee, reflecting the fluid movement of residents between Elkmont and neighboring areas. These local developments highlighted the town’s resilience and engagement in commerce, social life, and public health measures during this period.
In March 1889, Elkmont, Alabama, was an active town experiencing social and economic growth. The town had strong ties to its sister city, Pulaski, Tennessee, with frequent travel and commerce between the two communities. Local businesses in Elkmont thrived, offering a wide range of goods, including an extensive selection of perfumes and toiletries that were noted as some of the finest available in nearby Athens. Miss Rebecca Williams, a well-known resident, had been seriously ill, but the community was relieved to learn that her condition was improving. Social visits were common, with Judge Thos. N. McClellan of the Alabama Supreme Court spending time in the area. The town was also politically engaged, with candidates, such as R. Walker, announcing their campaigns for local office. Additionally, Elkmont’s railway connections were vital for both passenger travel and trade, with multiple daily train departures facilitating movement between Alabama and Tennessee. The community remained tightly knit, balancing business, politics, and social life while maintaining its historical connection to Pulaski as a key regional partner.
On May 31, 1889, at the 5th annual concert of Elkmont High School, with a crowd of over 2000, during the closing exercises, a young man named Sam Reed was shot and killed.
In October of 1891, the following people were advertising in The Limestone Enterprise with their location in Elkmont: J.W. Tuck "Poplar Shingles at bottom prices!", N.S. Hollon "Funeral Undertaker and Manufacturer of Fine Burial Caskets," Bob Lee McWilliams "Fancy and Family Groceries," Mrs. W.T. Strane "Dealer in Millinery, Fancy Goods, and Notions, Dress Goods and Trimmings," L.M. Hughey "Carpenter and Builder."
On February 9, 1893, a correspondence from Elkmont, Alabama, published in The Alabama Courier, detailed local church, social, and agricultural news. The Methodist Episcopal Church secured Rev. Eugene Hawkins as pastor for the year. A major event was the marriage of Mr. Kirby Cartwright of Elkmont to Miss Maggie Steele of Madison County on January 31. Nat Grafton of Athens visited and delivered a talk on Christian Endeavor. Mrs. Mary Nichols, recently widowed in Texas, was seriously ill with typhoid fever at her father’s home. Farmers were busy preparing for another crop, with encouragement to raise hogs, hominy, and cotton. A Sunday school convention was planned for February 18 at State Line. Lem H. Hyde continued his blacksmithing work at Antioch Crossroads, while Mr. Hollon and his family prepared to move to Athens. The article closed with lighthearted local anecdotes, including a humorous mix-up involving a wheelbarrow and an umbrella.

