Fort Payne Hosiery Museum — Fort Payne, Alabama

Discover the Fort Payne Hosiery Museum Tour in Alabama

The Fort Payne Hosiery Museum Tour in Fort Payne, Alabama offers a fascinating look into the town’s legacy as the former “Sock Capital of the World.” This guided industrial heritage tour takes visitors through preserved textile machinery, historic exhibits, and hands-on displays that explain how hosiery was manufactured at massive scale. Ideal for families, history enthusiasts, and students, the experience highlights the people, machines, and innovation that shaped Fort Payne’s economy for decades.
Why it’s special:
This isn’t a recreated exhibit—it’s a preserved industrial story told through original equipment and real worker narratives. Visitors gain rare insight into how textile factories powered an entire town and influenced American clothing production.

History & Story of Fort Payne Hosiery Museum

Fort Payne became a textile powerhouse in the early 20th century, eventually earning the nickname “Sock Capital of the World” as hosiery mills dominated the local economy. At its peak, more than half of the socks worn in the United States were produced in Fort Payne. The Hosiery Museum was established to preserve this heritage, showcasing the machines, techniques, and labor that defined generations of local workers and entrepreneurs.

What You’ll See & Do on the Fort Payne Hosiery Museum Factory Tour

• View historic sock knitting and looping machines

• Learn how hosiery was produced from yarn to finished sock

• Explore exhibits on mill life, labor history, and local businesses

• See demonstrations of textile equipment when available

• Learn how Fort Payne’s mills impacted national clothing supply

• Explore rotating exhibits and educational displays

Hands-On Elements: Interactive exhibits and machine demonstrations during select visits.
Photo/Video Policy: Photography allowed throughout the museum.
Souvenirs & Extras: Gift shop with books, local memorabilia, and hosiery-themed items.

Pricing of Fort Payne Hosiery Museum Factory Tour

• Museum admission required

• Adult price: $5 per adult

• Discounted rates available for seniors, students, and groups

Visiting information

Visits typically last 45–60 minutes and are offered as self-guided or guided experiences, depending on staffing and group size. The museum is suitable for all ages and is wheelchair accessible. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Museum working hours are Tuesday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM.

Nearby

• Downtown Fort Payne

• Little River Canyon National Preserve

• DeSoto State Park

FAQs About Visiting the Fort Payne Hosiery Museum Tour

Do I need to book a tour in advance?
Advance booking is recommended for groups, while individual visitors can typically walk in during open hours.

Are the machines still operational?
Some machines are operational for demonstrations, while others are preserved for display.

Is the museum suitable for children?
Yes, the exhibits are family-friendly and educational for school-aged children.

How long should I plan to spend at the museum?
Most visitors spend about an hour exploring the exhibits and displays.

Does the museum explain why the industry declined?
Yes, exhibits address globalization, automation, and economic changes that affected the hosiery industry.