Fort McClellan, located near Anniston, Alabama, was a prominent U.S. Army installation with a rich history spanning much of the 20th century. Below is detailed information about the fort:
County: Calhoun County
Zip Code: 36205
Latitude / Longitude: 33.7290° N, 85.7640° W
Elevation: Approximately 640 feet (195 meters)
Time Zone: Central Time Zone (UTC-6; UTC-5 during Daylight Saving Time)
Established: 1917
Disestablished: 1999
Comments: Established in 1917 during World War I, Fort McClellan served as a major training center for U.S. Army personnel. During World War II, it was one of the largest U.S. Army installations, training an estimated half-million troops. Military History The fort was home to various training schools, including the Chemical Corps and the Military Police School. In 1999, Fort McClellan was officially closed as part of the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process.
Remains: Following its closure, portions of the fort have been repurposed. The Alabama National Guard utilizes parts of the former base for training purposes. Additionally, a portion of the land was established as the Mountain Longleaf National Wildlife Refuge, which preserves the unique longleaf pine ecosystem.
Current Status: Partially repurposed; portions serve as a wildlife refuge and National Guard training area
Remarks: Fort McClellan’s legacy continues through its contributions to military training and environmental conservation. The establishment of the Mountain Longleaf National Wildlife Refuge ensures the protection of a unique natural habitat, while the Alabama National Guard’s presence maintains the site’s military heritage.
For a visual exploration of Fort McClellan and its historical significance, you might find the following video informative:
