Captain Handley

W.A. Handley and his family moved from Georgia to Randolph County after the Indian Removal Act made land in the area available.  The Alabama Gold Rush attracted the family, and others, to settle in the area.  Mr. Handley became a successful business man in his early years.  The Railroad Industry was very vital to the economy during this time.  Later on, the Cold War stopped the transfer of goods by the railroads.  This prevented business, like W.A. Handley's, from getting the materials they needed.  Mr. Handley's business soon went bankrupt and he moved to Roanoke to start a new business.  Captain Handley's wealth grew and he brought a railroad to Roanoke and established schools for the city.  Mr. Handley valued education and wanted to help provide places to learn for the small town.  W.A. Handley was a wealthy man who looked to help others, and didn't flaunt his money around.  Captain Handley's story taught me that even though I come from a small town, I still can make an impact in the world.