## 20th Century

In November of 1901, Mrs. William Gray, the wife of Elkmont’s mayor, passed away at 6 a.m. following a prolonged illness due to lung fever. Her passing was a significant loss not only to her family but also to the wider community. She was the sister of Thomas Caldwell, a high-ranking official with the Louisville and Nashville Railroad in Nashville, Tennessee. Survived by her husband, son, and numerous friends, she was remembered as a respected and cherished member of society. The funeral was scheduled to take place at the Gray residence in Elkmont. Her death marked a moment of grief for the small town, as she had been an important social figure in both Athens and Elkmont.
In July of 1902, William Gray, the mayor of Elkmont, married Sarah Davis, a highly regarded educator from the area. The wedding took place at the bride’s mother's home. A Birmingham Post-Herald article describes Davis as one of the most accomplished young women in Elkmont, while Gray was noted as a prominent businessman.
In 1907, Fred Gray opened a mercantile store and a cotton gin in town and Citizens Bank opened a branch in Elkmont.
On September 19, 1907, a devastating fire broke out in Elkmont, located along the Louisville and Nashville Railroad. The blaze destroyed the stores of Thomas P. McWilliams and Bud Horton, along with the building that housed the post office and telephone station. The total damage was estimated at $7,000, with only $2,000 covered by insurance. The cause of the fire remained unknown, and it was considered remarkable that the entire town was not consumed, given that most buildings were wooden and closely packed together. This was the first major fire in the town's business district in many years. The post office suffered significant losses, including a large quantity of stamps and all mail stored inside. Postmaster Robert Evans planned to operate from temporary quarters until a permanent location could be arranged.
On October 28, 1910, T. W. Evans, a farmer from Hartselle, Alabama, was killed in a tragic accident at the Elkmont train station when a railroad torpedo exploded. Evans, who was visiting his son, Robert Evans, the local postmaster, was waiting for a southbound train when a prank by the Louisville and Nashville Railroad agent led to his death. The agent had placed a torpedo on the tracks as a joke, intending to hear it explode when the train passed. When the locomotive ran over the device, it detonated, and a piece of the shell struck Evans in the chest, killing him instantly. A successful planter who had previously lived near Elkmont before relocating to Hartselle, Evans left behind a wife and several children. The unusual and fatal accident, caused by a misguided prank, shocked the local community.
On August 18 and 19, 1916, the town of Elkmont, Alabama, experienced two tragic incidents that claimed multiple lives and deeply affected the community. The first tragedy occurred on the evening of August 18, when Frank Canip, a 42-year-old farmer, and his 13-year-old son drowned while fishing in the Elk River. It was believed that after catching minnows, the boy lost his balance while tying his line on the opposite bank and fell into six feet of water. Canip attempted to save his son, but both were overcome and drowned. A search party recovered their bodies the following morning, and they were buried in the same grave at Pettusville in a widely attended funeral. The second tragedy took place on the morning of August 19, when Mrs. May Hide McCown, the wife of a machinist from New Decatur, was driving a Ford automobile with four children as passengers. While hurrying to return home ahead of an approaching storm, one of the car’s tires punctured, causing the vehicle to skid and overturn twice. Her six-year-old son suffered a crushed skull when the car ran over him, and an eight-year-old girl from the Adams family, also in the vehicle, was pinned underneath, suffering fatal head injuries. The other passengers were thrown clear and survived. The accident was particularly shocking as it occurred on a perfectly level road. The two tragedies, occurring within a 24-hour span and involving families living just half a mile apart, brought profound grief to the small community of Elkmont.
The Decatur Daily announced in August of 1929 "Elkmont to have electricity now." The Alabama Power Company line ran from Athens and serviced 70 people in the area.
L. W. Currin, a former mayor of Elkmont who later became an automobile dealer in Pulaski, Tennessee, was involved in a severe accident on Christmas Day of 1929 while traveling with his wife and child to visit relatives in Elkmont. Their car veered off the road and into a ditch, severely injuring Currin, who suffered head trauma and never regained consciousness. His wife sustained minor injuries but survived. Initially, there were conflicting reports about the accident, with some accounts suggesting a collision with a bus, while others stated the car had simply skidded on a slippery road. Currin, who had been a well-known figure in Limestone County and remained connected to Elkmont, passed away shortly after being transported to Pulaski for medical care. His death was a tragic event for both Pulaski and his hometown of Elkmont, where he had left a lasting impact as both a politician and businessman.
In September of 1930, J.W. Warren, a former mayor of Elkmont, passed away at the age of 74. A well-respected community member, Warren was known for his contributions to the Methodist Church and his strong presence in local affairs. His funeral was held at the Elkmont Methodist Church.
In November of 1932, Elkmont Mayor D.W. Driver experienced a personal crisis that nearly led to his death when he attempted to take his own life. According to reports, Driver first attempted to fire his gun against himself, but the weapon misfired, sending the shot into a wall instead. Not deterred, he made another attempt, this time with a more direct aim at his chest, resulting in a severe wound to his left breast. Miraculously, he survived and was able to receive medical care at his home while recovering from the injury. Before the incident, he had written four letters—one to his wife, one to his children, one to the town of Elkmont, and one to the community at large—expressing his worries and intentions. A former station agent for the L&N Railroad, Driver had transitioned into business, where he had found success. The community rallied around him in the aftermath, recognizing his past contributions and hoping for his recovery. Despite the tragedy, he remained well-regarded and respected by those who knew him.
