Winston County

Winston County, Alabama, was created as Hancock County on Feb. 12, 1850 from territory formerly in Walker County. It was named for Gov. John Hancock of Massachusetts. On January 22, 1858, the name was changed to honor Alabama Gov. John A. Winston.

The county is located in the northwestern part of the state, in the Appalachian foothills. It currently encompasses 614 square miles. The county contains rich mineral deposits. Today a large portion of the county is part of the William B. Bankhead National Forest. The county seat is located in Double Springs.

The county gained notoriety during the Civil War due to its reluctance to support the Confederacy. From the Alabama Department of Archives & History.

Winston County Links:

Bankhead National Forest

Industrial Development Authority of Winston County

Looney's Tavern Amphitheater

Winston County Extension Office

Winston County Fact Sheet

Winston County QuickFacts