Thomaston AlabamaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Thomaston, Alabama.
1. Rural Heritage Center Gift Shop
LOCAL CRAFTS AND HISTORY
The Rural Heritage Center Gift Shop offers visitors a chance to purchase locally made crafts and souvenirs that represent the culture of Thomaston. Visitors can find unique handmade items that showcase the regional heritage and artistic talents of local artisans. The shop provides a warm, welcoming atmosphere where tourists can connect with authentic Alabama traditions.
2. Eagle Field
COMMUNITY GATHERING SPOT
Eagle Field serves as Thomaston's primary gathering place for community events and outdoor activities. The field hosts local games, festivals, and celebrations throughout the year, bringing residents and visitors together. Its open spaces and facilities make it an ideal venue for experiencing the town's community spirit and local culture.
3. Thomaston Calaboose
HISTORIC JAIL BUILDING
The Thomaston Calaboose is a historic one-story jail building constructed between 1905 and 1925, featuring a distinctive structure made of stacked 2x4s with iron-barred windows. This historic building was primarily used to lock up local drunks in the 1920s, while more serious offenders were sent to the county jail in Linden. The Calaboose was added to the National Register of Historic Places as part of the Thomaston Central Historic District in October 2000.
4. Mama Nem's
SOUTHERN HOME COOKING
Mama Nem's is a beloved local dining establishment in Thomaston that serves authentic Southern home cooking. The restaurant offers hearty meals made with traditional recipes that have been passed down through generations. Visitors can experience the warm hospitality and comforting flavors that define Alabama's culinary heritage.
5. Gaineswood
ANTEBELLUM ARCHITECTURAL MARVEL
Gaineswood is an impressive National Historic Landmark located near Thomaston that showcases one of America's finest examples of Greek Revival architecture. Built between 1843 and 1861, this antebellum mansion features elaborate domed ceilings, ornate moldings, and original furnishings. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the home's fascinating history and the lives of its former inhabitants.
6. Demopolis Public Library
HISTORIC LITERARY HAVEN
The Demopolis Public Library serves as a cultural and educational center for residents and visitors in the area surrounding Thomaston. The library offers a welcoming environment with a rich collection of books, digital resources, and special programming for all ages. Its historic building adds to the charm of downtown Demopolis while providing modern amenities for research and leisure reading.
7. Bluff Hall
ELEGANT HISTORIC HOME
Bluff Hall is a stunning Federal-style mansion built in 1832 that sits majestically on a limestone bluff overlooking the Tombigbee River. The home showcases period furnishings and artifacts that tell the story of the area's early settlers and antebellum society. Visitors can explore the beautifully preserved rooms and learn about the home's significant role in local history.
8. Orrville Farmer's Market
FRESH LOCAL PRODUCE
The Orrville Farmer's Market brings together local farmers and artisans who showcase the best agricultural products from the region near Thomaston. Visitors can browse fresh fruits, vegetables, homemade jams, baked goods, and handcrafted items in a friendly, community-oriented setting. The market provides a glimpse into the agricultural heritage that continues to thrive in rural Alabama.
9. Thomaston Colored Institute
EDUCATIONAL HERITAGE SITE
The Thomaston Colored Institute was a private academy established in 1910 that served the educational needs of the African American community. The institute was constructed using locally made bricks from the Thomaston Brick Works, highlighting the town's industrial heritage. Today, the historic site stands as a testament to the educational aspirations and achievements of Thomaston's diverse community during the early 20th century.
10. Marengo County High School
HISTORIC EDUCATIONAL LANDMARK
The Marengo County High School, dedicated on June 24, 1909, represents an important chapter in Thomaston's commitment to education. The school building features locally produced bricks from the Thomaston Brick Works, showcasing the town's industrial capabilities of the early 20th century. Its establishment followed Dr. Thomas's donation of land in 1905, demonstrating the founder's vision for a modern town centered around educational opportunities.
11. Thomaston Central Historic District
PRESERVED TOWN HERITAGE
The Thomaston Central Historic District encompasses the historic core of the town and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2000. The district features numerous well-preserved buildings that showcase the architectural styles and building techniques popular during Thomaston's development in the early 20th century. Visitors can stroll through the district to appreciate the authentic small-town character and learn about Thomaston's evolution from its founding years through periods of growth and change.
12. Planters Bank and Trust Company
HISTORIC FINANCIAL INSTITUTION
The Planters Bank and Trust Company, established in 1914, served as an important financial institution during Thomaston's development as a modern town. The historic building represents the economic aspirations of the community during a period of growth that also saw the arrival of telephone service and, later, electricity. Today, the structure stands as a physical reminder of Thomaston's commercial history and the financial infrastructure that supported local businesses and residents.
13. Thomaston Brick Works
INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE SITE
The Thomaston Brick Works produced the locally made bricks used in many of the town's significant buildings, including the Thomaston Colored Institute and Marengo County High School. This industrial operation played a crucial role in the physical development of Thomaston during its formative years in the early 20th century. The legacy of the brick works can still be seen in the distinctive appearance of Thomaston's historic architecture.
14. Linden Historic District
CHARMING DOWNTOWN AREA
The Linden Historic District, located in the nearby county seat, offers visitors a charming glimpse into the architectural and cultural heritage of the region surrounding Thomaston. The district features well-preserved commercial buildings, homes, and public spaces that tell the story of the area's development. Visitors can explore local shops, restaurants, and historic sites while experiencing the authentic character of a small Alabama town.
15. Faunsdale Bar & Grill
LEGENDARY LOCAL EATERY
The Faunsdale Bar & Grill is a legendary establishment near Thomaston that has been serving locals and travelers for generations with its distinctive atmosphere and Southern cuisine. The restaurant occupies a historic building that adds to its authentic charm and connection to the region's past. Visitors can enjoy hearty meals in a casual setting while experiencing a true slice of rural Alabama culture.