A place with a primarily agricultural heritage, Dothan, Alabama is a vibrant city, with a bright future. Growth spurts came slow for Dothan as it originally remained tethered to its rural roots. However, industry has taken hold in Dothan, with health care, social, and education services making inroads professionally. The city, a boon to the area, boasts a storied history and a cornucopia of current events all its own. Here’s a look at some things you didn’t know about Dothan, Alabama!
Like its History, its Soil is Rich
Kicking off our list of things you didn’t know about Dothan, Alabama is that the city’s surrounding soil held value. Dothan’s agricultural roots stemmed from the surrounding areas’ rich soil. This helped to earn the city’s accolade as a hub for industry and commerce in Alabama’s Wiregrass region. Its fertile soil sowed the seeds of its profitable agricultural industry.
The City Went through a Name Change as it Grew
Following the advent of numerous lumber stores to Dothan, the city grew in population. New settlers came to the area in search of work. Dothan residents soon appealed to the federal government to establish a post office. Dothan, during this time, was actually known as Poplar Head. However, it was soon realized that another Alabama town carried the same name. A local preacher suggested Dothan, inspired by a small village mentioned in The Bible. The name was approved—and has stuck ever since.
It Holds Accolades through its Landmarks
There are a string of places and landmarks that call Dothan home—and have earned the city a modest reputation. Dothan boasts Landmark Park, which houses Alabama’s official agricultural museum. The city is also home to the Cherry Street AME Church—the widely-recognized “Mother Church” of the African Methodist Episcopal denomination in Alabama. Dothan is also known for having the world’s “smallest city block.”
Dothan has a Relatively Progressive Past
Did you know? Dothan became the first municipality in the state to integrate its police force. Other larger cities, such as Mobile and Montgomery, would not for a long time to come.
The City has a Lively Education System
Rounding off our list of things you didn’t know about Dothan, Alabama is the city’s varied educational offerings. There are 10 elementary schools, four middle schools, and two high schools in Dothan. Two college campuses also call the city home: Wallace Community College and Troy University–Dothan Campus.
Summary
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Not only do we serve our residents through providing them a place they can call home: we provide a one-stop hub for things happening in and around Dothan. Continue following our blog to learn more about upcoming events, local offerings, and other insights!