Butler County, Alabama
Fort Bibb was built during Alabama’s frontier period and stood along the Old Federal Road. This marker tells the story of a stockade fort built around the home of Captain James Saffold at Pine Flats.
Marker Text:
Named for Alabama Territorial Governor William Wyatt Bibb, Fort Bibb was built in winter 1817-1818 to protect settlers from Creek Indian attacks. It was said to be a stockade enclosing Capt. James Saffold’s home at the Flats (Pine Flat). Col. Sam Dale helped strengthen Fort Bibb in spring 1818 as he and his militia built Fort Dale 13-14 miles northeast on the Federal Road. These forts were Butler County’s first election sites in 1820.
The Butler County Historical Society 2012
Old Federal Road Project
Fort Bibb is another reminder that the Old Federal Road was more than a travel route. In the early years of Alabama, it was a lifeline through the frontier. Forts like Fort Bibb gave settlers a place of protection, served military needs, and even became early civic gathering places. By 1820, when Butler County held its first elections, Fort Bibb was one of the sites where local government began taking shape.
YouTube Video
Location
Butler County, Alabama
GPS: 31.83848, -86.88242