The rich history of the preserve dates back to documented prehistoric Native American inhabitants. During the early days of Alabama statehood, the preserve played a key role in the birth of industry in this area by the works of early entrepreneur and industrialist David Hanby. The Hanby family ran a grist mill and a small iron forge on the banks of Turkey Creek. David Hanby’s forge made horseshoes for the Confederacy until he was killed by Union Soldiers on April 19th, 1865.

For more information on the Hanby enterprise at TCNP, check out TCNP Currents: The Hanby Enterprise Part 1 and TCNP Currents: The Hanby Enterprise Part 2

For information on how Turkey Creek Nature Preserve became the beautiful nature preserve it is today, please check out :  TCNP Currents: A fresh S.T.A.R.T. for Turkey Creek Part 1 and TCNP Currents: A fresh S.T.A.R.T. for Turkey Creek Part 2