A County Older Than the State – Autauga County

Created in 1818 by an act of Alabama Territorial Legislature. Autauga Indians lived on the creek from which the county takes its name. Autaugas were members of the Alibamo tribe. They sent many warriors to resist Andrew Jackson's invasion in the Creek War. This county was part of the territory ceded by the Creeks in the Treaty of Ft. Jackson in 1814. Prattville has been the county seat since 1868. Earlier seats include: Jackson's Mill, Washington, Kingston.

Albert J. Pickett

(1810-1858) Scholar, planter, and trader, Alabama's first historian lived on the plantation nearby. From traders and Indians he gathered materials for his authentic history of early Alabama and the Southeast.

Alibamo Indians

Alabama was named for this tribe which lived along the Alabama River. About 1702 the French found them settled here. The Treaty of Ft. Jackson forced them to move east of the Coosa River in 1814.

Buena Vista, Montgomery-Janes-Wittaker Home

(circa 1830) This antebellum plantation house was completed by Capt. William Montgomery, a contemporary of Prattville's founder, Daniel Pratt. This "Deep South" architecture reflects the Federal style with the later addition of a Colonial Revival facade that includes a portico with Ionic Columns and a cast ironwork balcony. Interesting features of this structure are the delicately crafted fanlights over the front entrance and in the gable ends. A circular staircase spiraling 24 feet highlights the interior along with the elaborate plaster cornice moldings and spectacular ceiling medallions. The home is presently owned by the Union Camp Corporation and is maintained by the Autauga County Heritage Association. Buena Vista was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974.

Daniel Pratt Cemetery

Final resting place of early Alabama industrialist Daniel Pratt, 1799-1873, and wife Ester Ticknor Pratt, 1803-1875. He was from New Hampshire and she, Connecticut. Married 1827 at Fortville, Jones County, Georgia. The former carpenter's apprentice practiced his craft in Milledgeville, GA, where he gained skill in building and design. In 1832 Pratt came to Alabama to build cotton gins. Ester encouraged Pratt to remain in Alabama in order for him to establish a manufacturing complex and the village of Prattville, founded 1839. In 1847 Pratt was the recipient of the University of Alabama's first honorary degree. His design strongly influenced the 1851 rebuilding of the State Capitol. Pratt served as a legislator during the Civil War period.

Daniel Pratt Historic District

Listed on the National Register 1984. Marker placed by Historic Prattville Redevelopment Authority and Autauga County Heritage Association for the City of Prattville.

George Cooke

Southern itinerant painter was born in Maryland in 1793; married Maria Heath of Virginia in 1815. His wide range of work included landscapes, portraits, and religious and historical subjects. Many of his works, including "Interior of St. Peter's- Rome," are owned by the University of Georgia. Cooke studied in Europe, 1826-1831, where he met poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, a lifelong friend. Cooke's 1849 death occurred in New Orleans, he was buried here near the Pratt gallery which has displayed his art as a tribute to his life and work.

Indian Springs Post Office

Location of considerable community activity in the early nineteenth-century Autauga County.

Line 32° 28' North Latitude

Northern Boundary of: British West Florida, 1764-83; Spanish West Florida, 1783-95; Mississippi Territory, 1798-1804; Washington County, 1800-12; Clarke County, 1812-15. Southern Boundary of: British Illinois, 1764-83; United States, 1783-95. This line fixed in 1764 by the British king across present Alabama-Mississippi. France had ceded area to Britain in 1763.

Mulbry Grove Cottage McWilliams-Smith-Rice House

Built circa 1840s by A.K. McWilliams, this story and one-half Federal-style raised cottage with Greek Revival elements was the residence of Amos Smith, who named the town of Prattville. Occupied for many years by George L. and Abbie Holt Smith, the house remained in the hands of their descendants until 1995. Charles Rice, a nephew by marriage of George and Abbie Smith's son, Frederick D. Smith, donated it to the Autauga County Heritage Association and the City of Prattville for use as a museum. This antebellum home is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as inclusive in the Daniel Pratt Historic District.

Old Autauga County Courthouse

1870 The county's third courthouse was used until 1906. George Littlefield Smith, an early citizen of Prattville, designed and built the Italianate-style structure. Earlier county seats were Washington, then Kingston.

Old Plank Road

Circa 1840's The plank road was constructed of large pine logs, sawed lengthwise and laid round-side down. Daniel Pratt built the road for public benefit and to provide transportation from the Pratt Cotton Gin Factory to Washington on the Alabama River. Over four-miles long, the road cost between eight- and ten-thousand dollars to construct. Cotton gins from Pratt's factory were shipped all over the globe. Under the name "Continental Eagle," this factory remains the largest cotton gin manufacturer in the world.

Pratt Gin Mill

Once the world's largest plant manufacturing cotton gins. Founded 1833 by Daniel Pratt, the greatest industrialist of Alabama prior to 1860. Pratt's many industries were of great aid to Confederacy during Northern blockade.

Pratt Homesite

Circa 1842 Daniel Pratt, Prattville's founding father, constructed an imposing home and garden within a quarter-mile of this site on Autauga Creek, near his industrial complex. The large home was designed and erected by Pratt himself, a noted architect/builder. The white frame house featured New England architectural elements characteristic of Pratt's style and incroporated a narrow, two-story portico and balcony. Pratt also added an art gallery to the home displaying paintings by George Cooke, a southern artist supported by Pratt. The grape vineyard on the hillside behind the house provided wine for entertaining the Pratt home. Erected during the 1999 Daniel Pratt "Alabama Year of Industry" Celebration in Honor of Daniel Pratt's 200th Birthday.

Prattville Male and Female Academy Site

The 1859 Italianate-style brick structure was built by Daniel Pratt. The bell which hung in the belfry above the second floor now may be seen in the school yard on Washington Street. In April 1861 the Prattville Dragoons mustered here before departing for encampment and were presented a silk flag by the young women of the Academy. In 1927 the original building was replaced by the present structure, one of several in Alabama built on the same plan. The architect is unknown but the design has been attributed to Frank Lockwood. Reverse Sidney Lanier 1842-1881 The poet and musician, born in Macon, Georgia, was Academy principal in 1867-68. He married Mary H. Day of Macon in December 1867. In Prattville, they lived at the Mims Hotel and later in Dr. S.P. Smith's home. Following a brief legal career in Georgia, Lanier became first flutist in 1873 with the Peabody Orchestra in Baltimore and in 1879 was appointed as lecturer in English Literature at Johns Hopkins University. He wrote the words for the American Centennial Cantata and his poetry includes, "The Marshes of Glynn" and "Song of the Chattahoochee." The poet's experiments with musical sound in verse were a significant literary contribution. Lanier died at the age of 39 from the tuberculosis he had contracted as an imprisoned Confederate soldier during the Civil War. He was buried in Greenmount Cemetery in Baltimore.

Spanish West Florida, 1764-83

Colony's north boundary crossed present-day Alabama-Mississippi at this point on 32° 28' by edict of the British king. Colony extended south to the Gulf. France had ceded area in 1763. Spain invaded and seized area in 1780. Britain ceded to Spain in 1783. Spain ceded part to U.S. in 1795.

Thomas Hill House

Site of first Court after Autauga became a County Union Baptist Meeting House 1830s forerunner of First Baptist Church The above sites were located within ½ mile radius of this spot.

A County Older Than the State–Baldwin County

Third oldest county in Alabama. Created in 1809 while still part of Mississippi Territory. Named for Abraham Baldwin (1754-1807), founder of the University of Georgia, delegate to the Constitutional Convention, member of Congress, 1789-1807. This county once lay west of the Tombigbee River; but, after series of boundary changes, it now lies east of the Mobile and Alabama Rivers. County seat at Bay Minette since 1901; earlier seats at McIntosh Bluff, Blakely, and Daphne. It has long been a center of conflicting claims: by Spain, France, and England; by royal governors of Florida, Louisiana, Carolina, Georgia, and West Florida until the Mississippi Territory formed in 1798 and from it, the Alabama Territory in 1817. In struggle for control of the Southeast, many armies have camped in this area: 1528–Narvez, Spanish conquistador 1588–DeLuna, Spanish colonizer 1719–Bienville, French colonizer 1780–Galvez, Spanish conqueror 1813–Red Eagle, Indian revolter 1814–Jackson, American defender 1815–Packenham, British invader 1864–Maury, Confederate defender 1865–Canby, Federal invader.

Confederate Rest Cemetery

The Grand Hotel and the Gunnison House served as a hospital for wounded Confederate soldiers from the Battle of Vicksberg during the Civil War. The Confederate Rest Cemetery commemorates more than 300 Confederate soldiers who died while in the hospital. The original tract of seven acres included markers erected to the Unknown Confederate Dead. The records of the soldiers were kept in the hotel until a fire in 1869, when the identities of those buried in Confederate Rest were lost.

Ellicot's Stone

Erected April 9th, 1799 Marks 1st Southern Boundary of the United States and the Mississippi Territory created in 1798 900 feet East Stone marked 31° North Latitude separating the U.S. & Spanish Florida. This line of demarcation ran from the Mississippi east, along the 31° parallel to the Chattahoochie River, thence down that river to the mouth of the Flint River, thence on a line to the headwaters of the St. Mary's River, thence down that river to the Atlantic Ocean. Major Andrew Ellicott, appointed by George Washington as U.S. Commissioner to survey the boundary as defined in the Treaty of San Lorenzo (1795), was engaged in this expedition from 1796-1800. Esteban Minor was appointed Commissioner on the Spanish side. In 1803, the Ellicott Stone was selected as the Initial Point to begin the U.S. Public Land Surveys which control land boundaries in southern Alabama & Mississippi (St. Stephens Meridian).

