# Belle Mina, Alabama

Belle Mina is an unincorporated community in southeastern Limestone County, Alabama, United States. As of 2020 the population was estimated to be around 113 people. The town center is approximately one mile away from Mazda Toyota Manufacturing, U.S.A., Inc.
The city has many residences, a volunteer fire department, and a post office, and is home to the South Limestone Cotton Mill.

## 19th Century

Originally called Bibb’s Lane, the area was settled in the early 19th century and played a modest role in the regional economy. Bibb, who took office in 1820, developed the plantation as a working farm, and it later became the center of the small town that grew around it. Later the community of Belle Mina was named for the plantation of the same name that belonged to Governor Thomas Bibb, the second governor of the state of Alabama. It was originally called "Belle Manor", but because of southern pronunciation, the spelling changed over time. The name is derived from the French word "belle", meaning "beautiful". The African slaves, when saying Belle Manor in reference to the governor's house, pronounced it "Belle Mina" and the name stuck. The plantation was situated along the Southern Railroad, and there was a station at or near the plantation.
An event, called "Belle Mina in May," was an African-American cultural gathering that dates back to the early 1870s. According to memoirs, the event traditionally took place on the third Sunday in May, when large numbers of Black individuals would travel to Belle Mina for worship, singing, and socializing. The event started to decline in the late 1950s and early 1960s, but local churches—Jerusalem, Morning Star, New Heaven, and New Zion—decided to bring it back. In the past, the event was a major gathering, with people coming from cities like Chattanooga, Detroit, and Birmingham. The celebration was also tied to train arrivals, particularly the Southern Railroad, which would bring attendees from different places.
A post office was established in Belle Mina in 1878. The community served as the rail stop for Mooresville.

## The Depot

The Belle Mina depot, located in Limestone County, Alabama, has a rich history that may trace back to the Civil War era. The station was part of the Memphis & Charleston Railroad, a key transportation route during the 19th century, and was named after the nearby Belle Mina plantation owned by Thomas Bibb, Alabama’s second governor. Thomas Hubbard Hobbs, a local resident, recorded in his journal in 1865 the excitement and hope he felt upon seeing the railroad cars moving through the area, reflecting the significance of railroads in post-war recovery. Belle Mina was a small but vital stop along the route, helping to facilitate the movement of passengers and goods. After the war, the community grew modestly, with the establishment of a post office and a Methodist church in 1878. However, the depot itself remained an isolated landmark, and its exact construction date is uncertain, though it was likely built before 1882 when the Memphis & Charleston Railroad was taken over by the Southern Railway.
The depot was originally situated along the tracks but was later relocated about half a mile away. Despite its historical importance, it eventually became a private residence and fell into disrepair. By the late 20th century, the building was purchased with the hope of restoring it, though its future remained uncertain. Belle Mina itself was always a small community, known more for its plantation history than its railroad significance. Yet, for a brief period, the depot was an essential part of the regional transportation network. Over time, changes in the railroad industry and shifts in transportation methods led to the decline of small train stations like Belle Mina. However, remnants of its past still linger, and the station remains a point of interest for local historians and railroad enthusiasts.
One of the most notable events associated with the Belle Mina depot was a visit from Theodore Roosevelt in 1904 while he was campaigning for the presidency. His private train car stopped at the station, and a local resident, Bill Nothey, later recalled how Roosevelt greeted the crowd and spoke with the station master. This moment marked a brief but significant recognition of Belle Mina's role in American history, even if only as a small station along the rail line. Today, the depot stands as a relic of Alabama’s railroad past, its structure a testament to a bygone era when rail travel was the backbone of commerce and communication. Although it has faded into obscurity, its historical significance endures as a symbol of the community’s once-thriving connection to the broader world.