As the United States entered World War II, local governments across Alabama mobilized to support national defense efforts. In Elkmont, Mayor Gilbert R. Smith was selected to serve on the Limestone County Defense Council, a newly formed committee tasked with overseeing resources and preparation for the war. The council’s responsibilities included managing agricultural resources, ensuring civil protection, addressing health and welfare concerns, and maintaining industrial production. This was a significant role, as small towns like Elkmont were vital in supplying manpower, food, and materials for the war effort. Alongside other local officials from Limestone County, Smith was expected to coordinate with state and federal agencies to implement necessary policies and emergency measures. His appointment reflected Elkmont’s commitment to contributing to the broader national mission, demonstrating the town’s involvement in historical events beyond its borders.
A Birmingham News article from June 25, 1945, recognizing that Sundays were often the loneliest day of the week for families with loved ones in military service, Robert B. Evans, the longtime postmaster of Elkmont, Alabama, took it upon himself to open the post office on Sundays so that mothers, wives, and sweethearts could receive letters from soldiers. He personally staffed the post office at various times throughout the day, ensuring that families like Mrs. Lacy Higgins, who eagerly awaited letters from her son serving with the Fifth Marines in the Pacific, could stay connected. Miss Bernice Smith, a local schoolteacher, also benefited from Evans’ efforts, as she frequently received letters from multiple servicemen. His dedication to the community over 30 years, spanning multiple political administrations, made him a beloved figure, and it was understood that no one would apply for his job as long as he wished to remain postmaster. Only military mail was delivered on Sundays, and no money orders were issued or cashed.
In September of 1948, Charles Compton, a graduate of Elkmont High School and the son of Mr. and Mrs. W. Merritt Compton of Elkmont, turned down an offer to play professional baseball with the Cleveland Indians. Instead of pursuing a career in Major League Baseball, the 18-year-old chose to enlist in the U.S. Navy.
In August of 1952, Elkmont found itself in an unusual political situation when no candidates came forward to run for the positions of mayor or aldermen. In small towns like Elkmont, participation in municipal elections was sometimes limited, but this election cycle was particularly concerning because it left the town without any new leadership contenders. Under the law, the incumbent officials were required to remain in office until new candidates stepped up to replace them. This meant that the current mayor, Hubert R. Smith, and the existing town council members, including Carl Robison, Fred Gray Jr., Willie B. Jones, and Lewis Morris, would continue serving indefinitely. The situation mirrored similar issues in nearby Ardmore, where the mayor had also planned to step down but was unable to due to a lack of candidates. The election shortage highlighted broader challenges in rural civic engagement, as small communities struggled to find residents willing to take on leadership roles in local government.
In September of 1952, while neighboring towns like Mooresville and Trinity were set to elect new officials through a write-in system, Elkmont decided to forgo an election, keeping the existing leadership in place. The difficulty in finding citizens willing to accept the responsibilities of mayor and council led to this decision. Mayor Lewis Morris and council members Fred Gray Jr., George Gray, Max Head, Joseph T. Evans, and H. L. Morris Jr. continued their service.
In August of 1954, Gilbert Rowe Smith, a former mayor of Elkmont, passed away at 84. Smith had served as mayor since 1932 until his resignation on July 31 of that year. He was a well-respected civic leader, having also been president of the Farmers Merchant Bank and an active member of the Methodist Church. His contributions to the community spanned decades, and his passing marked the loss of a dedicated public servant.
In 1958, The L&N closed the Elkmont depot station.
In 1962, Elkmont embarked on a crucial project to establish a municipal water system, addressing long-standing issues with water shortages. The town had been reliant on wells and other unreliable sources, leading to frequent disruptions in the water supply, especially in the hot summer months. To move forward with the project, the town sought a $100,000 bond to finance the new system, but a legal technicality stood in the way—Elkmont’s officials had not been formally re-elected in years. Since no one could recall when the last municipal election had taken place, it became necessary to legally reaffirm the current government to validate the bond agreement. The town’s attorneys assured that recertification was a mere formality, and the same officials—Mayor Louis Morris and council members Fred Gray Jr., Max Head, George Gray, Harry Morris, and Joe Evans—were expected to be confirmed. The new water system, once completed, would provide a stable and consistent source of water to approximately 100 homes, improving the quality of life for residents and making the town more attractive for potential growth.
In March of 1963, the Elkmont Town Council took a major step toward improving public infrastructure by approving contracts for a new water system. The project, totaling $91,185, was divided into two main contracts—one for constructing the main pipeline and another for building an elevated 60,000-gallon storage tank. The funding for the initiative came primarily from a government loan, which was secured with the help of local and state officials. Five different construction firms placed bids for the work, and the winning contracts were awarded to J.B. McCrary Construction Company for the main system and Whitmire Tank Company for the storage tank. The water supply for the town was planned to come from a natural spring on a local landowner’s property, ensuring a steady source of clean water. Officials noted that 99 percent of Elkmont residents had signed up for the new system, demonstrating widespread support for the project. This expansion marked a crucial milestone in the town’s modernization efforts, paving the way for further growth.