Fort Bowyer

Built during War of 1812. 1803 United States claimed Mobile and the bay as part of Louisiana Purchase. 1813 On order of President Madison, this point seized from Spain by U.S. Regulars under Gen. James Wilkinson and militia under Col. John Bowyer. This act extended Mississippi Territory to Bay area. Fort Bowyer, a wooden fort, was built here. 1814 British with Indian allies attacked Fort by land and sea. After three days of fierce assault, the British ship Hermes was sunk; the enemy withdrew to friendly Spanish port of Pensacola. 1815 After Battle of New Orleans, British under Gen. Pakenham attacked here with 500 men from land and 38 war ships. Maj. Lawrence, U.S.A. surrendered with 360 men on the third day. Since peace treaty had already been signed, British retained Fort Bowyer only a few weeks. Americans again occupied the Fort. 1819 work begun on construction of brick fort. 1822 Fort greatly strengthened as urged by President James Monroe. Later renamed Fort Morgan.

Fort Morgan

1833 This fort replaced Fort Bowyer. Built on the star-shaped design of Michelangelo, it is one of the finest examples of military architecture in the New World. 1861 Seized by Alabama troops on order of Governor Moore. 1861-1864 Strengthened and garrisoned by Confederates guarding the pass against Federal blockading fleet. Guns of fort protected blockade-runners in and out of Mobile Bay. 1864 Admiral Farragut, U.S.N., forcing passage into bay, landed 3000 men. After heavy bombardment by Federal fleet, the interior of Fort lay in smoldering ruins. The garrison surrendered next afternoon. 1865 General Canby U.S.A. landed nearby with 32,500 troops and supplies. He moved up east shore of bay to join 13,200 men from Pensacola and laid siege to defenses of Mobile. 1898 During War with Spain the Fort was strengthened and modernized. 1946 Congress deeded the Fort and 400 acres to Alabama for use as State Park.

Fort Mims Massacre

Here in the Creek Indian War (1813-14) took place the most brutal massacre in American history. Indians took the fort with heavy losses, and then killed all but about 36 of some 550 in the fort. The Creeks had been armed by British at Pensacola in this phase of War of 1812.

Kennedy Mill, C. 1811

Site of one of Alabama's first sawmills. In 1811, Joshua Kennedy engaged Jesse Ember to build two water-powered sawmills, convertible to grist mills, for a total of $1400. The mills were operated by Kennedy through 1820; were burned twice, once by Indians. The mill dam and site were later used by the Bryne Brothers, and then by Hastic & Silver Co. until 1906, when they were abandoned.

The Mound Line

(Ellicott Line) Mile Mound #216 located 1200 feet East Surveyed in 1799 to mark the 31° North Latitude, this line charted the first southern boundary of the United States, separating the U.S. from Spanish Florida. The line was marked at one-mile intervals by earthen mounds approximately fifteen-feet square and three-feet high with a charred lighter-pine post at the center, hence the name Mound Line. Jointly surveyed by Major Andrew Ellicott, U.S. Commissioner, and Esteban Minor, Spanish Commissioner, to determine boundaries as agreed in the Treaty of San Lorenzo in 1795. The line began at the Mississippi River, ran east along 31° North Latitude to the Chattahoochie River, thence eventually to the Atlantic Ocean. Stockton was divided by this line, with some residents living in the United States and some in Spanish Florida. Although Stockton became a "border town," U.S. law generally prevailed in the area.

Noble Leslie DeVotie

First Alabama soldier to die in the Civil War. Drowned February 12, 1861, while on duty as chaplain of the Alabama troops here. Before enlisting, he was the pastor of Selma Baptist Church. He was 23 at time of death. Noble Leslie DeVotie–First Alabama soldier to lose life in Civil War. DeVotie graduated in 1856 from University of Alabama; Presbyterian Theological Seminary at Princeton in 1859. In 1856 at the University of Alabama, he was chief founder of Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity, the only national social fraternity founded in the Deep South. (Located at Fort Morgan)

School of Organic Education

On this site, a significant educational experiment was launched by Marietta Johnson, who founded the School of Organic Education in 1907. Believing that children should be motivated by natural free development rather than by competition, she did away with examinations and concentrated on the growth of the whole person. In 1909, the Single Tax Corporation provided this 10-acre plot. John Dewey, whose progressive education principles were shared by Johnson, visited the school in 1913. The school reached its zenith during the 1920's. The City of Fairhope acquired the campus in 1987 and leased it to Faulkner State Junior College. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1988.

Eufaula

Barbour County was incorporated on December 19, 1857. Bluff city on the Chattahoochee River. Lower Creek village of the Eufaula Indians antedating 1733. Early white settlers began moving into the village called Yufala in 1823. Irwinton was chartered in 1832, and was renamed Eufaula in 1843. Since it was a hub of a prosperous plantation region with thriving river trade, many antebellum homes remain as signs of its wealth and culture. After becoming an inland port in 1963, industries began locating here.

Bibb Naval Furnaces Brierfield Furnaces

The principal iron producer for the Confederate foundry at Selma, where naval guns and ironclads were made. 1865–Furnaces destroyed by Wilson's Raiders, U.S.A. 1866–Furnaces rebuilt and operated by Gen. Gorgas, former Ordnance Chief, C.S.A.

Ebenezer Church

April 1, 1865–A cavalry engagement here among fiercest of the Civil War. To defend arsenal of Selma, Forrest (Confederate flag) charged with 1500 into Wilson (U.S. flag), moving south with 7500. Forrest was seeking to delay Wilson pending the arrival of scattered (Confederate flag) units. Forrest, involved in heavy fighting to inspire his men, suffered a saber wound, but killed opponent. Swollen streams and intercepted orders blocked aid for Forrest and forced his retreat. (Located on Alabama Highway 189)

Haysop Baptist Church

In the Lord's Service At this Location Since Summer 1830 Rededicated With Our Prayers In Its 150th Year

A County Older Than the State – Blount County

Created Feb. 7, 1818 by Alabama Territorial Legislature from lands ceded by the Creek Indian Nation. Named for the Tennessee Governor W. G. Blount, who sent militia under Andrew Jackson to punish the Creeks for Fort Mims massacre. Jackson fought and won the Creek War. Creeks gave up half of their lands in Treaty of Ft. Jackson, 1814. Some of Jackson's men were first settlers of Blount. County seat moved here in 1889.

Battle Royal

May 1, 1863–Nathan Bedford Forrest attacked Colonel Streight's column as it crossed Locust's swift waters, causing the Federal troops to make tremendous exertions to complete the movement, contributing thereby to Streight's eventual surrender of his entire command to Forrest some forty hours later and seventy-five miles from Battle Royal. (Located on Alabama Highway 26 at Royal near Blountsville)

Blount Springs

Famous Health Resort from 1843-1914. Here fashionable ladies and gentlemen of the South vacationed with their families.

Blountsville

1820-1889–Seat of Blount County, a county older than the State. Named for Tennessee Governor W. G. Blount who sent Andrew Jackson to aid Alabama settlers in the Creek Indian War, 1812-1814. Indian Chief Bear Meat lived here at the crossing of old Indian trading paths. 1816–Tennesseans began trading post here and called the village Bear Meat Cabin. 1820–Name changed to Blountsville and made county seat. 1819–County seat moved to Oneonta.

Champion Mines

John Hanby came in 1817 and found a rich seam of brown iron ore. Named Champion in 1882 when Henry DeBardeleben & James Sloss bought land and brought L & N Railroad causing county seat to be moved from Blountsville to Oneonta in 1889. Most ore was mined by Shook and Fletcher 1925-1967 from Champion & Taits Gap mines under E. N. Vandergrift, superintendent. Ore was shipped to Woodward, T.C.I. & Sloss furnaces in Birmingham and Republic in Gadsden.

Ebenezer Hearn 1794-1862

Methodist Missionary. First minister assigned to Alabama Territory by Tennessee Conference. Hearn preached his first sermon two blocks west at Bear Meat Cabin (present Bountsville), April 18, 1818. He later organized churches in Shelby, Saint Clair, Jefferson, Tuscaloosa, and Cotaco (present Morgan) counties; this is the beginning of Methodism in central Alabama.

Exploit of Murphree Sisters

Incident of May 1, 1863 during Streight (Union flag)–Forrest (Confederate flag) Campaign. Three prowling Union soldiers invaded the home of sisters-in-law Celia and Winnie Mae Murphree taking food and drink and killing two colts. When soldiers fell asleep, these two young girls took rifles and marched the soldiers to the headquarters of General Forrest, bivouacked at Royal Crossing on Warrior River. (Located on Alabama Highway 26 at Royal near Blountsville)

Federal Raid

May 1, 1863, 1 mile south of marker. General N. B. Forrest captured a wagon train and supplies of Colonel Streight's raiders. Forrest continued his relentless pursuit eastward toward final capture of Streight.