## 20th Century
### 1930s

In December 1933, Belle Mina was the site of a violent incident in which a man terrorized the small community, injuring multiple people with a knife. According to reports, a local banker from Belle Mina and a couple from Decatur were among the victims. The injuries were not life-threatening, and the attacker was subdued and turned over to relatives. While such violent events were rare in the quiet town, this particular case gained significant attention due to its shocking nature.
During the same period, Belle Mina was involved in broader agricultural discussions, particularly regarding cotton production. Farm leaders in the area were implementing federal policies aimed at reducing cotton acreage to stabilize prices. A new campaign was introduced to retire 15,000 acres of cotton, following the same structure as previous programs. Belle Mina, with its strong agricultural roots, was part of these efforts to support local farmers and improve economic conditions during the Great Depression.
The town was also affected by ongoing national discussions about tax reforms and financial restructuring. Changes to the taxation system were being considered, with new methods of tax collection being explored. Additionally, a revision of alcohol taxes was proposed, with part of the revenue set to be returned to the states. These financial adjustments were significant for rural communities like Belle Mina, which relied on both agricultural subsidies and local commerce to sustain their economy.
Belle Mina has been home to agricultural research efforts, particularly in cotton farming, through experiment stations that have studied different cotton varieties. The Jackson County Extension Agents conducted a three-year study at Belle Mina and Crossville to determine the most efficient cotton varieties based on yield, lint percentage, and the number of bolls required to produce a pound of cotton. Their studies aimed to help local farmers choose the best variety for their planting needs. They were published in February of 1949 in a Scottsboro paper.
Several cotton varieties were tested at Belle Mina, including White Gold, Miller 610, Stoneville 2B, Stonewilt, Empire, Coker 100 Wilt, and Deltapine 15. The study measured factors such as gin turnout percentage, staple length, and boll count per pound. For example, White Gold produced 508 pounds per acre with a 38% lint turnout, while Miller 610 produced 458 pounds with a 39.8% turnout. These figures were compared with results from Crossville to analyze the performance of each variety under different conditions.
The research conducted at Belle Mina provided valuable insights for farmers in Alabama, helping them select cotton varieties that would yield higher outputs and withstand environmental challenges such as soil conditions and plant diseases. Recommendations from these studies suggested that in non-wilt-infested land, most varieties were viable, while in areas with significant wilt issues, Coker 100 Wilt or Stone Wilt were the best options. These findings reinforced Belle Mina's role as an important site for agricultural experimentation and improvement in the region.

### 1940s

On March 1, 1945, an article in The Alexander City Outlook highlighted the Belle Mina Experiment Station in North Alabama as an example of successful soil conservation and land rehabilitation. The report emphasized the transformation of land at Belle Mina, which had previously been classified as wasteland due to poor soil conditions and erosion. Through the implementation of advanced soil management techniques, including crop rotation, contour plowing, and pasture improvement, the station had demonstrated how degraded farmland could be restored to productive agricultural use.
The article compared the Belle Mina project to similar efforts in Tallapoosa County, encouraging local farmers to adopt scientific farming methods to improve crop yields and soil fertility. The success of Belle Mina was presented as evidence that poor soil conditions could be reversed, serving as a model for sustainable agriculture in Alabama. The experiment station continued to serve as a research and demonstration site, helping farmers in the region implement best practices for soil conservation and improved land use.

