History
Shorter was originally called Cross Keys for the birthplace in South Carolina of an early settler, J.H. Howard. It was later named Shorter for former Alabama Governor John Gill Shorter. The town embodies the memories of the proud Creek Indian Nation, the Old South, and the Civil Rights Movement. It was originally a part of Creek Indian Territory and now a part of Macon County, which was created in 1832.
Shorter is home to several state historical sites and boasts one of the longest stretches of the Old Federal Road built in 1804. Although the community has existed for more than a century, Shorter was not officially incorporated until February 29, 1984. Over the years, the town has been guided in its growth and development by dedicated leaders and enriched by the many citizens who call Shorter home. At the time of this marker dedication, elected officers included Mayor Willie Mae Powell, elected in 1998, and council members Desiev Howard, Betty Jeter, Edward Pollard, Rhonda McCloud, and Derrick McCloud. Harold D. Powell was the town clerk.
Topics
This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Civil Rights • Native Americans • Roads & Vehicles • Settlements & Settlers. A significant historical date for this entry is February 29, 1984.
Location
32° 23.63′ N, 85° 55.324′ W. Marker is in Shorter, Alabama, in Macon County. Marker can be reached from Old Federal Road (County Road 8) 0.1 miles west of Deer Run Trail, on the left when traveling west. Marker is located about 300 yards to the north of the Old Shorter School and 50 yards to the south of Old Federal Road, fenced in down a rough driveway. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 1060 Old Federal Road, Shorter AL 36075, United States of America. Touch for directions.
