Red Bay, AL

Red Bay sits in western Franklin County, about a mile from the Alabama-Mississippi state line. It was first known as Vinson's Crossroads, and the current name refers to the redbay trees that grew across the area. The town moved from its original site along Gum Creek to the present location, incorporated in 1907, and gained a branch of the Illinois Central Railroad that same year. Rail access turned Red Bay into a lumber-cutting and shipping center. State Highway 24 now runs east-west through the city, with Highways 23 and 19 connecting the border community to the surrounding county.

ATTRHighrubicon / Public domain

Red Bay Museum keeps that railroad-and-town history tangible through exhibits on the first bank, an early drug-store soda fountain, and local memorabilia. The museum also documents Tammy Wynette's childhood connection to Red Bay, while the stretch of Highway 23 toward Mississippi carries her name. Franklin County School District operates Red Bay High School, and the city adds a park with a pool, walking trail, skate facility, soccer field, and sports complex. Founder's Day in September brings music, food, crafts, a car and bike show, and local contests to a town whose history still crosses a state line.