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Why did they name the Edmund Pettus Bridge?

Published in Bridge Naming History 1 min read

The Edmund Pettus Bridge was named in honor of Edmund Pettus, a prominent figure in Alabama's history. He held various significant, and controversial, roles throughout his life.

The Naming of a Historic Landmark

Built in 1940, the Edmund Pettus Bridge carries U.S. Route 80 Business (US 80 Bus.) across the Alabama River in Selma, Alabama. It was named to commemorate Edmund Pettus, a native of Alabama, whose career spanned military service, politics, and leadership within a controversial organization.

Who Was Edmund Pettus?

Edmund Pettus's namesake on the bridge reflects his historical presence and influence, particularly in the state of Alabama. His key roles included:

Role Description
Confederate Brigadier General He served in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War.
U.S. Senator After the Civil War, he went on to represent Alabama in the United States Senate.
Grand Dragon of the Alabama Ku Klux Klan He was a state-level leader, specifically referred to as a "Grand Dragon," of the Ku Klux Klan in Alabama.

The bridge's name, therefore, directly references these aspects of Edmund Pettus's public life and legacy.