As Maplesville readies its streets for the statewide Small Town Alabama event this Saturday, several organizers continue to dot I’s and cross T’s on various activities to be held during the day.

“We’ve had several people busy just at the museum trying to finish up with the photos and others outside cleaning up and sprucing up,” Maplesville resident Clem Clapp said. “It’s really looking good around there. The town and a citizens group had close to 40 vendors committed to being here.”

The food court in the recently paved parking lot next to the barber shop will feature Noodie’s BBQ, Ya Ya’s Hot Dogs, 3D Hot Dogs and several others.

Clapp, also a member of the Maplesville Historical Society, said a variety of clothing and craft makers have expressed interest in including wooden productions and pottery.

The idea for the statewide celebration came from the state department of tourism a couple of years ago, Clapp said.

“I’ve heard of people from outlying communities express interest in visiting as well as former residents from other states making plans to attend,” he said. “I think that good weather will be the gauge for overall turnout.”

Wayne Arnold will discuss the day of April 1, 1865, when Wilson’s Raiders came through and burned the Southern train depot on the way to the battle at Ebenezer’s Church.

Clapp said several people told him they are looking forward to watching the 1-hour local history DVD produced by Joel Atchison and his daughter Kelly.

Since hearing those requests, Atchison made several dozen copies, which will be available for sale.

Starting at 9 a.m., the DVD will be shown continuously until 3 p.m.

The event will host the opening of the local history museum in the old Southern Depot. The historical society recently scavenged for old photos to document earlier days of the community to put on display for folks to observe on Saturday.

For more info, contact Maplesville Town Hall at (334) 366-4212.