history

New Police Chief makes history in the city of Marion

From the West Alabama Newsroom– The city of Marion has a new history making police chief — to lead its police department. Former Pine Hill Police Chief Nikisha Gailes took over as Marion’s top cop last week after the city’s former chief Kendrick Howell — left to become the chief of Police in Eutaw. Gailes brings over thirty years of…

National non-profit acquires Selma landmark to preserve history

From the West Alabama Newsroom– The Conservation Fund announced the acquisition of a historical landmark in downtown Selma to help preserve it’s history. The Edistone Hotel was in serious danger of caving in or being demolished after decades of neglect. Built in 1855, the 170 year old building has a long past that includes Pre-Civil War — Post-Civil War —…

Dallas Co. community commemorates Lafayette’s Tour bicentennial

From the West Alabama Newsroom– The Dallas County community is commemorating another part of its rich history this weekend. “He was an American hero but he just happened to be from France.” As a general in the Revolutionary War, 19 year old Lafayette helped the United States break free of British control. In 1825, Lafayette toured the U.S. — making…

England makes history as new 17th Judicial Circuit District Attorney

From the West Alabama Newsroom– Governor Kay Ivey made a history-making appointment for district attorney of the 17th Judicial Circuit — representing Marengo — Greene — and Sumter counties. Demopolis native Rachel England is now the youngest serving DA — as well as the youngest female DA ever — in the state of Alabama. Governor Ivey appointed England to fulfil…

Demopolis hosts 8th Annual Rooster Day festival Saturday

From the West Alabama Newsroom– The city of Demopolis celebrates Rooster Day on Saturday. The 8th annual event showcases the city’s downtown — and it also commemorates a part of the city’s history. Company’s coming to Demopolis this weekend — and folks there are hard at work — getting things ready. Cindy Parker works for the city’s Horticulture Department. “This…

First Full Day of Jubilee Centers on Education & Youth

From West Alabama Newsroom– The annual Bridge Crossing Jubilee is now in full swing in Selma. And the first full day of the event featured a full slate of events. Friday featured nearly a dozen different activities — with most centered around education — and youth. Selma High School hosted the annual Children’s Sojourn. And students at Tipton-Durant Middle School…

Highway Dedicated to First Black Sheriff in the South, Macon Co.

History was honored in Tuskegee on Thursday, as the new Lucius D. Amerson highway was unveiled. Amerson was the first black elected sheriff in the south after reconstruction, in Macon county. With many friends, county officials, and family of Amerson – including son Anthony Amerson – the dedication ceremony was held in Booker T. Washington high school due to inclement…