A County Older Than the State-Henry County

 

Created in 1819 by Alabama Territorial Legislature. Named for Patrick Henry of Virginia, colonial statesman and orator: "Give me liberty or give me death." This area ceded by Creek Indian Nation in 1814 under Treaty of Ft. Jackson. Had been part of Lower Creek Confederacy. Abbeville made county seat in 1833. Abbe an Indian name of nearby creek. 
[Before 1965: Henry Co. Courthouse, Abbeville 36.5713 N 85.2501 W]

 

Henry County Training School, Established 1914

 

Founded by Laura L. Ward. Building designed and constructed by Jim McCauley on land given by Glass Maybin. Classes began Sept., 1917. Principals who served school were: J. H. Jackson, W. R. Rosser, Felix Blackwood, Sr., and William B. Ward, Sr. First teachers were: Laura L. Ward, Bertha Matthews and Mattie Belle. 

School operated for 53 years until closed June 30, 1970. During this time it served as principal educational center for black citizens of Henry County, graduating a total of 1297 students.
[Co. Rd. 25 off Ala. Hwy 10 east of Abbeville 31.5782 N 85.3167 W]