In November of 1972, Following the resignation of Mayor Joe Evans, the Elkmont Town Council appointed Aaron Brackeen to serve as the new mayor. Brackeen, a longtime resident of the town, had spent much of his career working at Red Stone Arsenal before retiring. In addition to his military-related work, he had also served as a principal at multiple schools, including East Limestone, Clements, and Ardmore High Schools, making him a well-known figure in the education sector. His appointment to the mayor’s office came without opposition, as no other candidates had campaigned for the position. Brackeen was expected to serve a four-year term, during which he would oversee local governance and infrastructure projects. His experience in leadership and education was seen as an asset to the town, and his selection reflected the community’s trust in his ability to guide Elkmont forward.
In August, 1975, a Birmingham News article described how Mayor Aaron Brackeen, 73 at the time, played a pivotal role in Elkmont’s development, dedicating long hours to town improvements despite earning only $50 a year, which he used for membership in the Athens-Limestone County Chamber of Commerce. A retired teacher with 22 years in education and another 22 at Redstone Arsenal, Brackeen was deeply committed to his community and determined to restore Elkmont’s former prosperity. One of his major accomplishments was overseeing the creation of a $96,000 municipal park, which included a baseball and softball field, a tennis court, a picnic area, a playground, a pavilion, restrooms, and a large paved parking lot. Plans were already underway for additional recreational expansions, including a swimming pool, more tennis courts, and an outdoor basketball court, with costs expected to exceed $100,000. Brackeen also worked on infrastructure improvements, securing an Army surplus truck for town use and investing in necessary upgrades. Additionally, he aimed to lower Elkmont’s fire insurance rating and sought funding for a model rural village near the town’s corporate limits, believing it would stimulate the local economy and attract 2,500 new residents. His leadership reflected a deep personal investment in Elkmont’s future, and he expressed great enthusiasm for his role, stating he was "getting a kick out of it" and enjoying the opportunity to make a difference.
In 1976, Elkmont became part of a planned rural development project under the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) and the Elk River Development Association. The project, known as Elkmont Village, aimed to balance rural living with modern infrastructure, including hiking and bike trails, underground utilities, and recreational spaces. The program emphasized wildlife conservation, energy-efficient building codes, and community planning, marking a shift from its traditional agricultural roots.
In May of 1978, Mayor Aaron Brackeen of Elkmont was honored as the "Citizen of the Year" by the Athens-Limestone County Chamber of Commerce. Under his leadership, Elkmont secured hundreds of thousands of dollars in federal funding, which led to significant improvements. His recognition as Citizen of the Year underscored his dedication and the tangible progress he had brought to the small town of 400 residents, ensuring its continued development.
In 1979, in a historic moment for the town, Elkmont’s City Council appointed Anna Holland as its first female mayor. At the age of 62, the retired teacher was selected to fill the remaining 14 months of the term left vacant by Aaron Brackeen, who had stepped down due to health concerns. Holland's appointment was significant not only because she was the first woman to hold the position, but also because it reflected a shift in local governance dynamics. With a population of around 450 residents, Elkmont was also participating in a Tennessee Valley Authority-funded experiment in planned community development, adding further responsibilities to the mayor’s role. Despite the honor of her appointment, Holland expressed a desire to balance her duties with her personal life. Since the mayoral position was unpaid, she hoped it would not require full-time attention. In an interview, she humorously remarked that she already had too many things to do at home, but she was willing to serve the town as needed.
In 1984, five years into her tenure as mayor, Anna Holland had taken on a demanding role in the community, despite her initial hopes that it would be a light commitment. At 68, she remained highly active in both civic and personal responsibilities. Her typical day began early, cooking breakfast for her husband and 95-year-old mother before attending a range of meetings and civic duties. She was involved in the Elkmont Beautification Board, city business matters, and homemakers' meetings, in addition to handling the administrative tasks required of a small-town mayor. Around noon, she would return home to prepare lunch, then head out again to handle town business, including banking matters and appointments. In the evenings, she often attended community gatherings, such as meetings related to a nearby rural village experiment. Despite her packed schedule, Holland remained committed to improving Elkmont, stating that she rarely felt tired. Her dedication to both her town and her family reflected the deep sense of responsibility that had long characterized Elkmont’s civic leaders.
In 1986, the historic site of the Civil War Union fort at the end of Ridge Road in Elkmont, known for its old earthwork walls, was preserved from future development as part of a home-building project. Newly elected Mayor Nancy Hall confirmed that efforts were being made to protect the site while allowing for some development around it. She noted that while Elkmont had hoped to utilize the area for a community project in the future, the landowner, Andrew Dubois, was committed to saving as much of the historic structure as possible. Despite being listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the site did not have strict preservation restrictions, meaning that its protection depended largely on private decisions. The decision to maintain the landmark was welcomed by local historians and residents who valued Elkmont’s past, and it demonstrated a growing recognition of the town’s historical significance.