First Baptist Missionary Church

1875 The Macedonia Baptist Church, located between the communities of Midway and Mt. Coney, was contructed by freedmen after the American Civil War, replacing the brush arbors used by the area's antebellum slaves as sites for religious worship. Four seperate congregations grew out of the original church: Antioch Baptist Church; Oak Grove Baptist Church; Mt. Coney Baptist Church; and Second Baptist Church of Midway. First organized in 1875, Second Baptist was built on a one-acre site officially deeded to the church by Taylor N. Cox and wife, M.C. Cox, on April 9, 1885. The original architecture was of the front gable with central tower type. Changes included additional rooms and the enclosing of the vestibule. Church founders included Warren Williams, John Curry, Alfred Boxer Sr., Ed Curry, Aaron Hamilton, Bob Walker, Aaron Jordan, Jack Christian, and Susie Christian, with Donna Pruitt serving as first secretary. Rev. J.H. Smith was pastor in 1910 when the church's name was changed to First Baptist Missionary Church. In 1938, its building began to be used as a site for classes and commencement programs for old Merritt Junior High School. During the 1960s, First Baptist was an important site for African American voter registration and other Civil Rights-related activities. The church also played a significant role in the development of the Mt. Hebron Baptist Convention and the Missionary Baptist Association. As the only black Baptist church in Midway, First Baptist has been the site for conversions, marriages, funerals, religious conventions, and community events throughout its history. Placed on the Alabama Register of Landmarks and Heritage, December 4, 1992.

Fitzpatrick United Methodist Church

(The Church of the Seven Sisters) 1858 Lacking an established church nearby, pioneer families of the Fitzpatrick community into the mid-19th century took turns hosting worship services in their homes on Sunday mornings. "The Church of the Seven Sisters" was established in 1858 by seven women of the community – Mrs. Phillips Bernard Baldwin (Martha Ann Thompson), Mrs. David Graves Fitzpatrick (Sara Ann Hooks), Mrs. John Campbell (Catherine Celia Hooks) Mrs. William Cicero Hufham (Nancy Henry Gholston), Mrs. Gordon Sanford Bunkley (Lucinda Morris Keene), Mrs. John William Templeton Reid (Celia Julia Fitzpatrick) and Mrs. Robert F. Ligon. Three of the "sisters" were Methodist, two were Baptist, one was Presbyterian, and one an Episcopalian, so it was founded as a Methodist Church. Albert G. Wray deeded one-and-one-half acres for the original building for one dollar. After the Montgomery and Eufaula railroad was built through Fitzpatrick in the 1870s, the church building was moved here from its nearby site. Placed on the Alabama Register of Landmarks and Heritage, 1978.

Indian Treaty Boundary Line

The treaty of Fort Jackson on August 9,1814, by Major General Andrew Jackson on behalf of the President of the United States of America and the Chiefs, Deputies and Warriors of the Creek Nation, established a boundary line between the Mississippi Territory and the Creek Nation. The line began a point ten miles from the mouth of the Ofucshee Creek directly to the mouth of the Summochico Creek on the Chatahouchie River. The Creek Treaty of Washington, signed on March 24, 1832, ceded the Indian Boundary Line ran across present-day Bullock County from northeast of Mitchell Station, Alabama, to southeast of Pine Grove, Alabama.

Log Cabin Museum

Early settlers of this area cleared land and built their first homes of logs in the early 1830's. This cabin was built by Reuben Rice Kirkland (1829-1915) about 1850. He and his first wife had ten children while living in the log home. At one time an additional bedroom and chimney were on the right side, and the back porch was closed in for cooking and eating. A small log kitchen stood a few feet from the back and was later converted to a smoke house. The milk house beside the well was on stilts to protect butter and milk from animals. In 1981, the Bullock County Historical Society moved the cabin into Union Springs from its original site at Stills Cross Roads in southern Bullock County and restored it as a museum. --------------------Reverse----------------------

Old City Cemetery

(The Confederate Cemetery) Micajah Norfleet Eley donated land in 1849 for the Baptist Church and an adjoining public cemetery. The oldest cemetery in Union Springs, it served the city for 35 years. The Confederate Monument at the center of the cemetery was unveiled at the intersection of Prairie and Hardaway Streets on March 29, 1895 by the Ladies Memorial Association. In 1973, it was moved to its present location. Locally known as the Confederate Cemetery, it includes the tombstones of some twenty-two Confederate soldiers. Below the Confederate soldiers' grave sites is a marker which reads, "Union Prisoners of War, 1861-1865, Victims of Plague."

Midway Baptist Church

Organized July 28, 1852 Midway, a part of Barbour County in the mid-19th century, was also known as Five Points, a small community of a handful of dwellings, two stores, and a Methodist church of logs. In this Methodist church, Joel Willis, J.M. Thornton, Robert G. Hall, M.B. Johnston, W.J. Coleman, and Lorenzo Faulk met in the summer of 1852 to organize the Baptist Church of Five Points. Articles of Faith and Decorum were approved August 31 and Joel Sims was called as the first pastor. By April 1855, the Five Points church was being referred to in its own records as the Baptist Church of Midway. The southwest corner of Feagin's field was selected as a building site in December 1852 and, in February 1853, a frame structure with glass windows, but no steeple, was dedicated. A steeple and bell were added to the building in 1859 and gas lamps replaced candles in 1869. In 1872 the Church was rebuilt with the original materials at hand. Renovations in 1902 and 1930 added stained glass windows, Sunday School rooms, restrooms, and a kitchen but the structure has retained some of its original building materials and rests upon its original site. The Church has been actively associated with other congregations since its beginnings in the Salem Association of Barbour County to the Bullock Centennial Association of the present. It has been associated with the Baptist State Convention and the Southern Baptist Convention since early in its history.

Mt. Hilliard Methodist Church

Organized 1835. Founded by settlers from Virginia, Georgia, and Carolinas. Building erected 1856. It was the central feature of the village of Mount Hilliard. Named in honor of Henry W. Hilliard–who debated William L. Yancey in the 1850's. Revivals held at church inspired ministers who went west to establish churches and colleges in Texas. Marker erected by Friends of Mt. Hilliard.

Old Merritt School, Midway Community Center

Margaret Elizabeth Merritt of Midway sold two acres for $5 to the state of Alabama in 1921 as a site for an elementary school for African-American children. Built in 1922 with matching Rosenwald funds, the Midway Colored Public School featured oak and pine construction and two classrooms divided by a partition. The building is one of the few surviving of the more than 5,000 rural black schools built with contributions from the Julius Rosenwald Fund. Enlarged twice, then renovated in 1978, it is now used for community activities. Added to the Alabama Register of Landmarks and Heritage, November 2, 1990 and to the National Register of Historic Places, February 20, 1998.

St. James C. M. E. Church

Railroad Street Midway, Alabama St. James Christian Methodist Episcopal Church was founded by Reverend Jack McMillan, a former slave of Midway's Daniel McMillan. Initially meeting outdoors under a brush arbor, ex-slaves and their children constructed a wood-frame church building soon after this lot was purchased in December 1882. A storm subsequently damaged the building which was rebuilt in 1896. Gable-roofed, the structure's original steeple church bell was enclosed in a main entrance enclosed. Placed on the Alabama Register of the Landmarks and Heritage, December 19, 1991.

Samuel Sellers Cemetery

Samuel Sellers (1788-1857) of North Carolina arrived with his large family at Three Notch Road on January 29, 1835. Here, in what was then the Missouri Beat, Pike County, the first post office in the area was established, 2.5 miles west of present-day Perote, Bullock County. Sellers served as Postmaster between 1846-1850. Sellers' original home was located on land near this cemetery. Placed on the Alabama Register of Landmarks and Heritage by the Alabama Historical Commission, November 2, 1976.

Sardis Baptist Church, Cemetery, and School

Side One Settlers from the Edgefield District, South Carolina, organized the Sardis Baptist Church on June 10, 1837. The first building, a log cabin, was constructed in 1841 after John M. and his wife Amy Youngblood Dozier deeded four and one-half acres to the church for a building and cemetery. The present building, constructed in the 1850s, is an exceptionally fine example of rural antebellum church architecture of Greek Revival style. Relatively unaltered since construction, its four columns support a full entablature and low-pitched roof. Each of the two primary entrances has double-paneled doors trimmed with unadorned molding, and each side of the building has four tall, shuttered, 18-light windows. The building was repaired in 1940-41 and 1992-93. As membership declined, Sunday afternoon services were conducted by visiting Methodist ministers from Union Springs. The church became inactive in the early 1950s, but was the setting for a wedding in 1993. Added to the Alabama Register of Landmarks and Heritage in 1992, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2001. Sardis Baptist Church, Cemetery, and School Side Two In the cemetery, the oldest tombstone bears the name of Moses E. Martin, died May 18, 1848. Part of the cemetery nearest the church served the Negro community during the early years. As the need arose for more space, William Andrew Martin and his wife Nancy Strom Martin, who had bought the adjoining land from the Doziers in 1860, allowed the church to extend the cemetery southward onto their property. Sardis School, a community school, was located on the church property across the highway from the church on the corner of Highway 223 and County Road 22. Newspaper articles indicate the school was operating in 1861 and 1870. The old Sardis School building was subsequently moved east on County Road 22, where it became, as it remains today, the living room of the Livingston Paulk home. In 1867, the Buena Vista Masonic Lodge #169 was located just north of the church property.

