From Iron & Industry to Hills & Home: The Story Behind Hillyer High Road

From Iron & Industry to Hills & Home: The Story Behind Hillyer High Road

Anniston’s story began in 1872 as a planned industrial town — born from iron, grit, and big dreams. Founded by Samuel Noble and Daniel Tyler through the Woodstock Iron Company, it was once a bustling “company town,” known for its iron furnaces, pipe foundries, and textile mills. Folks came from all over for work, and by the early 1900s, Anniston had earned the nickname “The Model City.”

As the years rolled on, new industries came, Fort McClellan and the Anniston Army Depot opened, and families started looking to the hills for more space and fresh air. That’s when neighborhoods like Hillyer High Road, often called Hillyer Highlands, began to take shape in the late 1960s and 70s.

Built high on the east side with mountain views and wide lots, it became a quiet escape for those whose families helped build Anniston’s industrial backbone — a place where the hum of the furnaces gave way to peaceful sunsets over the valley.

As a kid, I can remember riding through this neighborhood thinking, “one day, I want to live here.” And now, I’m so blessed that I do — surrounded by great neighbors, strong families, and the same small-town pride that’s carried this community for generations.

From the foundries to the foothills — this is where history meets home. 💚🏡

The name “Hillyer High Road” in Anniston, Alabama, likely honors William Sillman Hillyer, a Union Army officer during the American Civil War. Born in 1830 in Henderson, Kentucky, Hillyer served as a colonel and brevet brigadier general, participating in key battles such as Fort Donelson, Vicksburg, Shiloh, and Appomattox. After the war, he became a prominent lawyer and public official in New Jersey, where he passed away in 1874
Wikipedia
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The road’s name suggests a tribute to Hillyer’s distinguished military service. While there isn’t a direct historical record linking him to Anniston, the naming convention of the area—such as Quintard Avenue, named after Bishop Charles Todd Quintard
Genealogy Trails
—indicates that local streets and roads were often named to honor notable figures.

Given that Hillyer High Road is situated in the eastern part of Anniston, a region developed later than the city’s industrial core, it’s plausible that the road was named in the early 20th century, possibly during the 1920s, when the area began to be developed for residential purposes.

In summary, while direct historical evidence linking William S. Hillyer to Anniston is lacking, the naming of Hillyer High Road likely serves as a tribute to his military service and aligns with the city’s tradition of honoring prominent individuals through its street names.

Why is Hillyer High Known as Copperhead Mountain? The nickname “Copperhead Mountain” for the area around Hillyer High Road in Anniston, Alabama, is rooted in local history and folklore. While the exact origin of the nickname remains unclear, it is believed to be linked to the area’s Civil War history.

During the Civil War, the term “Copperhead” was used to describe Northern Democrats who opposed the war and sympathized with the South. Given Anniston’s proximity to the border between Union and Confederate territories, it’s plausible that the area was associated with such sentiments, leading to the adoption of the nickname “Copperhead Mountain.”

Today, “Copperhead Mountain” is recognized for its scenic views and is a popular spot for outdoor activities, including off-roading and mountain biking. The area features trails like the Copperhead Bypass, which offers access to the top of the mountain and is known for its challenging terrain
AllTrails.com
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Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or adventure, Copperhead Mountain offers a unique glimpse into Anniston’s past and present.

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