## 21st Century

On January 2, 2000, a magnitude 2.7 earthquake struck Elkmont.
The town celebrates its strong sense of community through traditions like the annual goat and chicken stew, a festivity that draws over a thousand attendees each year, typically held in May. This event was initiated by the late Boss Hill (1922–2011), a lifelong Elkmont resident renowned for his unwavering support of local athletics and his pivotal role in developing Elkmont High School's sports facilities. Hill's dedication led to the school's football stadium being named in his honor in 1996. His legacy continues to influence Elkmont's communal activities, with the stew event standing as a testament to his enduring impact on fostering unity and local pride.
On March 23, 2011, a magnitude 2.2 earthquake struck Elkmont.

## Geography

Elkmont is located at 34°55′49″N 86°58′38″W﻿ / ﻿34.93028°N 86.97722°W﻿ / 34.93028; -86.97722 (34.930155, -86.977086). The town is concentrated around the intersection of County Road 49 (Upper Fort Hampton Road) and the old railroad line (now the Richard Martin Trail), several miles north of Athens, and a few miles south of the Alabama-Tennessee state line. Interstate 65 passes to the east of Elkmont, and the Elk River passes to the west. State Route 127 runs along a portion of Elkmont's western municipal boundary.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 1.6 square miles (4.1 km$^2$), all land.

## Demographics

As of the census of 2000, there were 470 people, 172 households, and 136 families residing in the town. The population density was 292.9 inhabitants per square mile (113.1/km$^2$). There were 189 housing units at an average density of 117.8 per square mile (45.5/km$^2$). The racial makeup of the town was 83.40% White, 15.11% Black or African American, 1.06% from other races, and 0.43% from two or more races. 1.28% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.
There were 172 households, out of which 40.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 64.0% were married couples living together, 9.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 20.9% were non-families. 19.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.73 and the average family size was 3.10.
In the town, the population was spread out, with 28.3% under the age of 18, 6.0% from 18 to 24, 32.1% from 25 to 44, 18.9% from 45 to 64, and 14.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 35 years. For every 100 females, there were 97.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 100.6 males.
The median income for a household in the town was $31,771, and the median income for a family was $35,000. Males had a median income of $33,750 versus $21,250 for females. The per capita income for the town was $17,654. About 15.9% of families and 20.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 34.9% of those under age 18 and 13.9% of those age 65 or over.