### 1950s

Belle Mina was the site of an important meeting concerning drought relief efforts in the Tennessee Valley in 1954. Agricultural leaders, farmers, and representatives from various agencies gathered to discuss strategies for combating drought and improving irrigation in the region. The meeting focused on methods to ensure better water management and sustain agricultural productivity during dry seasons. Congressman Jones was among those who addressed the gathering, emphasizing the need for government support in planning and implementing long-term drought mitigation strategies.
As part of Alabama’s agricultural landscape, Belle Mina played a role in shaping regional farming policies, particularly concerning irrigation and soil conservation. During the 1954 meeting, farmers and officials discussed how to improve water retention in farmland, increase the efficiency of irrigation systems, and secure federal assistance for drought relief programs. The discussions reflected Belle Mina’s ongoing importance as a hub for agricultural experimentation and policy development in Alabama.
The Belle Mina drought meeting was not just a policy discussion but also an example of community-driven efforts to address environmental challenges. Farmers, local leaders, and agricultural specialists collaborated to develop concrete recommendations for dealing with drought conditions, showing the active participation of Belle Mina’s agricultural community in shaping the future of farming in the region. The town’s involvement in these discussions highlighted its significance in Alabama’s broader agricultural initiatives.
On June 18, 1954, an article in The Decatur Daily highlighted significant developments at the Belle Mina Experiment Station, an agricultural research facility in Belle Mina, Alabama. The event centered around the retirement of Fred Stewart, the longtime superintendent of the station, and the appointment of his successor, John Boseck.
Fred Stewart had dedicated decades to agricultural research and development at Belle Mina. He was honored in a ceremony attended by friends, colleagues, and agricultural leaders from across Alabama. The attendees included members of Stewart’s family, agricultural scientists, and prominent figures from Auburn University and other agricultural institutions. Many speakers praised his contributions to agricultural research and the advancement of farming techniques in the region. It was noted that under his leadership, Belle Mina became a hub for innovation in soil fertility, pasture management, and crop rotation, particularly focusing on sericea lespedeza and crimson clover as essential for soil enrichment.
During the ceremony, Stewart was presented with a boat loaded with fishing equipment, including worms, live minnows, and casting rods, reflecting his well-known passion for fishing. Several speakers, including Dr. Ralph Draughon, president of Auburn University, emphasized the lasting impact of Stewart’s work, particularly in education, research, and agricultural progress. Auburn University had played a crucial role in managing the Belle Mina Experiment Station, and Stewart’s tenure was recognized as a time of significant growth and scientific contributions to the farming community.
John Boseck, an agricultural expert specializing in soil improvement and pasture fertility, was appointed as Stewart’s successor. Dr. E.V. Smith, dean of Auburn’s School of Agriculture, formally announced the appointment, expressing confidence that Boseck would continue advancing the station’s mission.
Beyond the recognition of Stewart’s career, the article also emphasized the economic and scientific importance of Belle Mina in the mid-20th century. The station was pivotal in training farmers, experimenting with new crops, and improving livestock management. Several farmers and agricultural experts spoke about how Stewart’s work had elevated agricultural standards in the Tennessee Valley, helping to modernize farming methods and boost productivity.
The event drew hundreds of attendees, reflecting the widespread appreciation for Stewart’s contributions. Colleagues, former students, and farmers shared personal stories of how Stewart had assisted them in solving agricultural challenges. One notable speech came from Claude Buchanan of Huntsville, who recounted the thousands of farmers Stewart had helped by improving their crop planning and farm operations. Another speaker, E.P. Garrett, a local leader, described Stewart as a pillar of the community whose innovations had raised the standard of living for farmers in the region.
The Belle Mina Experiment Station played a crucial role in shaping Alabama’s agricultural landscape, and the 1954 event marked a transition from one era of leadership to another. The station remained a vital research facility, supporting advancements in soil conservation, livestock nutrition, and sustainable farming techniques, continuing the legacy built by Fred Stewart.
In March 1956, Belle Mina residents played a crucial role in apprehending two teenage suspects accused of planning a series of break-ins at local businesses. Lile Hough, Gilbert Penley, and Eugene Stewart noticed suspicious activity and took action, with Hough detaining the youths at the Belle Mina Grocery by holding them at shotgun point until law enforcement arrived. The Limestone County Sheriff’s Department took the suspects, aged 16 and 17, into custody for investigation, though they were uncharged as of the following morning. Multiple businesses, including the S. W. Kay grocery store, Stewart’s Service Station, and Swinea and Swanner Grocery, were believed to have been targeted.
On May 1, 1957, John Edward Blizzard, a 30-year-old employee at the Belle Mina Experiment Station, was found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound on Mooresville Road in southeastern Limestone County. His body was discovered face down near his car by Delbert Cottles, J.W. Martin, and Louis Emerson, all from Madison. Investigators determined that Blizzard had left home around 12:15 p.m., stating he was going to a service station to get gasoline. Blizzard’s wife had reportedly been in poor health for some time. He left behind three children—two daughters and an autistic son who required significant support. Limestone County Coroner Buddy Evans ruled the death a suicide. Funeral services were held at Oakland Community Baptist Church, with burial in Parker Cemetery under the direction of McConnell’s Service Funeral Home. Blizzard is survived by his widow, Mammie Faye Blizzard, along with his children, mother, siblings, and half-siblings. His pallbearers were fellow employees from the Belle Mina Experiment Station, where he worked.
On Saturday, December 19, 1959, a 66-year-old woman in Belle Mina was critically burned after escaping a fire that engulfed her two-room log house. She struggled from her bed to flee the flames, and a local resident, Earl Williams, helped rescue her as she made her way to the front door. Her four-year-old grandchild, who was also in the house, managed to escape safely from the front porch. The woman, who had been bedridden, was taken to Decatur General Hospital for initial treatment before being transferred to Athens-Limestone Hospital, where she was listed in critical condition but was reported to be "holding her own." Witnesses described that her clothes were on fire when she was pulled from the house. The cause of the fire had not been officially determined, but authorities suspected that it may have started from a flue. The blaze was first noticed at approximately 11 a.m., and a crowd of neighbors gathered as Williams rescued the woman.

