William A. Handley was born in Heard County Georgia in 1834. Captain Handley and his family John and Nancy Randolph moved to Randolph county after the indian removal act sense new land had open. William A. Handley was a very logical thinker and a very successful business man. The railroad brought goods and new customers. But when the Civil War ended he became bankrupt and moved to Roanoke, Alabama. This is where he plays a big role in are society today with the education and growth of or small community of Roanoke, Alabama. Without Captain Handley we could be going to school in Wadley or something so thanks to him we have the wonderful Handley High School.