A Brief History of Smiths Station, Alabama
Smiths Station, one of the most thriving and fastest growing communities in Lee County, was settled in 1826. In 1845 the Central of Georgia Railway was built through the community from Columbus, GA to Opelika, Alabama.
The depot was named for Mr. Broadus Smith, a prominent early settler who lived near by.
When the first school was built is not exactly known, however, we do know that a one-room wooden structure was located one half mile west of the depot prior to 1913. A few years after the establishment of the school, Dr. O.D. Smith, whose relationship to Broadus Smith is unknown, moved to the community from the Green Mountain section of Vermont. Dr. Smith served as a teacher and Principal (lead teacher) at the school in Smiths Station.
In 1873, Dr. Smith was elected Professor of Mathematics at Auburn College, later to become Auburn Polytechnical Institute, then finally Auburn University.
Lee County’s newest city was incorporated in June 22, 2001, and is located on Highway 280 / 431 between Opelika and Phenix City.
Located only a short distance by four lane highways from Atlanta, Columbus, and Montgomery, it brings together some 250+ (and growing) subdivisions in a southern country lifestyle enjoyed by young and old alike.
A sports complex was construction on a 78-acre site designed to provide family recreation throughout the year. Also to be located at the park is a Senior Citizens Center.
*Article written by Richard A. Cooley. Taken from a “Program of the Smiths Station School”. A 1940 Workshop prepared by Mr. J.B. Page at Alabama Polytechnic Institute (later to become Auburn University). Mr. Page later served as Principal of Smiths Station High School for over 40 years and retired in 1972.