A County Older Than the State – Butler County

Created in1819 by Act of Alabama Territorial Legislature from lands ceded by the Creek Indian Nation by the Treaty of Fort Jackson, 1814. Named for Captain William Butler, soldier of Creek Indian War, 1813-14, early settler killed in Creek Uprising, 1818. Early settlers from Georgia and South Carolina came by Federal Roads built by U.S. Army. County seat first at Fort Dale in 1819, here at Greenville since 1821. Butler County–Flow of settlers was checked in 1818 by Indian revolt against Fort Jackson treaty. Indians committed Ogly, Butler massacres; attacked settlers, drove off livestock. Settlers fled to Forts Bibb, Dale, Gary. With the Indians driven east of Coosa River, settlers poured into area in 1819. In 1821 county seat was moved here. The town was then called Buttsville in honor of Capt. Samuel Butts, a South Carolinian killed in 1814 at Battle of Calabee in Macon County. In 1822 the name changed to Greenville. (Located at the Courthouse in Greenville)

Butler Massacre

Creek Indians, led by Savannah Jack, attacked a well-armed party of settlers carrying dispatches to Fort Dale. After this second massacre in 7 days, settlers sought refuge in forts and stockades.

City Park

The Park was developed as a joint effort of the Father Ryan chapter of the United Daughters of the Confederacy with the backing of the city government. The United Methodist Church provided the Park site. The sixteen-foot marble statue of a Confederate soldier was erected in 1903. The Park has been maintained by the city with many local citizens and groups helping to make improvements through the years. --------------------Reverse----------------------

Greenville Public School--City Hall

The two-story brick, "Greenville Public School" was built in 1897 on the site where City Hall stands today in Greenville. When its upper story was partially destroyed by fire in 1921, the schol was remodeled into a grammar school. This, too, burned and the buiding was demolished in 1928. The construction of Greenville City Hall was completed in 1936-37.

Creek Confederacy

The Creeks, a confederacy of Indian tribes, used this area as hunting lands. In 1814 these lands ceded by Treaty of Fort Jackson. In 1819 the first Alabama Legislature created Butler County from part of these lands.

Fort Dale

5 miles west of marker. Built in 1818 by the famous Indian scout and guide, Colonel Sam Dale. A stage stop, on Federal Road, from Fort Mitchell on Chattahoochee to Lower Tombigbee settlements. County seat of Butler 1819.

Gary's Stockade

7 miles from marker. Built in 1818 by Thomas Gary as protection from the Indians. Settlers, indignant at the fee charged by Gary, built Fort Dale five miles west of this marker.

Ogly Massacre

Two frontier families were tomahawked, killed, and scalped by Creek Indians, March 13, 1818. This is one of several such raids on frontier families after Indians lost their lands.

Old Depot

--1910 The Depot, part of the West Commerce Street Historic District, highlights the role that the railroad transportation system played in making Greenville a major regional trade center. For many years this was the sole shipping point for a six-county area of south-central Alabama. It is one of the few remaining brick and stucco depot buildings remaining in south Alabama. The Depot was reconstructed in 1924 after being damaged by high winds, then was restored in 1991.

Site of Fort Bibb

Built in 1818 by settlers as refuge from marauding Creek Indians, who resented the loss of their land by the Treaty of Fort Jackson in 1814.

West Commerce Street Historic District

The completion of the railroad in the late 1850s brought this District into being. The District grew into a major trade center between Montgomery and Mobile. The capital accumulated from this trade allowed the construction of brick commercial buildings, most of them completed by 1890. The downtown area was revitalized in the spring of 1997.

10th Alabama Volunteers–Army of Northern Virginia, C.S.A.

This regiment took part for four years in major battles of the Virginia theater. It served with distinction for dash and courage, suffering heavy casualties. Officers regiment's organization June 4, 1861, at Montgomery, Alabama: Colonel John H. Forney, Jacksonville; Lieutenant Colonel James B. Martin, Jacksonville; Major Taul Bradford, Talladega. Company A: Captain John H. Caldwell, Saint Clair County. Company B: Captain Alburto Martin, Jefferson County. Company C: Captain Rufus W. Cobb, Shelby County. Company D: Captain Franklin Woodruff, Calhoun County. Company E: Captain John T. Woodward, Talladega County. Company F: Captain James D. Truse, Saint Clair County. Company G: Captain William Henry Forney, Calhoun County. Company. H: Captain Woodford R. Hanna, Calhoun County. Company I: Captain Abner A. Huges, DeKalb County. Company K: Captain J. C. McKenzie, Talladega County. Among officers of regiment killed in action: Colonel John J. Woodward, Lieutenant Colonels James B. Martin and James E. Shelley, Captains Pickens and W. Black, George P. Brown, Henry N. Coleman, Walter Cook, Robert W. Cowan, William Lee, Richard C. Ragan, George C. Whatley. Disbanded at Appomattox, Va., April, 1865, by order of General Robert E. Lee. (Located in Jacksonville)

Governor Thomas E. Kilby

1865 - 1943 Outstanding local industrialist as President, Kilby Steel Company; Chairman, Board of Directors, Alabama Pipe Company; President, City National and Anniston National Banks. Served as Mayor of Anniston (1905-09); state Senator (1911-15); Lieutenant Governor (1915-19); Governor of Alabama (1919-23). His administration as Governor of Alabama notable for sound business principles, for prison reform, for advancement and expansion of charitable institutions, and for constitutional amendments which provided state bond issues for highway and bridge development and for building the State Docks in Mobile. Governor Kilby was a member of Grace Episcopal Church and a member of the vestry. His interment is on the hill, near fence, at Highland Cemetery.

Grace Episcopal Church

Called "A poem of cedar and stone," its history is intimately related to that of Anniston. Town Founders, Daniel Tyler and Samuel Noble, inspired its conception, funded its construction and caused the Woodstock Iron Company to donate the land on which it was built. George Upjohn, Architect, and Master Stonemason, William Jewell, used native pink sandstone and Tennessee knotty cedar to emulate Solomon's Temple. The Gothic Revival edifice, the oldest church in town, was organized on April 8, 1881, built in 1882-5, and consecrated by Bishop Richard H. Wilmer on May 19, 1886. Its first service was conducted on Christmas Eve, 1885.

Jacksonville–First County Seat

1833-99. Town first called Drayton. Renamed in 1834 to honor President Andrew Jackson. Seat moved to Anniston in 1899. Calhoun County originally was Benton County, named for Colonel T. H. Benton, Creek War officer, later U.S. Senator from Missouri. Renamed in 1858 for John C. Calhoun, Champion of South in U.S. Senate. Benton's views by then unpopular in South.

John Horace Forney

1829-1902. Major General, C.S.A. A graduate of West Point, he resigned from U.S. Army to volunteer services to the State of Alabama. Ably lead Confederate forces at Manassas, Pensacola, Vicksburg, Mobile, and Texas.

John Tyler Morgan

1824-1907. Lawyer, Soldier, Senator. Lived here in 1838. 1862-65: Colonel of 51st Alabama Cavalry, which was raised by him in this county. 1863-65: Brigadier General C.S.A. with Wheeler's Cavalry. 1876-1907: United States Senator. Distinguished Statesman of Alabama. (Located in Jacksonville)

Joseph William Burke

1835-1900. Lawyer, Industrialist, Patriot. Brigadier General, U.S.A., General Burke helped rebuild Alabama's mining and manufacturing interests after the Civil War. He helped establish the Catholic Church at Jacksonville. His home, "Bellevue," occupied the present site of Jacksonville State College. (Located in Jacksonville)

Ladiga Calvary Skirmish

October 28, 1864. Last fighting between armies of Hood and Sherman. Here Ferguson turned back Kilpatrick's larger force. These two armies fought all summer from Chattanooga to Atlanta, west to here. To split the South, Sherman turned and led Union forces in March to Sea. Hood withdrew to reoccupy Tennessee, fighting the battles of Franklin and Nashville.

Major John Pelham

Born here September 7, 1838. Commanded Horse Artillery of Northern Virginia, C.S.A. Killed at Kelly's Fort, Virginia, March 17, 1863. Styled "The Gallant Pelham" by Robert E. Lee. (Located in Anniston)

Major John Pelham

1838-1863. "The Gallant Pelham" as called by Robert E. Lee. Commanded Artillery, Army of Northern Virginia. Cited for conspicuous valor many times. Killed in action in Virginia.

Parker Memorial Baptist Church

On July 3, 1887, a congregation of 45 people met at the Opera House on Noble Street to organize a new church. Originally called Second Baptist Church, the name soon was changed to Twelfth Street Baptist Church. In 1889, it became Parker Memorial Baptist Church in memory of Mrs. Cornelia A. Parker, whose husband gave the money for a new building that was dedicated in March of 1891. The mission was and continues to be "Ministering to the World . . . Beginning at Our Own Front Door."

Site of Oxford College

1867-1900. Important in latter 19th century by educating boys and girls of area. Land and two-story brick building provided by sponsoring citizens. Headed by John H. Dodson from founding until 1900, when he became state superintendent of education. Among its noted graduates were state superintendents of education J. W. Abercrombie and H. C. Gunnels. (Located in Oxford)

Tallasseehatchee

Creek Indian War 1813-14, November 3, 1813. General John Coffee, commanding 900 Tennessee Volunteers, surrounded the Indians nearby and killed some 200 warriors. This was the first American victory of the war. It avenged the earlier massacre of 517 at Ft. Mims by Indians.

