By Marla Ballard
Reporter
DEKALB COUNTY - The town of Hammondville encompasses a total area of 4.9 square miles with a population of approximately 500. Nestled in the valley between Lookout Mountain and Sand Mountain and positioned at the intersection of Alabama’s Highway 117 and U.S. 11 travelers find easy access to Hammondville’s 2nd Annual Hamfest.
The Hamfest name was chosen to represent the town’s name and the barbeque competition included in the festivities. The little town had settlers long before it was incorporated in 1932. The settlement grew partly as a result of the 1926 construction of U.S. Highway 11.
William Cook Hammond settled in 1832 on the western side of the present town. Among the other well-known names associated with the area are: Thompson, Tate, Ballard, Crows, Chadwicks, Carmichael, McSpadden, Phillips,
Samples, Gardner, Winston, Huolgan, Hawkins, Alexanders, Roses, Fishers, Harrises, and Davenport. The town was incorporated under the leadership of W.B. (Bleve) Hammond who served as its mayor for the first 27 years.
The annual Hamfest was initially held on the first weekend in June and this year the decision was made to move it to the second weekend due to the return of the June Jam festival. Hammondville Town Clerk, Kim Johnson said,
“If June Jam continues to occupy the first weekend of June, the city council may decide to keep our event on the second weekend in June.”
The amateur BBQ Contest will award $250 for first place, $150 for second place, and $100 for third place. Contestants should contact Hammondville
Town Hall for registration forms or go to Facebook to find a form that may be printed, filled out and turned in at the Town Hall. Registration fee for the barbeque contest is $50. “We are excited this year to have an official Kansas City barbeque judge to oversee the contest, said Johnson. “Local officials will still be involved in the judging as well.”
In addition to the barbeque contest there will be a car show. “We welcome all types of vehicles which includes motorcycles, antique and muscle cars, and custom cars,” said Johnson. Registration is $20. Trophies will be awarded in approximately 15 categories.
“Visitors can expect a variety of food, and of course barbeque will be served by a local vendor,” said Johnson. Food vendor registration is $25. Guest at the Hamfest will also enjoy a kids zone, Arts & Crafts, live entertainment, a robotics presentation, and more.
All proceeds go to the Hammondville Park. “Some of the improvements to the park we would like to do include making the men’s restroom ADA approved and adding playground equipment to the park,” said Johnson.
The event will take place Saturday, June 10. Location 37646 US 11. Festivities begin at 10:00 a.m. For more information call Hammondville Town Hall 256-635-6374. Also follow on Facebook @ Town of Hammondville.
