huntsville alabama state park cabins
Nestled in the serene landscapes of Alabama, the cabins at Huntsville State Park offer an idyllic retreat for travelers seeking…
Alabama weird city names
Introduction
When it comes to exploring the depths of American culture and history, Alabama is a treasure trove. Yet, the state offers more than just Civil Rights monuments and breathtaking landscapes; it’s also home to places with peculiar characteristics and even weirder names. This article delves into the cultural, historical, and tourist spots that make you scratch your head and wonder, “Did they name it that?” Here, we will tour some of the “weird Alabama town names” and places that give the Heart of Dixie its unique character.
- Slapout
The first stop on our journey is the peculiarly named Slapout, located in Elmore County. Don’t let the name deceive you; there’s a story behind it. The name reportedly came from the local storekeeper who would often say he was “slapped out” of whatever customers were asking for. While the town may not be a tourist magnet, it is a reflection of the charming quirks found in rural Alabama culture.
- Burnt Corn
Yes, you heard that right. Burnt Corn is a community that has been around since the early 19th century. The name is believed to have originated from fields of corn that were burned to clear land for farming. Today, it serves as a historical site where one can ponder the agricultural traditions of the South and the rich tapestry of names that only Alabama can offer.
- Frog Eye
Our next weird Alabama town name contender is Frog Eye. Located in Tallapoosa County, Frog Eye got its name from a local saloon that had a frog painted on its sign. Locals started calling the establishment “Frog Eye,” and eventually, the name stuck to the community itself. Besides its whimsical name, the area offers a cozy atmosphere of southern rural life.
- Lick Skillet
Another strange yet intriguing place is Lick Skillet, a name that vividly conjures up images of hearty Southern cooking. Located in Lauderdale County, the story goes that the town’s early settlers would “lick the skillet” clean, a testament to the delicious fare. Even if it’s not on the map for Michelin-starred restaurants, Lick Skillet has an old-world charm that captures the essence of the South.
- Puzzleville
Weird Alabama town names wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Puzzleville. Situated in Chambers County, the name alone piques one’s curiosity. While its origins are not completely clear, what’s certain is that Puzzleville is a fitting metaphor for the delightful confusion that sometimes accompanies a journey through Alabama’s varied locales.
- Spectre
Though not a real town, Spectre is a fictional place built as a movie set for Tim Burton’s film “Big Fish.” Located on Jackson Lake Island near Millbrook, the abandoned movie set has become a tourist attraction. With its peculiar aesthetic of eerie charm, Spectre gives you a feeling of walking into a dream—making it a must-visit for film buffs and adventurers alike.
- Gravity Hill
Finally, let’s talk about something that defies logic. Gravity Hill in Sylacauga is a road where, when you stop your car and put it in neutral, it seems to roll uphill. It’s an optical illusion, but the experience is real enough to have attracted countless tourists intrigued by the laws of physics seemingly gone haywire.
- Shorter
Don’t let the name “Shorter” fool you into thinking there’s less to see here. Located in Macon County, the name might be succinct, but the area itself is brimming with Southern charm and history. While the origins of its name are not entirely clear, Shorter offers a tranquil setting for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of bigger cities.
- Normal
It’s anything but “Normal” in this town! This unique name belongs to an area in Huntsville primarily known for Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University. The university was initially called the “State Normal and Industrial School of Huntsville,” which is how the town got its name. Visitors can experience a slice of Alabama’s educational history here, making it an unusual yet enriching visit.
- Screamer
Located in Henry County, the origin of the name “Screamer” is still a topic of local debate. Regardless of how it got its name, the area is a curious blend of old and new, with some areas feeling like they’ve been untouched by time. It’s not a bustling tourist spot, but its strange name and history make it worth mentioning.
- Warrior
Named after the Warrior River, which was in turn named for the Creek Native American warriors who once inhabited the area, this town offers a mix of history and natural beauty. The name might suggest a fierce or intimidating place, but you’ll find it’s quite the opposite with its welcoming residents and scenic views.
- Point Clear
This area may have a transparent name, but its history is anything but. Situated along Mobile Bay, Point Clear became a refuge for wealthy families from Mobile and New Orleans looking to escape yellow fever epidemics in the 19th century. Today, it’s a luxurious tourist spot known for the Grand Hotel, a historic resort that has been a staple in the area since 1847.
- Reeltown
Located in Tallapoosa County, Reeltown might sound like a movie buff’s paradise, but it’s named after a local family with the surname Reel. The area doesn’t have any particular focus on cinematography, but it’s another one of those unique Alabama names that add character to the state.
Conclusion
Alabama offers more than just the stereotypes of Southern hospitality and Civil Rights history. It’s a state filled with peculiar places that range from strange natural phenomena to communities with names that make you chuckle. These weird Alabama town names and spots not only contribute to the state’s character but also serve as a testament to the unique blend of history, folklore, and modern-day quirks that Alabama has to offer. So, if you’re tired of the usual tourist spots and are looking to spice up your next travel itinerary, consider heading down South to Alabama. After all, how many people can say they’ve been to Slapout or Lick Skillet? Come for the history, stay for the oddities—that’s the Alabama way.
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