W.A. Handley

Today I got the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of the man that paved the way for Roanoke Al and surrounding cities. William A. Handley and family moved from Liberty Hill GA to Louina after the Indian Removal Act because land became available. The Gold Rush attracted them to this certain spot. He was always a very hard working man which played a huge part in him becoming a very successful business man. The Railroad was major for Cap. Handley because it brought goods to his business. He entered the War in 1861, he was not in the best health so was often sent home to recover. When he would come home to recover his wife would get pregnant. All three babies died and are buried in Louina. He was later discharged and came home to Louina. When the civil war was over the Railroad stopped bringing goods so he went bankrupt. So Cap. Handley moves to Roanoke where he plays a big role in getting the Railroads to extend there so he could continue in business. W.A. Handley took pride in education and did everything in his power to bring the best facilities and staff to a small town like roanoke. Mr. Handley was very wealth but never stood higher than the ordinary man. He showed me to love my town, take pride in who i am and where i’m from, and to make this little town the best it can be.
.(W.A. Handley’s Grave Site)