### 1960s

On Saturday, July 23, 1960, a 30-year-old man named Clay S. Brown was shot in the chest near Belle Mina Negro School. Authorities arrested Bertha Harney, a 21-year-old woman, in connection with the incident. Brown was taken to Decatur General Hospital, where he underwent surgery for a gunshot wound below the heart from a .38 caliber revolver. He was reported to be in stable condition following the surgery.
According to Limestone County Sheriff Clyde Ennis, Harney claimed that Brown approached her with a knife, prompting her to pull a pistol and fire. She stated that the gun misfired on the first attempt before discharging on the second pull of the trigger. However, witnesses provided a conflicting account, telling authorities that there was no reason for the shooting. On the way to the hospital, Brown’s mother, who accompanied him in the ambulance, reported that Harney said they were just playing.
Following the shooting, Brown managed to walk to a porch before collapsing. The shooting occurred in an area known as “Pension Row”, and ambulance workers found him lying in a roadway near the school. Harney was expected to face charges of assault with intent to murder as the investigation continued.
On May 2, 1963, the Tennessee Valley Substation in Belle Mina, Alabama, hosted a dedication ceremony for a new auditorium named in honor of the late Fred Stewart, the station’s first superintendent. The event was attended by 200 farmers, agricultural officials, and members of the Stewart family, including his widow, children, and other relatives.
The ceremony featured remarks from state legislators, agricultural representatives, and Auburn University officials, who emphasized Stewart’s lasting influence on farming in North Alabama. R.M. Reaves, assistant to the Extension director, described Stewart as the “father of improved agriculture in the Valley”, highlighting his pioneering work in crop yields, livestock enterprises, and pasture development. It was noted that Stewart’s research on alfalfa, improved pastures, fertilizers, and crop varieties had significantly contributed to the region’s agricultural advancements.
During the dedication, Dr. Ralph Draughon, president of Auburn University, formally accepted the Fred Stewart Auditorium on behalf of the university. Speakers also reflected on the historical development of the substation, which was established in 1927 to study fertilizer application, soil fertility, and adaptation of crops to North Alabama’s climate. Since then, Belle Mina had evolved in response to economic challenges, mechanization, and shifts in agricultural practices, serving as a key research site within Auburn University’s Experiment Station System.
The article emphasized the station’s role in addressing modern farming challenges, including disease and insect control, as well as the need for ongoing scientific research to keep up with the changing landscape of crop production and livestock management. The Tennessee Valley Substation continued to function as a vital resource, providing updated agricultural data and innovative farming techniques to help farmers adapt to the evolving demands of the industry.

