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The Sherrod family was one of the most influential families in the region during the 19th century. Benjamin Sherrod was a wealthy planter that had moved to Northern Alabama from North Carolina, and had subsequently acquired a number of plantations. Although the older Benjamin Sherrod resided at the nearby Cotton Garden plantation near Courtland, Alabama, his son and grandson would occupy the Pond Spring property (modernly known as Wheeler).
The Sherrod Home (primary log structure) was built in the 1830's by Felix Sherrod, son of Colonel Benjamin Sherrod.
The founder's grandson, Ben, would marry Daniella Jones, daughter of nearby plantation owner, Richard Jones. Widowed after only a short time, Daniella would inherit Pond Spring and later remarry -- this time to a young former Confederate cavalrymen named Joseph Wheeler (although they met during the War, they would not marry until 1866).
While presiding over the property, the Sherrods would make astounding improvements to the area. The story of the Tuscumbia, Courtland, and Decatur Railway is a superb example of the entrepreneurship and leadership they brought to this region.
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