Tallapoosa County, Alabama, established in 1832, is steeped in history that reflects the cultural and economic evolution of the region. Named after the Tallapoosa River, which flows through the county, the area was originally inhabited by the Creek Nation before being settled by European Americans following the Creek War of 1813-1814 and the subsequent Treaty of Fort Jackson. The arrival of settlers brought rapid development, with agriculture, particularly cotton farming, becoming the economic backbone of the county.
During the Civil War, Tallapoosa County, like much of the South, was deeply impacted, contributing soldiers to the Confederate Army and experiencing the broader hardships of the era. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the county saw a diversification of its economy, including the rise of textile mills and other industries, which spurred growth in towns like Dadeville, the county seat, and Alexander City.
The creation of Lake Martin in the 1920s, one of the largest man-made lakes in the United States, further transformed the county, enhancing its appeal as a recreational and tourist destination. Today, Tallapoosa County is known for its natural beauty, rich history, and a community that honors its past while looking toward the future.