A LAND RICH IN HISTORY

Before Benjamin Russell and before Lake Martin, thousands of acres of land near Kowaliga Creek were owned by the Benson family, important and historic pioneers. Born a slave, J.J. Benson would become a highly successful entrepreneur. Under his leadership, the Benson family operated extensive farmland, as well as several key industrial operations. His son, William, a graduate of Howard University in Washington, D.C., returned home in 1895 to found the Kowaliga Academic and Industrial Institute and the Dixie Industrial Company in 1900 to enhance the lives of the local black population.

BUILDING AN EMPIRE

Russell Manufacturing Company would grow into a true American success story thanks to the vision and dedication of Mr. Ben. His commitment extended to his employees as well, which led to the building of a hospital, church, school and vital infrastructure to support the families moving into the rapidly growing Russell Mill Village. In 1932, Southern Manufacturing Company was formed, moving the company into the athletic apparel industry. This was the beginning of Russell Athletic, a brand that would grow to be known the world over.

A POWERFUL VISION

As early as 1911, Ben Russell recognized the potential for hydroelectric power offered by the Tallapoosa River. He started construction of a dam at Buzzards' Roost Shoals, only to learn of competition downstream at Cherokee Bluffs. Mr. Ben's project was sold to what would become Alabama Power Company. Needless to say, when more than 44,000 acres of dry land are about to be flooded, preparations are extensive. Construction of workshops and other support facilities, clearing of the reservoir basin, even the delicate task of respectfully moving existing burial grounds - all were a part of the preparations needed with the coming of Martin Dam.

A MONUMENTAL PROJECT

By 1923, construction at Cherokee Bluffs had begun in earnest. A small army of workers descended upon the area, occupying a work camp estimated to be larger than Alexander City at the time. Local citizens often made the dusty trip to visit the site. Frequently, entire families picnicked while "inspecting" the colossal construction project. Hundreds gathered as Alabama Governor William W. Brandon spoke at the cornerstone laying ceremony in 1925.

AN UNPRECEDENTED CREATION

In early June 1926, engineers began pouring the last two sections of the dam. The superintendent's journal entry on June 8, 1926 simply said, "all flow of the river stopped by dam." Later that same month, Alabama Power Company officially named the project "Martin Dam" and the coming body of water "Lake Martin" in honor of Thomas W. Martin, then president of the company. Newly constructed Kowaliga Bridge would provide welcome transportation across the waters of what would be the largest man-made lake in the world at the time.

A DESTINATION IS BORN

Long before Lake Martin became a reality, Ben Russell recognized a jewel in the making. To help preserve what would become 750 miles of pristine shoreline, Mr. Ben ultimately acquired a significant portion of the land. His vision was certainly rewarded. The public response to Lake Martin was undeniable. Parks, clubs and special events flourished. The old Kowaliga School became the popular Hotel Camp Dixie. Word spread about Alabama's new world-class outdoor wonderland, drawing visitors from across America.

A GROWING PHENOMENON

Over the years, as more people came to appreciate the endless fun and recreation to be found at Lake Martin, it was necessary to create new facilities to accommodate them. The Russell family allowed the state to build a roadside park on company property in the historic Kowaliga area in 1948-49. However, it was soon outgrown and eventually became outdated. In 1960, Robert Russell then began construction of the larger Wind Creek Park. This wildly successful project ultimately became a state park in 1970 and since has been greatly expanded. Wind Creek Park stands today as another product of Mr. Ben's "eye toward the future of this new land."

EARLY LAKE LIVING

A glance back to the past. A view of the history of the old Russell Lands cabins and fish camps would come with great surprise while viewing a typical home in any of the present Russell Lands lakeside developments. Yet those dwellings from the "good old days" served a noble purpose and forged an icon of warm rustic neighborhoods.

A MUSICAL LEGEND

Lake Martin has no doubt inspired many great things. In 1952, while staying at the Dobbs' Cabin, a visiting Hank Williams was so moved that he penned two classic songs, "Kaw-Liga" and "Your Cheatin' Heart." Today, the historic cabin features reproduced furnishings that match those enjoyed by its most famous guest.

A NEW ERA

In 1960, Russell Farms officially became Russell Lands. The third- generation management maintained the traditional closeness to the land approach in their effort to protect and enhance lakefront properties for residential communities and recreational venues. Willow Point Golf & Country Club, built as a replacement for the old Alexander City golf course in 1964, would be among the first major properties to come under Russell Lands' stewardship. The company broke ground on its first residential development, Willow Point Estates, in 1972. All of this was just the beginning of a new era that epitomizes all of Russell Lands' developments today.

IN CELEBRATION of Alabama's "Year of the Child," a time capsule was dedicated and buried at Children's Harbor in 1989. Children from across the state submitted views on their life and times. All will be invited to attend the opening in 2039.

A BEACON OF HOPE FOR CHILDREN

"Mr. Ben" established a proud family legacy of uncommon commitment to both land and community. The spirit is well honored today by his grandson, namesake, and current CEO - Ben Russell. In 1989, Ben and his wife Luanne created Children's Harbor, a not-for-profit organization with a refreshingly simple mission: STRENGTHENING CHILDREN AND FAMILIES.

Russell Lands' principal charity rests on a beautiful 66-acre campus on Lake Martin providing camping and adventure services to thousands of children with long-term serious illnesses and their families. The Russells also have developed and funded the Children's Harbor Family Center within the Children's Hospital Complex in Birmingham, to provide family counseling, social work, education, and support services.

On May 23, 2008, it was announced that Ben and Luanne Russell had pledged $25 million in support of Children's Hospital. The gift is the largest in the history of Children's Hospital. With the anticipated opening of a new facility in 2012, the Children's Hospital Campus will be renamed the Benjamin Russell Hospital for Children in memory of "Mr. Ben."

RUSSELL LANDS TODAY

Under the leadership of Ben Russell, the company continues to grow and prosper in the 21st century. Like his grandfather, Mr. Russell is dedicated to making Russell Lands a company of unique vision, diversity, and service. He understands that maximizing the Lake Martin experience for everyone goes beyond the world-class homes and neighborhoods developed by the company. Russell Marine offers boating enthusiasts world-class sales and service through four Lake Martin marinas and was ranked 9th in the nation's Top 100 Boat Dealers in 2007. In 1998, Russell Lands constructed the Lake Martin Amphitheater - a tremendous venue for celebrating culture and the creative arts. Russell Do-It and Home DÈcor Centers make it easier for homeowners to personalize the way they live. The company has even established a proud tradition of promoting renewable energy, building and operating vehicles that literally run on wood waste from the company's forest products division.