As a child, Stephen Tuttle Thompson,
founder of Arab, came with his family from Tennessee to Hobb's Road (near the Whitesburg Bridge) in Madison County
in 1836. A short while later, the family traveled
through Gunter's Landing (Guntersville) and settled in
Brown's Valley near Red Hill, which is located at the foot
of Brindlee Mountain. Around 1840, the family again
moved, this time settling on Brindlee Mountain near
Thompson's Falls.
When Stephen Tuttle Thompson reached
adulthood, he became responsible for the mail delivery
(which he delivered in his wagon) in what was then called
Thompson's Village. The United States Post Office was
established in 1882 and in 1892 Stephen Tuttle Thompson was
appointed postmaster. One of his first duties was to
apply to Washington, D.C. for the incorporation of
Thompson's Falls. Three names for consideration were
chosen - Ink, Bird and Arad.
Arab (Which should have been Arad) was chosen, and the error was never corrected.
After the 1892 incorporation, the
first mayor was appointed. His name was J.R.N.
Thompson, and he just happened to be Stephen's son.
In the early 1900's Arab began to
prosper and banks, churches, and businesses began to open.
In 1921, Arab High School was built, using the handmade
bricks of the citizens. In 1927, electricity became
available and in 1934, the city began to offer public water,
and alternative to well water.
Embracing our Future
The City of Arab is a
progressive community that provides a high level of
attraction for a supportive family atmosphere through a
safe, wholesome environment. We are extremely proud of
our outstanding educational opportunities. We feel
that all ages enjoy life-long rewarding employment,
recreation, historical and cultural possibilities.
When Stephen Tuttle Thompson reached
adulthood, he became responsible for the mail delivery
(which he delivered in his wagon) in what was then called
Thompson's Village. The United States Post Office was
established in 1882 and in 1892 Stephen Tuttle Thompson was
appointed postmaster. One of his first duties was to
apply to Washington, D.C. for the incorporation of
Thompson's Falls. Three names for consideration were
chosen - Ink, Bird and Arad.
Arab (Which should have been Arad) was chosen, and the error was never corrected.
The City of Arab is a
progressive community that provides a high level of
attraction for a supportive family atmosphere through a
safe, wholesome environment. We are extremely proud of
our outstanding educational opportunities. We feel
that all ages enjoy life-long rewarding employment,
recreation, historical and cultural possibilities.