Hurricane, Alabama facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Hurricane
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 Hurricane
Location in Alabama
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| Country |  United States |
| State |  Alabama |
| County | Baldwin |
| Elevation | 9 m (30 ft) |
| Time zone | UTC-6 (Central (CST)) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-5 (CDT) |
| Area code(s) | 251 |
Hurricane is a small, quiet place located in Baldwin County, Alabama, in the United States. It's an unincorporated community, which means it's a group of homes and businesses that isn't officially part of a city or town. Instead, it's governed by the county. Hurricane is situated right on the Tensaw River, about 12 miles (19 km) north of Spanish Fort, Alabama.
A Look Back: Hurricane's History
Hurricane has had a few different names over the years. It was once known as "Hurricane Bayou" and also "Tensaw Station." Each name tells a bit about its past.
Tensaw Station During the Civil War
During the American Civil War (1861-1865), this area was very important. It was called Tensaw Station back then. This spot was the last stop on the Mobile and Great Northern Railroad. This railway was a super important link for moving people and supplies. It connected the city of Montgomery, Alabama to Meridian, Mississippi.
Because there was a gap in the railway between Montgomery and Selma, Alabama, soldiers and supplies had to take a special route. They would travel by train from Montgomery to Tensaw Station, passing through Pollard, Alabama. Once they reached Tensaw Station, everything was moved onto steamships. These ships would then sail to Mobile, Alabama, where the goods and people could get back on trains to Meridian. This made Tensaw Station a busy hub during the war.
How Hurricane Got Its Name
After the Civil War, the community continued to grow. In 1877, a post office was set up, and it was named Hurricane Bayou. Later, in 1895, the name was shortened to just Hurricane.
The name "Hurricane" comes from a powerful storm. A big hurricane had hit the area, leaving a lasting impression. That's how this community got its unique name. The post office eventually closed in 1962.
