The New International Encyclopædia/Bessemer (Alabama)

BES′SEMER. A city in Jefferson County, Ala., 11 miles southwest of Birmingham, on the Louisville and Nashville, the Southern, and other railroads (Map: Alabama, C 2). Iron and coal mines are in the vicinity, and the city is noted for the number and variety of its works devoted to the production of iron and steel in various forms. The manufacture of fire-brick is another important industry. Bessemer is governed by a mayor, holding office for two years, and a city council, elected on a general ticket. Population, in 1890, 4544; in 1900, 6358.