Established pioneer settlers as early as 1836 but officially created in April of 1887.

Incorporated as a city in 1896.

Origin of name is linked to the biblical character in the bible in the book of Ruth.

The post office was established around 1886 -1887.

First families to settle in the area were Miller, Sturgus, Phillip, Sparks, and Watson.

One of the most important people who helped shape the community was W.W. “Billy” Sparks. He gave the community free land to build businesses, the first public school, the first Baptist Church, and cemetery.

An early doctor to the area was John B Sparks. He started his practice in 1886 but only lived about 2 years. He was replaced by Dr. William L. Noel whose son, W.E. Noel, also became a doctor. The father and son team practiced together in the same office.

The first school was established in 1879. Boaz High School was opened on July 16, 1894, located on the present  Snead Campus. The school moved to the Methodist conference in 1898 and became known as the Boaz Academy.

The first sizable industry in the area was the Boaz Cotton Oil Company opened in 1902. It was incorporated by John H. Snead, president, W.E. Snead, Secretary of State/Treasurer, and R.R. McClesky, manager. After several years of operation under this management, the owners decided to sell the mill. The mill was destroyed by fire after the new owners occupied the building and was rebuilt in 1924.