The history of Robinson Springs, Millbrook’s forgotten village

Did you know Millbrook was once home to its own little village called Robinson Springs?

This historic pocket of Alabama life dates back to the early 1800s, when settlers built a small but lively community around natural springs, farming, and faith. While most of the original village has blended into modern Millbrook, a few places still hold echoes of its past—if you know where to look.

At the heart of Robinson Springs is a story that goes beyond bricks and buildings. From Creek Nation gatherings to church socials and even Alabama’s first state fair, this spot has seen a lot of history. And according to some locals, it might still have a few ghost stories lingering, too.

Robinson Springs United Methodist Church

One of the last visible links to Robinson Springs’ past is the Robinson Springs United Methodist Church, built in 1848 in classic Greek Revival style. Sitting quietly at the corner of AL‑14 and AL‑143, the church—and its adjoining cemetery—served as the heart of the old village.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it still stands today, holding the stories of Millbrook’s earliest families.

What Made Robinson Springs Special?

🌿 Healing waters — In the 1800s, folks believed the natural springs had medicinal powers, making this spot a popular summer retreat back in the day.
🎪 Alabama’s first state fair — Believe it or not, the very first Alabama State Fair happened right here in 1852, before Millbrook was even on the map.
⛪ Historic church and cemetery — The Robinson Springs United Methodist Church, built in 1848, and its neighboring cemetery are still here today. They’re quiet landmarks that hold the stories of Millbrook’s early settlers.
👻 Local ghost tales — Some say you can feel the past lingering near the churchyard, with whispered stories of shadowy figures and ghostly footsteps passed down through generations.

Robinson Springs isn’t a place you’ll find listed on travel guides or tourist maps, and that’s part of what makes it special.

There’s no big museum or flashy attraction—instead, it lives quietly in Millbrook’s landscape through places like the Robinson Springs United Methodist Church and its historic cemetery.

These simple landmarks hold the layers of history that shaped the town, from Creek Nation gatherings to early settlers and the state’s first fair.

If you pass by the church on a foggy morning or sit under the old oak trees, you might just feel it—that quiet connection to the past that still hums beneath Millbrook’s everyday life. It’s the kind of place where history lingers quietly.

Love learning about Alabama’s hidden history, legends and local lore? 🐐👻📜🌲 📩 Sign up for our free newsletter and we’ll send more stories like this straight to your inbox.