## Economy

Elkmont is home to the Belle Chevre artisanal goat cheese maker and a renowned artisanal creamery. It gained national recognition for its handcrafted goat cheese products and its connection to entrepreneur Tasia Malakasis. Originally founded before her involvement, the business saw significant growth when Malakasis, a former software executive, purchased it after training at the Culinary Institute of America. Under her leadership, Belle Chevre’s revenue tripled within two years, and she expanded operations to include a tasting room and cooking school. The creamery became a symbol of Elkmont’s agricultural and entrepreneurial spirit, drawing food enthusiasts and industry professionals alike. Malakasis documented her journey and passion for Southern cuisine in her books, including Southern Made Fresh, which was featured in events celebrating local and regional culinary traditions.
In 2014, EFI Automotive, an auto parts manufacturing company, announced a major expansion of its North American corporate headquarters in Elkmont. The company, which first established operations in the town in 2004, planned to invest $2.7 million in the project, creating 125 new jobs for the local workforce. Mayor Tracy Compton highlighted the importance of the town’s improved infrastructure, particularly a new water line and storage tank, in making the expansion possible. The growth of EFI Automotive marked a turning point for Elkmont, demonstrating its potential as a business-friendly community capable of attracting industrial investment. Officials hoped that the project would spur further economic development and provide long-term employment opportunities for residents.
Aviagen, a global poultry breeding company, operates multiple facilities in Elkmont, including a hatchery, feed mill, veterinary laboratory, and egg distribution centers. These facilities employ specialists, including hatchery and production staff, lab technicians, and other poultry professionals. The hatchery underwent significant renovations around 2007, transitioning from a multi-stage to a single-stage facility, which increased its capacity and modernized its operations.
The Richard Martin Trail passes through Elkmont along the old rail line.

## Education
### The Private School

Elkmont High School, a coeducational private institution in Elkmont, Alabama, opened in 1884, and advertised its opening for the 1887 school year (pictured), offering primary, intermediate, and high school education with tuition ranging from $1.00 to $3.50 per month, along with boarding and instrumental music lessons for an additional fee. D.J. & S.A. Moore were listed as "Principals." Two years later in 1892, Prof. J.W. Reed, A.M. was listed as Principal in The Limestone Democrat.
Elkmont High School ran an ad in the Limestone Democrat in January of 1892, The school emphasized health, morality, and enterprise, offering a curriculum that included mathematics, sciences, languages, music, and art. Faculty members included S. N. Fitzpatrick as president, Miss Mary Fitzpatrick in the primary department, and Miss Mattie Hill overseeing music and art. Tuition ranged from $1 to $4 per month, with additional fees for music and art instruction. The building had been recently repaired.
In the early 1900s, Elkmont High School was led by Professor Luna, who served as principal for several years. Under his leadership, the school gained recognition as one of the top institutions in the state of Alabama.
In 1905, W. R. Hightower was listed as Principal of Elkmont High School.

### The Public School

On September 28, 1912, the Limestone County High School in Elkmont, Alabama, prepared to open for its first term with a newly completed building. To fund seating for the school, local women organized an auction in which a cake was sold for $198, with Miss Nichols being voted the most popular young lady as part of the event. The school would be the county's first public school. Professor E.B. Baxter served as President of the school with his assistants, Professor Baker and Miss Lilian Barksdale. The original building was located on Evans Street where Elkmont High School is now. Willis B. Vaughn was instrumental in the establishment of the school.
Elkmont High School is currently in the Limestone County School District.

## Leadership

Since taking office in 1998, Mayor Tracy Compton has focused on economic growth and infrastructure improvements in Elkmont. His leadership has helped secure funding for road maintenance, park enhancements, and tourism development, leveraging grants to multiply local tax dollars. Under his administration, the town has seen a revitalization of industry and business, with more people now working within Elkmont’s limits than living there. Compton supports sustainable growth, ensuring that new development aligns with the town’s character while maintaining its southern charm and small-town appeal.

## Notable people

* Michael Boley, professional football linebacker
* The Delmore Brothers, country music singers and early stars of the Grand Ole Opry
* Billy Hogan, singer/songwriter
* Horace Elmo Nichols, chief justice of the Supreme Court of Georgia from 1975 to 1980
* John Carter, CEO of Noah Basketball