Local History
Local History and Genealogy
The Edwin Godbold Local History Department includes maps, indexes, rare books, directories, and unique material. While we cannot perform in-depth family history searches, many methods can be used to begin your research. You may submit a research request by clicking here.
Online mapping tools like the University of Alabama's historic maps and historic aerial photos, or Dallas County's online parcel viewer, may be helpful to you. Another helpful resource for genealogists is the USGenWeb page, which has tombstone inscriptions for many Dallas County cemetaries. If you are planning a visit to the Selma area, you may wish to familarize yourself with our Historic District map, and a layout of the Local History room.
Part of the collection is held in The Richard and Betty Rose Gibian Archives Room, which includes census records, vertical files, and maps. The materials in this collection are for reference use only and may not be borrowed. Our continuing thanks to the Godbold and Gibian families for their support in the expansion and development of this area of local history.
Please feel free to contact us here.