DISCOVERY
Learn Your Way Around Clay County
A slice of americanA IN EAST ALABAMA
In addition to its scenic charm, Lineville boasts a safe and family-friendly environment, making it an ideal place to raise children or enjoy retirement. Local schools are supported by engaged residents, and small businesses thrive thanks to community involvement. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, fishing, and camping, all just minutes from their doorstep.
For those who value a connection to nature, a supportive community, and a simpler way of living, Lineville stands out as a hidden gem in Alabama worth calling home.
Clay County and its history
Heritage and Representation
History and Local Identity
Clay County, Alabama, was established on December 7, 1866, from portions of Randolph and Talladega counties. Named after the prominent statesman Henry Clay, the county seat, Ashland, was named after his estate in Lexington, Kentucky. The county’s early settlers were primarily poor farmers, and during the 1880s, Clay County became known as “the cradle of Alabama populism.” The county’s economy shifted from agriculture to mining and manufacturing in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Notable residents include Supreme Court Justice Hugo L. Black, Alabama Governor Bob Riley, and U.S. Navy astronaut Commander Joe Edwards, Jr.
Historical landmarks in the county include the Clay County Courthouse in Ashland, built in 1906 in the Classical Revival style, and the Henry D. Clayton House in Clayton, a National Historic Landmark. The county is also home to the Historical Museum of Clay County, which houses exhibits relating to its history. The Clay Historical Society, founded in 2005, works to preserve and promote the county’s historical, cultural, and environmental legacies.
Local Government and Services
Clay County is governed by a five-member Board of Commissioners, with meetings held on the second Monday of each month at the Courthouse Annex in Ashland. The county provides various public services, including trash collection through Republic Services, water and sewer services via Birmingham Water Works, and electricity through Alabama Power Company. The Center Point Fire Department serves the county for fire protection.
Voting in Clay County is managed by the Alabama Secretary of State, and residents can register to vote through their office.
For local government inquiries, residents can contact the Clay County Commission at 256-354-7888.
City Hall in Ashland is located at 82 Court Square, Ashland, AL 36251, and can be reached at 256-354-2121.
our municipalities
Schools and Education
Clay County, Alabama, offers public education through Lineville Elementary (K–5) and Central High School (6–12), both managed by the Clay County School District. Enrollment is based on residential zoning, ensuring county-wide access. While local private school options are limited, families seeking alternatives can explore schools in nearby areas like Marianna, Florida, which offer faith-based and classical education programs.
The Clay County Public Library supports lifelong learning with access to books, digital media, internet services, and educational programs for all ages. Additionally, adults can benefit from free GED preparation and adult education classes provided by the district, focusing on literacy, math, and job-readiness skills.
Safety and Emergency Services
Lineville, Alabama offers essential safety and emergency services to ensure the well-being of its residents. The city is served by the Lineville Police Department and Lineville Fire Department, both committed to providing prompt and professional responses to emergencies.
Emergency medical services are available locally, with more advanced care provided at the nearby Clay County Hospital in Ashland, just a short drive away. The city and county maintain disaster preparedness plans, including designated storm shelters available to the public during severe weather events.
Residents can rely on 911 for all emergency situations, while non-emergency concerns can be directed to local department phone lines, which are readily accessible through the city’s official website or town hall.
Health and Wellness
Lineville, Alabama supports health and wellness through a range of local resources. The community has access to clinics, family doctors, and nearby pharmacies for routine medical care, with more comprehensive services available at Clay County Hospital in Ashland. Mental health support is provided through regional services, offering counseling and behavioral health programs to individuals and families.
For physical wellness, residents can enjoy local recreation facilities, parks, and fitness centers that promote active lifestyles. Additionally, healthy food options are accessible through local grocery stores, farmers markets, and community initiatives that encourage nutritious eating.
Transportation and Infrastructure
Lineville, Alabama, offers a straightforward transportation and infrastructure setup suitable for residents seeking a rural lifestyle with essential connectivity. The city is served by Alabama State Routes 9, 48, and 49, facilitating access to neighboring towns and major highways. Public transportation options are limited, with most residents relying on personal vehicles for commuting. The average commute time is approximately 19.8 minutes, shorter than the U.S. average . Parking regulations are not specified, but the rural setting suggests ample parking availability.
Regarding walkability and bike paths, Lineville has a Walk Score of 23 and a Bike Score of 27, indicating that most errands require a car, and biking infrastructure is minimal .
However, the nearby Chief Ladiga Trail, Alabama’s longest rail trail, offers opportunities for walking and biking enthusiasts . Overall, Lineville’s transportation infrastructure supports a car-dependent lifestyle with access to regional roads and recreational trails.
family friendly lifestyle
Community Events and Culture
Lineville, Alabama, offers a vibrant community life enriched by annual festivals, active faith-based organizations, and numerous opportunities for civic engagement. Signature events such as the Lineville Heritage Day Festival and the Clay County Car Show and Swap Meet celebrate local culture with crafts, food vendors, and live entertainment.
Faith plays a central role, with numerous churches like Lineville Baptist Church, First United Methodist Church, and Vineyard Worship Center providing spiritual guidance and community support . For those seeking to give back, organizations like Servants in Faith & Technology (SIFAT) offer mission-based volunteer opportunities both locally and internationally.
Additionally, the Clay County Chamber of Commerce hosts regular networking events and community programs, fostering a strong sense of civic pride and collaboration
plenty of wilderness
Recreation and Nature
Lineville, Alabama, offers a variety of recreational and natural attractions suitable for all ages and interests. The Lineville City Park serves as a central hub, featuring walking trails, picnic areas, and multiple ball fields. It’s also a recognized birding site, attracting species like herons, egrets, and Eastern bluebirds, especially during spring and fall. Alabama Birding Trails
For outdoor enthusiasts, Cheaha State Park, located approximately 30 miles from Lineville, provides hiking trails, camping sites, and panoramic views from Alabama’s highest point . Additionally, the Pin-Chin-Sky Loop Trail, a 17.7-mile loop combining the Chinabee Silent Trail, Skyway Loop Trail, and a segment of the Pinhoti Trail, offers scenic overlooks, waterfalls, and old-growth forests. KOAThe Outbound
For camping enthusiasts, Flat Rock Camping near Lineville offers RV and tent sites with amenities like showers and kitchen facilities. It’s conveniently located near walking trails and a boat dock on Lake Wedowee, ideal for fishing, kayaking, and swimming. Hipcamp
Youth and adult sports leagues are active in the area, with the Lineville Recreational Sports group organizing events and teams. The community also participates in regional competitions, such as the Lineville 10U softball team, which recently secured third place in a district tournament.
Whether you’re interested in birdwatching, hiking, camping, or sports, Lineville provides a welcoming environment to enjoy nature and community activities.