History of Alexandria...

Alexandria was founded in 1836 with railroad and canal transportation in the works.  In 1887 natural gas was discovered and created an instant industrial and population boom.  After the gas supply began to wane at the turn of the century, the industries depending on “free” gas slowly disappeared and the new Alexandria gradually appeared.

The first interurban from Alexandria to Anderson ushered in a new era of transportation running through town on the main street of the business district.  Auto transportation doomed the interurban and service was abandoned in the 1930’s.

In the 1920’s, local entrepreneur C.C. Hall invented and produced Rock Wool insulation which ultimately became part of Johns-Manville.

During WWII, Alexandria was selected as the typical “Small Town USA” by the U.S. Office of War Information and used as a propaganda piece all over the world.

Many industries were prevalent as the years passed including Lippincott Glass, Aladdin Lamps, National Gypsum, Johns-Manville and The Glove Corp. to name a few.

In the mid 50’s employment soared with many locals finding employment with Anderson General Motors plants as skilled workers, production workers, supervisors and engineers.  Many smaller industries sprang up to supply parts to the largest county employer.

Local musician Bill Gaither began writing and singing gospel music in the late 50’s.  His popularity nationwide led to great Gaither Expansion and the Gaither gospel business became one of the largest employers in Alexandria and remains so to this day.  Gaither became on of Alexandria’s most celebrated citizens with musical tours all over the country.

Alexandria is a small town with tree lined streets and is reminiscent of a past slower pace of life.  People are friendly and helpful.  Alexandria has seen growth in recent years from expansion of existing business and there is potential for ‘small-town living’ and manufacturing expansion.