Thomas C. Hindman

1828-1868. The Arkansas Congressman and General had lived here (1833-1844). Veteran of the War with Mexico. Elected to U.S. Congress in 1858 and 1860. Served in Trans-Mississippi Department C.S.A. as Brigadier General from 1861-1862. Served with the Army of Tennessee as Major General from 1862-65. (Located in Jacksonville)

Chambers County

Created December 18, 1832, from Creek Indian cession. Named for Dr. Henry C. Chambers of Madison County, member of Constitutional Convention on 1819, legislature of 1819, elected U.S. Senator 1825 but died en route to Washington. County government organized 1833 by Judge James Thompson of Jefferson County. First officers were: Nathaniel Greer, Sheriff; William House, Clerk Circuit Court; Joseph J. Williams, Clerk County Court; Booker Lawson, John Wood, William Fannin, John A. Hurst, Commissioners Roads and Revenue. Permanent court site selected by Commissioners Thomas C. Russell, James Taylor, and Capt. Baxter Taylor. A log courthouse was built here 1833, replaced by brick structure 1837, and used until present courthouse erected 1899. LaFayette, county seat, was formerly known as Chambersville and Chambers Courthouse (Located at courthouse)

Muscogee Indians

Creek Indian villages nearby were affiliated with either Upper or Lower Confederacies of the Creek Nation. In colonial times Spain, France, and England contended for this section. Indian title ceded in 1832.

The Lafayette Presbyterian Church

Organized 1835. This structure was built by early settlers from Virginia, Tennessee, and the Carolinas, and subsequently modified. The original building has stood since 1836. Union Sunday School began here in 1891. Many eminent ministers have filled the pulpit.

West Point Manufacturing Company

Cornerstones of Chattahoochee Manufacturing Company, Langdale Alabama, and Alabama & Georgia Manufacturing Company, River View, Alabama, were laid on August 1, 1866. Mills used Chattahoochee River water power for operation of spindles and looms. Planters and businessmen of Chambers County, Alabama, and West Point, Georgia, invested the capital for these ventures, providing a new way of life to a war-stricken people. In 1880, West Point Manufacturing Company was organized from the Chattahoochee mill. The business genius, enterprise, and vision of LaFayette Lanier (1845-1910), president 1896-1910, were largely responsible for the industrial and civic development of "The Valley." (Located on U.S. Highway 29 in Langdale)

Forrest Defeats Streight

May 3, 1863. Here General Forrest with about 500 men forced the surrender of Colonel Streight's army of about 1500 men. The surrender climaxed a series of running battles from Muscle Shoals. This was one of the most brilliant campaigns of General Forrest, master of stratagem.

Walnut Creek United Methodist Church

Established 1820. Arthur Love, a charter member, was first pastor. Organized as a Methodist Episcopal Church. Became Methodist Protestant, 1828. Changed to Methodist Church, 1939. Affiliated with United Methodist, 1968. In the original church built of logs, Judge James Q. Smith, Montgomery, in 1869, presided at first court held in Baker Co. (now Chilton). Circa 1875, a frame building replaced log church. Present brick building erected 1935. Walnut Creek United Methodist Church has always maintained a progressive Sunday School.

First Oil Well In Alabama

On January 2, 1944, the State of Alabama granted Hunt Oil Company a permit to drill the A.R. Jackson Well No. 1 at this location near Gilbertown. Hunt Oil Company was owned by the famous oil man, H.L. Hunt of Dallas, Texas. Drilling commenced on January 10, 1944, and was completed approximately one month later. The well struck oil at a depth of 2,580 feet in fractured Selma chalk. The discovery of this well led to the creation of the State Oil and Gas Board of Alabama in 1945, and to the development and growth of the petroleum industry in the State.

Choctaw Corner

4 miles from marker. This was the northeast corner of the land first ceded by Indians to whites in the Alabama area. By the 1765 treaty, Choctaws gave to England the area from here to the Gulf. This put the British between the Choctaws and Creeks.

Kimbell House

Isham Kimbell (1797-1881) was the only family member to survive the Kimbell-James Massacre near Fort Sinquefield, during Creek Indian War in 1813. Elected Sheriff of Clarke County and in 1833 Clerk of Circuit Court, serving several terms. He was a successful merchant until his death in 1881. Married Martha T. Carney of Carney's Bluff. Both buried at Pine Crest Cemetery, Jackson. Built circa 1848 by Isham Kimbell on Lower Commerce Street. Given to city by Woodson family and moved to this site in 1977 by Jackson Historical Committee, successors to Jackson Bi-Centennial Committee, with a grant from the M. W. Smith, Jr., Foundation. Restored with funds from public subscription, local civic organizations, and the City of Jackson.

Kimbell-James Massacre

September 1, 1813. Creek Indian War, 1813-14. Part of War of 1812. British used Pensacola as base to arm and incite Indians against the United States. Prophet Francis led Indians in this raid on Kimbell home. They killed and scalped 12 of 14 (two survivors left for dead); pillaged house, and killed livestock.

Clairmont Springs

Formerly Jenkins Springs. A 19th century watering place and mineral springs resort. 1832: Ceded to United States by Creek Indians before being moved to West in 1836. 1841: Bought by William P. Chilton, later Chief Justice of Alabama. 1873: Bought by John T. Morgan, general in C.S.A., long a United States Senator.

Creek Indians

The area, home of Creek Indians, was held by them until 1832 when they were forced to move west of Mississippi River. Remains of aboriginal life show an earlier people lived here before the Creeks.

Boll Weevil Monument

December 11, 1919 In Profound Appreciation Of the Boll Weevil And what it has done As the Herald of Prosperity This Monument was Erected By the Citizens of Enterprise, Coffee County, Alabama.

Clintonville Academy

Chartered as Clintonville Male and Female Academy by Alabama Legislature January 11, 1860. Building constructed 1860, occupied 1861. The first school in Coffee County to teach beyond the sixth grade. Clintonville, for many years, was recognized as the cultural and educational center of the county. This area was first known as Indigo Head. In 1845, one of the first voting precincts in the county was located here. Clintonville post-office established June 16, 1849. Some of the pioneer families were Fleming, Brooks, Hutchinson, Gunter, Sawyer, Goynes, Watson, Carmichael, Moates, Warren, Brock, Harding, Wilks, Peacock, and Helms.

Enterprise Academy

Founded 1904 Beloved leader and principal of this institution, later known as Carroll Street School, was William M. Donald (1870-1941). His philosophy of education was: "Apply yourself. Excellence is attained through self-discipline and hard work. Learn the rules. Gain knowledge. Knowledge is power. No one can take it away from you." Erected 1979 by: Delta Sigma Beta Chapter–Alpha Phi Chi Sorority, Citizens of Enterprise, Coffee County, Alabama.

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Earliest Church in Elba

A congregation of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South existed in Elba even before Rev. Robert Shaw Rabb was assigned as the first minister to the Elba Circuit on December 15, 1853. This site was purchased in 1909 and the Church officially opened on February 12, 1911. Large panels of stained glass windows are a memorial to Confederate soldiers from Coffee County. The historic Church bell was cast on February 21, 1908 in Hillsboro, Ohio.

Historic Court Square

The first Coffee County Courthouse was at Wellborn and burned in 1851. This site was given by John B. Simmo when Elba was selected the county seat, polling 58 more votes than Indigo Head (Clintonville) in a county election on October 5, 1852. The first building erected on this site was a two-story frame structure burned by Ward's Raiders on September 3, 1863. A new courthouse was completed in 1867. This building served Coffee County until 1881 and was sold at an auction. A third building completed in 1882 was enlarged in 1889. Failing to meet the needs of Coffee County it was replaced by the present courthouse in 1903. Listed in National Register of Historic Places.

Holloway Tabernacle Church

Established 1912 The first congregational meetings were held in a small former dwelling house. In 1915 this congregation joined with the Alabama District of The Assemblies of God. First pastors were: Rev. Elijah Spence and Rev. Wayne Tomlin. First deacons were: G. W. Grimes, Jim Holloway, A. D. Grimes and Dan Stinson. Charter members were: Joe and Mary T. Holloway, George and Anna Grimes, Dan and Georgan Stinson, John W. Holloway, Dewey P. Holloway, Jim Holloway, Andrew and Mary Bell Grimes, Melinda J. Kennedy, Francis Anderson, Oscar and Mattie Weeks, Ellen Wooten and Alice Grimes.

Mount Pleasant Missionary Baptist Church

1874: Founded near Double Bridges Creek (LeCompte Place) three miles southwest of the present location. First pastor: J. W. Bullard. Charter members: Mr. and Mrs. Tom Mathis, Mr. and Mrs. Tom Barbee, Mr. and Mrs. Jack Nichols, Mr. and Mrs. Joe Jones, Mr. Bob Howell, Miss Lizzie Gilbert, and Mr. Lige Cobb. "I was glad when they said unto me, let us go into the house of the Lord." Psalm 122:1

Providence Baptist Church

Organized May 26, 1849 First Pastor: Ruben E. Brown First Deacons: William P. Bryan, Jesse Pouncey, Jonas P. Bell Charter Members: William Green, David Kelly, Kader Powell, Elizabeth Kelly, Ardilla Green, Winny Lacy, Bill Fowler, Nancy Fowler. Bellwood, Cool Springs, County Line, Daleville, Shady Grove, Midway, New Hope, Shiloh, and Mount Moriah were formed under the sponsorship of Providence Church. "I was glad when they said unto me, let us go into the house of the Lord." Psalm 122:1

Rawls Hotel

Original two-story brick structure built 1903 by Japheth Rawls, developer of some of the earliest turpentine plants in Coffee County. Building remodeled 1928 and three-story wings added by Jesse P. Rawls, founder of the first electric power system in Enterprise. Hotel was center for business and social gatherings until its closing in early 1970's. Listed on National Register of Historic Places 1980.