### 1970s

On June 19, 1973, the Tennessee Valley Experiment Station in Belle Mina, Alabama, hosted a short course aimed at training cotton scouters. The program was organized by the Cooperative Extension Service of Auburn University and focused on identifying and managing insect infestations in cotton crops. The course enrolled 106 participants from 11 North Alabama counties, including agricultural experts, farmers, and cotton scout supervisors. The training emphasized field observation techniques, pest identification, and effective control strategies to protect cotton yields. The event highlighted the station's ongoing role in agricultural education and research, supporting farmers in improving crop management practices.
On April 13, 1978, an article in The Jackson County Advertiser detailed agricultural activities at the Belle Mina Experiment Station, focusing on corn production and planting conditions for the upcoming growing season. It reported that corn was planted on April 15 at Belle Mina and Crossville, with nitrogen application rates of 130 pounds per acre at Belle Mina and 200 pounds per acre at Crossville. The row width at Belle Mina was 42 inches, while Crossville had 36-inch rows. The plant population at Belle Mina averaged 19,000 plants per acre, and each variety was initially planted thick before being thinned according to seed company recommendations.
The article provided guidance on corn variety selection for 1978, recommending early to mid-season yellow corn varieties, including McCurdy 6714, Coker 16, Funks G4810, McNair X300, DeKalb XL80, and McNair S338. For full-season varieties maturing in 105 to 110 days, the recommendations included Pioneer 3147, Funks G4864, and Coker 56, with Pioneer 511A and Funks G795W-1 as the only recommended white corn varieties.
The report also emphasized proper soil preparation and fertilization techniques, advising farmers to monitor soil moisture levels before working the land to prevent damaging soil structure. Additionally, the article highlighted cotton planting dates, suggesting April 10-25 as the optimal window for North Alabama farmers. It noted that by the end of this period, most cotton growers in the region would have completed planting, though some late planting would occur in northern Madison County.
The Belle Mina Experiment Station played a vital role in testing and demonstrating agricultural best practices, helping local farmers optimize crop selection, planting methods, and fertilization strategies for improved yields in North Alabama.

## 21st Century

On October 11, 2013, a fire destroyed the historic Woodside plantation home in Belle Mina, Alabama. Woodside, built in 1860–61 as a wedding gift for the daughter of Alabama's second governor, Thomas Bibb, was located half a mile from the main Belle Mina plantation house. The main Belle Mina house, completed in 1826, is a two-story brick structure featuring a monumental Tuscan hexastyle portico and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
On March 15, 2024, a Limestone County judge extended the public comment period for the Alabama Department of Environmental Management's (ADEM) consideration of a proposed quarry in Belle Mina. This decision allows residents and stakeholders additional time to express concerns or support for the project, ensuring that community input is thoroughly considered before any final determinations are made.
On April 18, 2024, an Auburn University study revealed that a proposed limestone quarry in Belle Mina, Alabama, could negatively impact the operations of a nearby research center. The study highlighted concerns about potential groundwater contamination and disruptions to agricultural research activities, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of environmental and operational factors before proceeding with the quarry development.
On April 30, 2024, Southern Science published an article detailing the concerns of Belle Mina residents regarding a proposed limestone quarry adjacent to their community. The apprehension began in late 2023 when Grayson Carter & Son Contracting and Stoned, LLC applied for permits to establish the quarry. Residents fear that the quarry's proximity—less than a hundred feet from some homes—could lead to environmental degradation, health risks from dust and noise, potential sinkholes, and increased flooding due to altered water runoff patterns. The community has actively opposed the project, citing threats to their way of life and the local ecosystem.