Indian Place Names in Alabama

By William A. Read

Learn the Secrets of Alabama's Fascinating Place Names

In Place Names in Alabama, readers embark on a captivating journey through the linguistic and cultural heritage embedded in the state's geography. This masterful reference work, compiled by a renowned linguist and historian, unveils the origins and meanings of hundreds of towns, rivers, creeks, and landmarks--many rooted in Native American languages, colonial history, and local folklore. From the bustling streets of Tuscaloosa, whose name means "Black Warrior," to Mobile, rooted in the name of the indigenous Maubila people, this book reveals the deep cultural and linguistic layers that shape Alabama's identity. Other fascinating examples are Talladega, which traces its name to a Muscogee word meaning "border town" and Opelika, derived from Creek for "large swamp."

Indian Place Names in Alabama is:

Scholarly yet accessible: Ideal for historians, educators, genealogists, and curious readers.

Richly annotated: Includes historical maps, archival citations, and linguistic insights.

Cultural depth: Highlights Indigenous, French, Spanish, and English influences.

Enduring value: A definitive resource for understanding Alabama's identity through its place names.

Whether you're tracing ancestral roots, exploring regional history, or simply intrigued by the names on a map, Indian Place Names in Alabama offers a treasure trove of discovery.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 081730231X
• ISBN13: 9780817302313
• Release Date: October 1984
• Publisher: University Alabama Press
• Length: 128 Pages
• Weight: 0.44 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 6.0" x 9.0"