• Newspaper
  • Community

  • History

    The Atmore Advance was founded in 1927.

    Circulation

    The Advance is published Wednesdays and Sundays.

    The circulation is approximately 3,300.

    Internet presence

    www.atmoreadvance.com

    Awards

    The Advance was named the General Excellence winner in 2000 by the Alabama Press Association.

    Community involvement

    Atmore Advance employees participate in a number of area clubs and organizations including: Relay for Life Team, Atmore Area Chamber of Commerce, Alabama Press Association.

  • Geographic location

    Atmore is located in Southwest Alabama, 40 miles from Pensacola, Fla., and 50 miles from Mobile, Ala., nestled against the Florida state line.

    Population

    City of Atmore: 8,175

    Coverage area: 19,000

    Escambia County: 38,440

    Market

    The Atmore market is largely rural in nature with a good mix of industry and agriculture.

    Economy

    Cotton and peanut farming make up a considerable portion of the area’s economy. The community’s largest employers include Alto Products, Masland Carpets and Swift Lumber Co.

    Climate

    Atmore experiences typical Southern weather with hot summers and mild winters.

    Education

    The area is served by the Escambia County School System, which has two elementary schools, a middle school and a high school located within the city limits. A private school, Escambia Academy, offers K-12 education just outside of town, as does Atmore Christian School.

    Jefferson Davis Community College has a local campus to provide opportunities in higher education and specialized training for business and industry.

    Culture

    Atmore, originally called Williams Station, began as a railroad supply stop. The city grew up around the railroad and celebrates its railroad heritage each October with Williams Station Day, sponsored by the Atmore Area Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber also sponsors Mayfest and the city’s Christmas parade.

    Atmore also is home to the federally-recognized Poarch Band of Creek Indians. Don’t miss the annual Thanksgiving Day Pow-Wow in Poarch! People come from great distances to enjoy Indian roast corn and traditional Indian dances.

    The area boasts a diverse religious community, with Baptist, Methodist, Presbyterian, Mennonite, Catholic, Episcopalian, Latter Day Saints, Church of Christ, Assembly of God, Church of God, and other congregations.

    Recreation

    Outdoor activities abound in the Atmore area, which is perfectly situated for hunting, fresh and saltwater fishing, short trips to the beach and canoe trips. The local YMCA provides opportunities for youth soccer and basketball, and in the summer, baseball rules.

    North of the city, Little River State Park offers numerous recreational opportunities.

    Area information

    Atmore Area Chamber of Commerce

    251-368-3305