Wellborn

Approximately two miles east. The First Seat of Justice for Coffee County, Alabama. Named for General William Wellborn, an Alabama Commander during the Creek Indian War of 1836-37. Under the Act of December 29, 1841, establishing Coffee County, Commissioners Britton T. Atkinson, James Claxton, Thomas Cole, John B. Cruise, and Amos Wiggins were named to secure a "seat of justice" not exceeding 160 acres, not more than six miles from the center of the county, and to erect thereon a court house and jail and lay off the remaining lots for sale. The court house burned in March, 1851. In 1852, by election, Elba was chosen as permanent location for the court house. Wellborn The first seat of justice for Coffee County was located approximately 500 yards southeast of this site. The community was named for Gen. William Wellborn, an Alabama commander during the Creek Indian War of 1836-37. Under the Act of December 29, 1841 establishing Coffee County, Commissioners Britton T. Atkinson, James Claxton, Thomas Cole, John B. Cruise, and Amos Wiggins were named to secure a "seat of justice" not exceeding 100 acres, and not more than six miles from the center of the county, and erect thereon a courthouse and jail, and lay off the remaining land into lots for sale. The Court House burned March 1851. By election, Elba was chosen as the permanent location for the Court House in 1852.

Chickasaw Indian Agency

Was moved by Benjamin Smith from Pontotoc, Mississippi in 1825 to this site, known as Bennkhinah, where it remained until 1837. Bennkhinnah Post Office, established at the Agency in 1829, was named Newport in 1837. In 1856 with D. C. Oates as postmaster, it was moved to Cherokee, Alabama. Benjamin Reynolds replaced Smith as Indian Agent in 1830. From this Agency he worked with Indian leaders arranging for the removal of the Chickasaw nation from Alabama and Mississippi in 1837.

Civil War Skirmishes at Barton

In 1862-63, Confederate forces fought several sharp skirmishes near Barton as they sought to repel or delay Union expeditions invading the Tennessee Valley from the Federal stronghold at Corinth, Mississippi.

Civil War Skirmish at the Barton Cemetery

Bullet-marked tombstones in this cemetery show evidence of a brisk skirmish here October 26, 1863, when Gen. P.J. Osterhaus' first division of Sherman's Corps came under fire from Gen. S.D. Lee's Confederate troop. CSA artillery on a hill near a frame church (now Zion No. 1) opened fire at dawn and Union artillery replied from the cemetery. CSA forces retreated to Little Bear Creek. USA forces briefly occupied Tuscumbia, then retreated to Cherokee and abandoned attempt to advance along the railroad.

St. John's Episcopal Church

This congregation was organized in the 1830s, with services being held in private homes and the Methodist meeting house. The present building was first used in October 1852 and completed the following year. During the Civil War, Union troops occupied the church and destroyed some of the parish records. St. John's is an early example of the "Carpenter's Gothic" style popular for many Episcopal churches during the mid-19th century. Damaged by a tornado in 1874, the church afterward was refurbished and strengthened with iron tie-rods spanning the nave. Memorial windows also were installed. Concrete buttresses were added in 1956. A tall spire originally topped the belltower.

The Old Brick Presbyterian Church

1820 Old Brick Church began in 1820 as the Mt. Pleasant Cumberland Presbyterian Church and met in a frame building which burned in 1824. The present building has undergone few changes since its construction in 1828 when the congregation was officially chartered. In 1906 the congregation joined with what became the United Presbyterian Church in the U.S.A. It officially took its present name in 1961. In 1983 Old Brick became part of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). Sunday services have been conducted regularly since 1820, except during the Civil War.

Tuscumbia Railroad – First Railroad West of Alleghenies

1832: Began here; completed to Decatur, 45 miles east, in 1834. Cotton shipped by this line around nearby Muscle Shoals, then by boat down Tennessee-Mississippi River to world markets. 1851: Expanded to Memphis-Charleston Railroad. A vital line in the Civil War, it changed hands several times. 1898: Became part of Southern Railway.

Village One

In 1918, during World War I, the U.S. Government built this unique village of 85 bungalows, school, and officers barracks to house personnel at nearby Nitrate Plant #1. Prefabricated and standard size materials were used in construction along with red tile roofs and stucco exteriors. Streets were laid out in an unusual "Liberty Bell" design. Reverse Village One The village was owned by TVA from 1933-1949. Its employees occupied the houses and their children attended a progressive school in the barracks building 1934-1941. TVA sold the houses at auction and gave and the school and parks to the City of Sheffield in 1949.

William Winston Home

Construction on the home which became the center building of Deshler High School was begun in 1824 by Clark T. Barton, William Winston purchased and completed the Georgian-style dwelling in 1833. The largest remaining antebellum house in Tuscumbia, it features a winding staircase, eight fireplaces, and ten original closets along with an inscription on the cellar wall written during the Union occupation saying: "It is a damn shame to destroy this mansion." Original log kitchen placed at N.W. rear corner to avoid having fire too close to the house. Listed on the National Register of Historic places in 1982. House and property purchased by the city of Tuscumbia in 1948 for site of new Deshler campus, relocating from property bequeathed by Major David Deshler (from his Main St. residence, 3 blocks north) memorializing his son, Brig. Gen. James Deshler, C.S.A., killed leading charge at Battle of Chickamauga, Sept. 20, 1863. William Winston (1789-1857)-father of Gov. John Anthony Winston; grandfather of Maud Lindsey, famed educator and author of children's books; father-in-law of Robert Burns, only foreign-born governor of Alabama. Winston family cemetery located approximately one mile N.W. of the house.

Yellow Fever Epidemic

1878 Responsible for taking 31 lives in Tuscumbia. Citizens Relief Committee included: F. H. Aydlett, H. M. Finley, J. L. Davis, James Jackson Chmm., J. W. Rand, Jr., P. A. Ross, F. W. Ross, J. N. Sampson, Sec., and C. A. Womble. This committee, together with volunteers, both white and black–assisted by trained nurses brought from Memphis, Tennessee–nursed the sick, carried supplies, prepared the bodies, dug graves, and buried the dead. Doctors serving around the clock: Robert T. Abernathy, Samuel J. Cooper, William C. Cross, William Desprez (who gave his life), and E. P. Rand. The 31 Victims of Yellow Fever who died in Tuscumbia in 1878 included: Crabtree Belcher, Mrs. Amy Boldman, Anna C. Christian, Mr. Clark, W. A. Clark, DeWitt Cooper, Dr. William Desprez, Samuel Finley, Mrs. W. A. Gilbert, Mrs. Bettie Halpine, Miss Bartie Jones, Mrs. W. H. Jones, L. King, F. Manush and wife, Tom Morton, Alexander Newsome, Sandy Osborne, Edward Prout, Mrs. G. T. Rather, Mrs. F. A. Ross, Helen Smoot, Mrs. T. L. Smoot, Mr. and Mrs. W. L. Stamps, Robert Ventress, Mervyn Warren, Charles Williams, Mrs. Yohnka and child, William Young.

The Alabama Baptist Children's Home Site

The Louise Short Baptist Widows' and Orphans' Home, consisting of a 10-room brick residence and related buildings on 80 acres of land fronted on Main Street, Evergreen, for more than 1/4 mile. It was established by the Alabama Baptist State Convention in 1891 and was chartered by the Legislature of Alabama in the same year. The idea had been approved by the Alabama Baptist State Convention in 1863 as a haven for children of soldiers killed in the War Between the States. The Home opened on March 8, 1893, with the Reverend John W. Stewart as the first superintendent. For 30 years it served on this site. On June 14, 1923, it was removed to Troy, Alabama, and in 1938 was renamed The Alabama Baptist Children's Home.

Richard Thomas Baggett

March 30, 1817 - October 26, 1881 Richard Thomas Baggett was born and buried here on the Baggett family farm, NE 1/4 Section 4, Township 4 North, Range 10 East. According to early local histories, Richard, the son of pioneers Jesse Baggett and Zilla T. Godwin Baggett, was the first child born to white settlers in Conecuh County. Richard Baggett married Octavia Olivia Tippins and fathered four sons: James Augustus, Jesse Pinkney, George W., and Phillip Henry Baggett.

Lake Jackson

Andrew Jackson in Seminole War with an army of 1200 camped here in May 1818 en route westward from Fort Gadsden to subdue marauding Indians abetted by Spaniards at Pensacola. Jackson determined to seize Pensacola and thus altered the course of history on the continent. (Located on shore Lake Jackson in Florala)

New Providence Primitive Baptist Church Site

Constituted in 1833 about 1 mile northwest of this location with 10 charter members. The Church was admitted to the Conecuh River Baptist Association in November 1833. In 1863, the Church moved to this location on land bought from Benjamin Dorman where a building was erected. Services continued until August 1981, when the building was destroyed by arson.

