Cook Springs, AL

Cook Springs is a small town located in Colbert County, Alabama. The population was 1,812 at the 2010 census. Cook Springs is home to the historic Cook Springs Hotel and the Cook Springs Golf Course. The town's economy is based on tourism and agriculture.

The history of Cook Springs can be traced back to 1825 when James Waddell established a trading post on the banks of the Coosa River. In 1827, Waddell sold his trading post to Captain John A. Murrell who renamed it "Cooks Spring." In 1853, Drury C. Murrell built a hotel on the site of Captain Murrell's original trading post and named it after his father-in-law, General James H. Cook who had died in battle just two years earlier. The hotel was destroyed by fire in 1886 but was rebuilt shortly thereafter and continued operating until 1966 when it closed its doors for good due to declining tourism numbers.

Today, much of what makes Cook Springs unique remains unchanged including its historic downtown district which features several well-preserved antebellum homes as well as several commercial buildings from the early 20th century including a bank, grocery store and hardware store which are still operational today. The town also boasts one of Alabama's only golf courses which has been in operation since 1916 and is now managed by The Golf Club at Cooks Spring LLC., a private club that offers both public and private golfing opportunities year round..

The economy of Cook Springs is based largely on tourism with visitors coming for its beautiful scenery as well as its proximity to several major attractions such as Talladega Superspeedway, Phil Campbell Motorsports Park and Lake Martin State Park which are all within easy driving distance from town.. There are also several local businesses that cater specifically to tourists such as restaurants serving traditional southern cuisine as well as shops selling souvenirs related to Talladega or Phil Campbell Motorsports Park..

While there may be some challenges facing the community in terms of maintaining its historical character or attracting new businesses that will support an expanding economy, overall things seem stable and positive for residents of Cook Springs..