Nestled in southwest Walker County, Oakman stands as a testament to Alabama's rich history and individuality. Its distinctive circular town limits and mayor/city council form of governance distinguish it as one of the state's unique municipalities.
Founded in the early 1820s, Oakman underwent a transformative era with the advent of the Georgia Pacific Railroad and the establishment of a nearby coal mine. Today, the town's population of 6853 reflects a diverse demographic composition. Its economic landscape encompasses various industries, with a notable emphasis on educational services, healthcare, and social assistance.
Oakman also offers a vibrant education system within the Walker County school district and convenient connectivity via State Highway 69/18. The town's cultural offerings, including the Old York USA Heritage and Music Park, further enhance its appeal as a distinctive Alabama destination.
Key Takeaways
- Oakman is located in southwest Walker County in the west-central part of the state.
- The town has a mayor/city council form of government.
- Oakman is one of only four towns in Alabama whose town limits form a circle.
- The town has a rich history, with its settlement dating back to the early to mid-1820s, and it went through various name changes before becoming Oakman in 1894.
Location and Government
Located in southwest Walker County in the west-central part of the state, Oakman operates under a mayor/city council form of government. The town is situated in a unique geographical setting, as it is one of only four towns in Alabama whose town limits form a circle.
Oakman's local government structure is geared towards providing efficient administration and representation for its residents. This form of governance allows for the effective management of the town's affairs and the implementation of policies that cater to the needs of the community. The mayor/city council system enables decision-making that considers the town's historical significance and its current development needs.
Oakman's geographical features, including its circular town limits, contribute to the town's distinct character and add to its appeal as a historically significant Alabama town.
History
The history of Oakman's development and evolution as a community is marked by significant milestones and transitions.
The area was settled in the early to mid-1820s, initially known as York and later renamed Days Gap. Oakman saw growth with the arrival of the Georgia Pacific Railroad and the opening of a nearby coal mine.
Notably, it was the first city in Walker County to install telephone lines. The town changed its name from Days Gap to Oakman in 1894 and was incorporated in 1895.
This period saw substantial changes in the town's infrastructure and economy, shaping its future. The Days Gap settlement and the advent of the Georgia Pacific Railroad played pivotal roles in Oakman's historical narrative, driving its transformation into the charming and historic town it is today.
Demographics
Oakman's demographics reveal a population of 6853, with a median household income of $20,893 and a per capita income of $16,900, as reported by the 2020 Census estimates.
The population diversity is characterized by 78.7 percent identifying as white, 14.0 percent as African American, 7.4 percent as two or more races, and 1.9 percent as Hispanic or Latino.
Economic opportunities are varied, with the largest employment sectors being educational services and health care, social assistance, arts, entertainment, recreation, accommodation, and food services.
Other significant sectors include manufacturing, retail trade, transportation, warehousing, utilities, professional, scientific, management services, public administration, construction, agriculture, forestry, fishing, hunting, extraction, finance, insurance, real estate, rental, leasing, and wholesale trade.
These statistics provide insights into the diverse makeup of Oakman's population and the range of economic opportunities available within the town.
Employment
With a diverse workforce engaged in various industries, Oakman presents a range of employment opportunities that complement its demographic makeup and economic landscape.
- Workforce Sectors:
- Educational services, health care, social assistance
- Arts, entertainment, recreation, accommodation, food services
- Manufacturing, retail trade, transportation, warehousing, utilities
- Professional, scientific, management services, public administration
- Construction, agriculture, forestry, fishing, hunting, extraction
- Finance, insurance, real estate, rental, leasing, wholesale trade
- Job Opportunities:
- Diverse employment options cater to various skills and interests
- Opportunities for growth and development in both traditional and emerging industries
As Oakman continues to evolve, its employment landscape reflects a dynamic mix of traditional and modern job opportunities. The town's workforce sectors encompass a wide range of industries, providing ample job opportunities and potential for professional growth and development.
Education and Transportation
Schools in Oakman are an integral part of the Walker County school system, offering educational opportunities from elementary to high school levels. The town is home to one elementary school and one high school.
State Highway 69/18 runs through Oakman, providing important transportation access to and from the town.
Oakman is also known for the Old York USA Heritage and Music Park, featuring period buildings, a restaurant, and a gift shop. Additionally, the Stephenson House and the Tubbs Cemetery near Oakman are listed on the Alabama Register of Landmarks and Heritage. These landmarks add to the town's cultural and historical significance.
For further information about Oakman, individuals can refer to the Walker County Heritage Book and access external links to the Walker County government, Walker County Schools, and Chamber of Commerce of Walker County.
Additional Resources
For more information about Oakman, individuals can access external links to the Walker County government, Walker County Schools, and Chamber of Commerce of Walker County.
- Walker County Government
- Provides detailed information on local government services, ordinances, and community initiatives.
- Offers resources for residents to engage with local officials and stay informed about civic affairs.
- Walker County Schools
- Offers comprehensive information on educational programs, faculty, and student resources.
- Provides access to academic calendars, extracurricular activities, and support services for students and parents.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are Some Popular Annual Events or Festivals in Oakman?
Annual celebrations in Oakman include the Oakman Labor Day Celebration, featuring family-friendly activities and live entertainment, and the Oakman Christmas Parade, a cherished community gathering with festive floats and holiday cheer.
Are There Any Unique Local Attractions or Landmarks in Oakman?
Local attractions and historic landmarks in Oakman offer unique charm and hidden gems. From the Old York USA Heritage and Music Park to the Stephenson House and Tubbs Cemetery, visitors can explore the town's rich history and cultural heritage.
What Are Some of the Notable Industries or Businesses That Contribute to the Local Economy in Oakman?
Notable industries contributing to the local economy in Oakman include educational services, healthcare, social assistance, arts, entertainment, recreation, accommodation, food services, manufacturing, retail trade, transportation, warehousing, utilities, professional, scientific, management services, and public administration. These businesses have a significant economic impact.
Are There Any Environmental Conservation Efforts or Initiatives in Oakman?
Environmental conservation efforts in Oakman include community initiatives for waste reduction, green space preservation, and water quality improvement. These efforts align with the town's commitment to sustainable development and fostering a healthy, eco-friendly environment for residents.
How Does Oakman Support and Promote Local Arts and Culture Within the Community?
Oakman supports and promotes local arts and culture within the community through various initiatives. These include local art exhibits, community workshops, cultural performances, artist showcases, creative workshops, and public art installations. These activities enrich Oakman's cultural landscape.
Conclusion
Rich in history, Oakman, Alabama, is a town with unique charm and a diverse demographic composition. Its circular town limits and rich heritage make it a standout destination in the state.
The town's economic landscape is varied, with a strong emphasis on educational services, healthcare, and social assistance. Oakman's vibrant education system and connectivity through State Highway 69/18 further add to its appeal.
Visit Oakman for a truly unforgettable experience.
Our Reader’s Queries
What are the demographics of Oakman Alabama?
The top 5 ethnicities in Oakman, AL are: White (Non-Hispanic) at 85%, Black or African American (Non-Hispanic) at 9.71%, Two+ (Non-Hispanic) at 5.28%, White (Hispanic) at 0%, and Black or African American (Hispanic) at 0%.
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