Pell City residents and visitors will take a step back in time Oct. 1 with the arrival of Avondale Mills Day.

Named for the old Avondale Mills, which for many years was the city’s economic and social center, the one-day festival promises to provide a fun family environment. With events centered in the downtown, the day will begin with a Puppy Parade, featuring dogs of all sizes and breeds competing for various prizes. Registration for the parade begins at 10 a.m. that day. The Pell City Animal Hospital will have a booth with a hydration station and air conditioned area for dogs.

There will be several pet-focused booths at the event, such as ASPCI’s station, which will offer reduced spay/neuter certificates. Pell City Animal Control Center will also provide horse rides for children. A petting zoo is also planned during the day.

Pell City was founded in 1890 by railroad investors and named after Jonathan H. Pell of the Pell City Iron and Land Company. The city was incorporated on May 6, 1891, but nearly failed during the economic Panic of 1893. The town’s fortunes were revived in 1902 when Sumter Cogswell built the Pell City Manufacturing Company, which afterward was named Avondale Mills. The factory was dismantled in 2008. 

Hosted by The Heart of Pell City, events for Avondale Mills Day are planned from 11 a.m.- 9 p.m., including live bluegrass and gospel music by Jamison Taylor. Local artists and retailers will also be selling goods throughout the day in a street fair environment.

One of the highlights of the day will include Pell City students performing a play about the town’s origin, titled “Our Town.” Written in 1990 by former teacher Vickie Harmon, the script will feature some updates by students.

The deadline for vendors to participate in the event is Sept. 24. Potential vendors should contact Brandy Robinson at 256-368-1348.