Battle of Day's Gap

April 30, 1863. Here Gen. Forrest overtook larger force of Col. Streight. Forrest attacked three times. Streight fled toward Rome to destroy Confederate railroad.

Battle of Hog Mountain

April 30, 1863. Here Gen. Forrest overtook Col. Streight's raiders in hand-to-hand battle after dark. 3 horses short from under Forrest. Union force fled southward with Forrest in relentless pursuit.

Battleground

Named after a Civil War battle fought April 30, 1863, between Confederate troops commanded by General Nathan Bradford Forrest and Union troops commanded by Colonel Abel D. Streight. Confederates lost 50 to 75 men killed or wounded. Union lost 30 men. Shortly after the battle Union forces fled to Hog Mountain pursued by the Confederates.

Clarkson Covered Bridge

Sometimes called Legg Bridge. This 270 foot bridge was constructed in 1904, destroyed by a flood in 1921 and rebuilt the following year. The only remaining covered bridge in Cullman County, it was restored by the Cullman County Commission in 1975 as an American Revolution Bicentennial Project. Named to Register of Historic Places, June 25, 1974.

Cullman Railroad Depot

The Louisville and Nashville Railroad Company completed building this Mission Style depot in 1913. When the tracks were laid below ground level, it replaced Cullman's first station located on First Avenue at Third Street, SW. Passenger service was discontinued in 1968. This building then was used by CSX section crews until it was purchased by the City of Cullman, March 23, 1990. Restoration began in February, 1991, funded by donations from Cullman County Historical Society, citizens of Cullman County, and public grants. Added to the National Register of Historic Places, June 17, 1976.

Evangelical Protestant Church

The first church in the City of Cullman was established on this block of land donated by the North and South Railroad in February 1874. Lots 154, 155, 180 and 181 were granted to Henry Dietz, August Henning, and George Stoback as trustees of the Evangelical Protestant Church for the sole purpose of constructing a church building. Col. John Cullman, land agent, was a charter member of the church. The church building was made into a dwelling house after the congregation moved to a new location, 512 Second Avenue East, in 1881.

General Forrest's Pursuit and Union Colonel Streight's Defense

From Battle Ground (26 m.–NW) to capture at Lawrence (80 m.–East)–said to be greatest cavalry fight in modern warfare. It passed here May 1, 1863. (Located on U.S. 31 at Johnson's Crossing)

Sand Mountain Plateau

Thrifty German colonists, led by Col. John G. Cullman, in 1873 settled this thinly populated plateau. This section, previously thought unproductive, became famous for its diversified crops.

St. Johns Evangelical Protestant Church

The first church at the town site of Cullman. Founded May 1, 1874, at the beginning of the second year of settlement. An ethnic German church formed by immigrant families. Services held exclusively in the German language until 1932. In 1937, the Evangelical German churches merged with the Reformed churches and the national Evangelical and reformed denomination was established. St. John's became a part of the United Church of Christ in 1957.

Daleville

Originally called Dale Court House. County Seat of Dale County 1831-41. William Harper, Probate Judge. Dale County originally included: present Coffee County until 1841, present Geneva County until 1868, part of Houston County until 1903. Dale County named for General Sam Dale, foremost pioneer guide, scout, messenger, leader of settlers through Creek and Choctaw Nations of Southeast and Gulf Coast. General Dale, cautious and cool in emergencies, was the right arm of frontiersmen and settlers. He led Tombigbee troops in Creek War, 1813-14, was messenger of British invasion and defeat, 1814-15, led Alabama Territorial Militia in Seminole War, 1818, served in Alabama Legislature from Monroe County, 1819-30. (Located in Daleville)

Providence Baptist Church

Organized May 26, 1849 First Pastor: Ruben E. Brown. First Deacons: William P . Bryan, Jesse Pouncey, Jonas P. Bell. Charter Members: William Green, David Kelly, Kader Powell, Elizabeth Kelly, Ardilla Green, Winny Lacy, Bill Fowler, Nancy Fowler. Bellwood, Cool Springs, County Line, Daleville, Shady Grove, Midway, New Hope, Shiloh, and Mount Moriah were formed by members of the Providence Church. "I was glad when they said unto me, let us go into the house of the Lord." Psalms 122:1

Battle of Selma

April 2, 1865--On the day Richmond fell General Nathan Bedford Forrest, his men, home guards and civilians manned earthworks about this city. They were overwhelmed by veterans of General James H. Wilson who burned Confederate facilities and many homes. After a week of destruction Wilson raided on to Montgomery.

Cahawba

Site of Alabama's first permanent capital 1820-26. County seat Dallas County, 1820-1866. Confederate Prison during War Between States 1863-65. Located 5 1/2 miles south on Alabama and Cahawba Rivers.

Childers Chapel

Established circa 1819 as Childers Meeting House on land given by George Childers. Patent for the land was issued to George Childers March 16, 1819. This Methodist Church was later known as Childers Chapel. Church burned in 1842. Congregation rebuilt church in Valley Creek (Summerfield), construction beginning October 25, 1845. This site has continued as the burying ground for the Summerfield Methodist Church congregation and the early families of the Summerfield Community. The Church was originally a part of the Cahawba Circuit and was placed in the Montgomery District in 1837/38.

Edmund Winston Pettus - House Site

Edmund Winston Pettus, lawyer, general C.S.A., U.S. Senator, was born Limestone County, Alabama, 1821. Admitted to bar, 1842. Moved to Cahaba, 1858. Major, C.S.A., 1861. Brigadier General, 1863. U.S. Senator, 1897-1907. Resided here from 1866 until death, 1907. When in Senate, with John T. Morgan, Selma was home of both U.S. Senators from Alabama.

Live Oak Cemetery

East portion reserved for graveyard, 1829; west part purchased by City of Selma, 1877. Here are buried: William Rufus King, 1786-1853, Vice President of U.S. 1853. John Tyler Morgan, 1824-1907, U.S. Senator, Brig. Gen. C.S.A. Edmund Winston Pettus, 1821-1907, U.S. Senator, Brig. Gen. C.S.A. Nathaniel H.R. Dawson, 1829-1895, U.S. Commissioner of Education. William J. Hardee, 1815-1873, Lt. Gen. C.S.A., author "Hardee's Tactics."

Prosperity Cemetery

Prosperity Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church Cemetery is the resting place of many members of the church from 1846 until 1961. The Church was organized in 1822 by Isaac Grier. A church building stood on this site from 1844 until 1891, constructed on five acres of land donated by William Johnston. The cemetery includes the graves of two early pastors, Rev. James M. Young (1844-67) and Dr. James A. Lowry (1867-98). Dr. Lowry previously served as a Confederate chaplain. His is one of several veterans' graves in the cemetery, which also includes that of James Chisolm, who died June 16, 1864, as a result of wounds received at the Battle of Atlanta.

Selma Historic and Civic Building

Central Alabama Masonic Institute of Alabama acquired property, 1847, and erected building. Used as female academy. Confederate hospital during Civil War. Dallas County Courthouse on removal of county seat from Cahaba, 1866-1901. Presbyterian high school for boys early 1900's. Acquired by Vaughan Estate, 1904. Vaughan Memorial Hospital, in memory of Samuel Watkins Vaughan, MD, 1911-1960. 1969, under Mayor Joseph T. Smitherman, City of Selma purchased property. Dallas County and City restored original structure.

Summerfield Methodist Church

Organized before 1837, first under charge of Charles McLeod and next, Asbury H. Shanks. Contract for present building was let October 23, 1844; dedicated October 5, 1845. Greenberry Garrett was Presiding Elder of Summerfield District. Original building committee composed of Greenberry Garrett, A. H. Mitchell, T. B. Goldsby, John Paulling, George A. B. Walker. Original trustees were George Childers, Noel Pitts, John Paulling, David Mims. Here worshipped Bishop J. O. Andrew and other prominent Methodist leaders and educators. This church absorbed the congregation at Childers Chapel, south of this site, where a Medthodist congregation existed as early as 1824.

Sturdivant Hall

One of the finest examples of neo-classic architecture in the South; designed by Thomas Helm Lee for Edward T. Watts. Completed in 1853. Sold in 1864 to John M. Parkman, 1870 to Emile Gillman. Purchased in 1957 through a bequest from Robert Daniel Sturdivant and operated by the Sturdivant Museum Association.

Valley Creek Presbyterian Church

One of the state's first Presbyterian churches. Established in 1816 by eight families from Rocky River Presbyterian Church in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina. In 1859 this two-story brick building replaced original wooden structure. Sanctuary and former slave gallery are on second floor. In nearby cemetery lie heroes of Alabama's wars since 1776. (Located on Alabama Highway 22, 3 miles north of Selma)

William Rufus De Vane King

1786-1853 Native Sampson County, North Carolina. Admitted to bar, 1806. North Carolina House of Commons 1807-1809. U.S. Congressman 1811-1816. Secretary U.S. Legation Naples and St. Petersburg 1816-1818. Moved to Dallas County, Alabama, 1818. A founder of Selma; named city. Delegate Alabama Constitutional Convention 1819. U.S. Senator 1819-1844, 1848-1853. U.S. Minister to France 1844-1846. President pro tempore U.S. Senate 1836-1840, 1850-1852. Vice President of United States 1853.

