Escambia, which means "land of clear water," was carved out of Conecuh and Baldwin Counties by an act of the Alabama Legislature in 1868. The history of Escambia County is the story of human interaction with the environment. The county's wealth of natural resources has been recognized by societies throughout history--from Creek Indians who hunted in its pine forests to European explorers writing back home to its current inhabitants who depend on the land in one way or another. All of the principal towns in Escambia County developed around the railroads, and most of the early communities that were not on the rail system have become small residential communities or are forgotten to history. The only federally recognized tribe of Native Americans in the state of Alabama, the Poarch Creek Indians, is located in Escambia County. Residents enjoy a strong timber and paper industry, a healthy farming community, and a robust oil and gas industry.

The town of Foley, Alabama was founded by John Burton Foley, a very successful businessman from Chicago, and was settled by individuals and families from all over our great nation. This community grew to love its football team and supported it passionately. Through the perspective of Foley High School, we see one of the most tumultuous times in our nation’s history, a period that defined the history of the United States. These individuals lived through the Great Depression and two World Wars to emerge as the greatest and most powerful country in the history of our planet. Our citizens, not only in Foley but also throughout every corner of our nation, were guided by a deep respect and reverence for the Bible. Our hope and prayer is that this book will serve as a reminder of our Christian heritage and the importance of seeking the guidance of our Creator in everything we do if we hope to remain free and strong.