Words by Jenny Lynn Davis | Images by Ryan McGill
On Tuesday, December 3, the Walker County Commission hosted a Bicentennial Brunch, celebrating 200 years of history, progress, and community. The event’s theme, “Honoring Our Past, Celebrating Our Present, Building Our Future,” highlighted the county’s rich heritage and aspirations for the future.
The Bicentennial Brunch concluded the year-long celebration initiated by the Commission. A proclamation passed in November 2023 set the stage for commemorating the county’s bicentennial period, which officially began on December 26, 2023—200 years after Walker County’s establishment by the Alabama Legislature.
The event featured a distinguished lineup of speakers, including Walker County Commission Chairman Steve Miller, Representatives Tim Wadsworth and Matt Woods, Senator Greg Reed, and Alabama Secretary of State Wes Allen.
“It’s an honor to be standing before you on this historic occasion to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the founding of our county. It’s hard to believe that in today’s fast-paced world, anything could last 200 years, yet here we are, marking 200 years of Walker County,” said Miller.
Miller highlighted the county’s natural beauty, close-knit communities, and values of faith, family, hard work, and friendship that define its residents.
Wadsworth emphasized the contributions of past generations, honoring notable individuals from his district, such as longtime U.S. Congressman Tom Bevill and William Boshell, the builder of Boshell Mill. He also recognized Townley residents who transformed the former Townley School into a community center that now houses the Walker County Sports Hall of Fame, as well as the U.S. veterans who have called Walker County home.
Woods reflected on the county’s evolution: “Over the last 200 years, we’ve seen the county transform from an agricultural hub growing corn and wheat to a more industrialized economy driven by coal mining and timber. Walker County has always provided a means to sustain its people, which is fantastic.”
Woods also encouraged attendees to consider the future: “The challenge we all face is to consider what comes next. The things we do today, while sometimes hard and uncertain, will make a difference in the lives of Walker Countians for generations to come.”
Reed praised the county’s collaborative spirit: “We have had serious success in Walker County during my tenure in the Alabama Senate. Many things have changed, but our people have remained incredibly resilient. That resilience, paired with the ability to work together on collective goals, will continue to be key to Walker County’s success.”
As he prepares to transition to his new role as Governor Kay Ivey’s Special Advisor to Workforce Development, Reed also reflected on his time in the Senate and the county’s progress in education, business, and economic development.
Alabama Secretary of State Wes Allen shared his admiration for the community: “I love coming to this community because it’s evident how you all work together to push forward and do great things for your people. Alabama is the greatest state in the country because of communities like this, where people are proud of their families, history, and heritage.”
In recognition of their efforts in organizing the event, Chairman Miller thanked County Administrator Amy Frederickson and Cordova Economic Development Director Renee Sides. Attendees enjoyed a catered brunch provided by Five Loaves Bakery and Café, and artwork by local artist Kate Gurganus was presented to speakers and municipal leaders as a token of appreciation.
As Walker County reflects on two centuries of history, the Bicentennial Brunch served as a reminder of its enduring legacy and the community’s commitment to shaping a brighter future for generations to come. WL
