Winston County, AL
History
Winston County, Alabama, was created as Hancock County in 1850 from territory formerly in Walker County. It was named for Gov. John Hancock of Massachusetts and famous signer of the American Declaration of Independence. On January 22, 1858, the name was changed to honor John A. Winston, the 15th Governor of Alabama.During the American Civil War, Winston County gained attention for its opposition to secession, a sentiment so strong that the county is sometimes referred to as the Republic of Winston.