Andalusia's destiny was determined by the Conecuh River, when the 1841 "Harrison Freshet" brought floods and mosquito fever to the original county seat of Montezuma, forcing the move to higher ground. The new site was named Andalusia, and the post office officially relocated in 1844. Like many small towns, Andalusia's destiny could have once again been determined by an outside force--the economy. However, from timber to textiles, Andalusia has chosen to fight back against abandonment and vacancy and can now truly boast a unique and viable commercial downtown that continues to flourish while preserving its historic structures. Andalusia was awarded the 2013 Quality of Life Award by The Alabama Municipal Journal for purchasing the old Alabama Textile Mill (Alatex) in 2009 and for partnering with the chamber of commerce to create a new chamber office, welcome center, and national textile monument in tribute to the thousands who worked at the site and in textile mills all over the United States.