Columbiana, Alabama

Coker, Alabama

Weather: low 70 degrees, high 81 degrees, mostly cloudy skies, rain showers

After breakfast this morning, we decided to take a little road trip so we could scratch our wanderlust. It was important to us that we go somewhere we had not been, and be able to get home at a decent time. Looking at the trusty WalMart Atlas, the destination chosen was Columbiana. This little town met our requirements, and had gotten our attention because it seems like every time the weather is bad, the TV weather people keep mentioning the name of the town. I know, that's a lame excuse for going somewhere, but it worked for us. After all, we don't need much of an excuse to go exploring.

We drove over to Centreville and took Alabama 25 to the north. The route chosen worked out great because there was very little traffic, the countryside was beautiful, and we passed through some nice little towns. Typical of those towns was Columbiana, the county seat of Shelby County. The first picture is of their courthouse, which was completed in 1905. It would have been nice to get some pictures of the inside, especially the marble floors. However, the building was closed for the holiday.

Columbiana was originally named Columbia. The name was changed to Columbiana by the state legislature in 1832, and it was incorporated in 1837. During the Civil War, a foundry was operated for the Confederacy. The foundry was burned in 1865. It appears to be a prosperous little town, but most of the people work in Birmingham.

The downtown area is typical of many small towns, with small stores and offices clustered around the courthouse. In addition to courthouses, train depots, and lighthouses, I'm always looking for interesting wall murals to take pictures of. Notice the price of Coca Cola at five cents.

Here's another wall mural advertising coveralls. Do many people wear these? I've never had the yen to do that.

By the time we had completed our little excursion, our wanderlust had been scratched a little. At least for a day or two. After resting, we had hot dogs with corn on the cob. Then, TV with catching up with the soap opera that has become Jon & Kate Plus 8. Why is it that people want the attention, then when they get it, they find it intrudes on their privacy? Their fantasy suddenly became their reality. Can't have it both ways.

More later, be safe.

Today's Town - Columbiana, Alabama: Embracing The Future, While Preserving The Past

Not all who wander are lost.