Former Site of Battelle

Thriving iron ore and coal mining community of early 1900's Established by Colonel John Gordon Battelle Five miles north of Valley Head

Fort Payne's Fort

The fort, consisting of a log house and large stockade, was built in 1838 by order of General Winfield Scott, commander of military forces responsible for the removal of Cherokee Indians. Soldiers occupying the fort were commanded by Captain John C. Payne, for whom the fort was named. Indians in the DeKalb County area who refused to move westwards voluntarily were gathered and held in the stockade pending their forceful removal to the Indian territory. Chimney still standing on site of fort near the railroad at 4th Street S.E.

Fort Payne Opera House

Opened September1890. Built during local boom period. Converted into theatre during era of silent movies. Closed as a theatre in October 1935. Purchased by Landmarks of DeKalb County, Inc., 1969. Renovated, restored, and reopened to public in 1970. The oldest theatre in Alabama located in a building originally constructed as a theatre. Listed in the National Register of Historic Places and the National Register of 19th Century Theatres in America.

Indian Mound, Inn, and Church Site

Cheroke Indians first inhabited this mound site, subsequently settled by A.H. Lamar, a captian in the Seminole War and first constable (1836) of DeKalb County. Lamar and his Cherokee wife operated trading post and stage coach stop on site, selling the property to Alfred Collins, ca. 1842. Collins, for whom Collinsville was named, built home and operated inn on the stage coach line here between Rome and Guntersville. Daughter Sallie and her husband, G.W. Roberts, became owners in 1886. Collinsville Baptist Church purchased property in 1924, erecting building on site two yeras later.

Lebanon Courthouse

Lebanon Courthouse was constructed during the 1840s when Lebanon, the county seat of DeKalb County was a thriving community with inns, taverns, and government offices. This building, built for courthouse use, remained in use as a courthouse until 1876, when the stagecoaches serving Lebanon gave way to progress. The county seat was then moved to Fort Payne, were railway service was available. This marker was erected as a part of DeKalb 150 Sesquicentennial Celebration, 1836-1986.

Sequoyah

(1760-1843) Born in Tennessee, Sequoyah moved to Wills Town (DeKalb County, Alabama) area of the Cherokee Nation in 1818. Here, in 1821, he invented an 86 symbol alphabet providing the Cherokees with the only written Indian language in the United States.

Sequoyah

1760-1843. Nearby lived the inventor of written language of Cherokees. Nation adopted it, became only literate Indians with written language. (Sequoyah, maker Cherokee Alphabet)

Wills Town Mission

The mission was established in 1823 by the American Board of Missions to further education and Christianity among the Cherokee Indians. Mission operated until the Indian removal in 1838. Grave site of Reverend Ard Hoyt, first superintendent, marks the location of the mission near the corner of 38th Street and Godrey Avenue.

First Presbyterian Church Wetumpka Alabama

Founded 1836. Built, 1856, dedicated 1857, combining exterior Gothic style with Greek Revival interior. Original part designed as a rectangular block. Wings were added on eastern and western sides in the middle 1900's. At that time a choir rail replaced original balustraded corner section. The balcony and chandeliers are outstanding. The church has served its members continuously and has been used for civic and patriotic assemblies significant in Wetumpka's history. In 1861 it served as a departure point for the Wetumpka Light Guard upon enlistment in the Confederate Army. Entered in National Register, Historic Places 1976.

The Hank Williams / Kowaliga Cabin

1952 At this site stands the cabin where country music legend Hank Williams composed the song "Kaw-liga" in August, 1952. The song's title was derived from the name of a Creek Indian town located on the banks of the Kowaliga Creek until 1836. Hank's September 23, 1952 recording of "Kaw-liga" reached number one on the country music charts in 1953 and has since been recorded by numerous country and popular music artists. Built in 1946 by Darwin and Nell Dobbs, the cabin was restored to its original condition in 2001 by Russell Lands, Inc. as a tribute to Hank Williams and his music.

Tallassee Armory

Only Confederate armory not destroyed by Federal forces. Colonel Gorgas (Conf. Flag) ordnance chief, had carbine shop moved here into Tallassee Manufacturing Company mill in spring 1864 as war threatened Richmond, Virginia armory. War ended before plant neared goal of 6,000 carbines per year. In 1864 Rousseau's raid bypassed it–1865: forces under General Wilson (U.S. Flag) misled by faulty map, marched 10 miles east; threat of Forrest (Conf. Flag) barred their return. (Located in Tallassee)

Washington County

First county in Alabama. Northern boundary 32° 28', ran through this point. County extended south to 31°, present Florida line; from Jackson, Miss., to Columbus, Ga. Then in Mississippi Territory, it included 25,000 square miles. Since subdivided into counties; 29 in Alabama, 16 in Mississippi.

Wetumpka's Bridges

(side one) In 1834, the Wetumpka Toll Bridge Co. built the first of four bridges spanning the Coosa River at this site. It was destroyed in a flood in 1844. A second toll bridge was completed the same year by John Godwin whose slave, Horace King, designed and supervised construction of this covered bridge. Emancipated in 1846, King built numerous bridges in the South and his services were much in demand by the CSA during the Civil War. After the war, he was elected to the state legislature twice by the citizens of Russell Co. Toll charges for the new bridge were 5¢ for pedestrians or $1 per month for unlimited passage. Passage to church was free. Since the wagon gate closed at 9 PM, an extra charge of 25¢ was due the gatekeeper if he was called to open the gate. Wetumpka's Bridges (side two) Three lighted lanterns hanging from the rafters were the last things seen of the bridge as it washed away in the flood of March 1886. A ferry operated while an iron bridge was built by the Southern Bridge Co. of Birmingham in 1887. By 1927, bridge deterioration led to a joint $177,440 state-county project resulting in the construction of the fourth bridge in 1931. Denmark-native Edward Houk designed the graceful Bibb Graves Bridge, named for then-Governor Graves. The bridge became the picturesque centerpiece for the "City of Natural Beauty."

Wetumpka Impact Crater

The ridges located here are the remnants of a six-mile diameter circular feature created some 85 million years ago by an estimated 1,000-foot diameter asteroid. The area at the time of impact was a shallow sea. The ridges consist of a variety of metamorphic rocks and surround a central area comprised of large jumbled blocks of younger geologic strata. Drilling in the central area of the crater recovered fragments of rocks showing characteristic mineral alteration only associated with impact structures. The structure, although known for more than a century, was first identified as an impact crater in the 1970s.

Wetumpka Methodist Church

Organized 1837. Completed in 1854, this building was the third Methodist Church building erected in Wetumpka and served both black and white congregations. Transitional exterior and interior architecture features elegant simplicity of Greek revival styles. Interior plaster work is outstanding. Original nave provided space for 500 persons. Renovation in 1910 included more space for choir loft, installation of pipe organ, stained glass windows and pews to follow curve of chancel rail. In 1954 chandeliers were added and basement remodeled for Sunday School rooms. Chancel area enlarged again in 1972. Listed in National Register of Historic Landmarks 1972.

William Wyatt Bibb

1781-1820, First Governor of Alabama. Only governor of Alabama Territory 1817-1819. First Governor of state 1819-1820. Died in office after riding accident. Succeeded by brother, Thomas.

William Wyatt Bibb

First Governor of Alabama 1819-1820. Only governor of Alabama Territory 1817-1819. Born in Amelia County, Va., Oct. 2, 1781. In U.S. Congress from Georgia 1805-1813. Moved here from Elbert County, Ga., 1817. Buried in private cemetery near home. Succeeded by brother, Thomas Bibb, presiding officer of state senate.

Downing-Shofner School

East Brewton, 1906-1943 Dr. J. M. Shofner (1863-1926) founder, dedicated his life to–"Give boys and girls a chance." Dr. Elisha Downing–Humanitarian First building erected named in honor of Mrs. Esther Downing. Trustees–1906: J. M. Shofner, D. Gillis, J. E. Finley, W. W. Hinote, J. M. Davidson, J. F. Jones, James K. Kyser.

Ritz Theatre

The Ritz Theatre opened its doors on this site September 14, 1936, and for more than fifty (50) years prided itself as the "Hub of the Brewton Community." Between its first feature, "YOURS FOR THE ASKING," and its last, "CROCODILE DUNDEE," shown January 22, 1987, the Ritz served as stage for fashion shows, beauty pageants, dances, and various other community events. Stars of the "Grand Ole Opry" and "Hollywood" made live appearances at the Rtiz. The Ritz was the community's prime source of reliable news from the battle-front during World War II. With a seating capacity for 761, the Ritz was the place to be on Saturday afternoon for generations of children. This legacy of the Ritz Theatre has been perpetuated with the construction of this community message center in March 1996.

Site of Fort Crawford

Fort Crawford was established in 1816 by elements of the 7th U.S. Infantry under order from Major General Andrew Jackson. Purpose was to monitor Spanish activities in West Florida and curtail hostile Creek Indian activities. Named after Second Lieutenant Joel Crawford, the fort was occupied by units of the regular U.S. Infantry and the Alabama Territorial Militia. It was abandoned in 1819 after the United States purchased Florida from Spain and the Indian menace abated.

Site of Pollard

Located 1½ miles south, town of Pollard established in 1861 at juncture of Alabama & Florida and Mobile & Great Northern railroads. One of the largest military training camps of Confederacy located here during Civil War. Also site of major Confederate stores depot. Town suffered much destruction in Federal raids of December 1864 and March 1865. Served as first county seat of Escambia County from 1868 until 1883 when county government moved to Brewton.

Emma Samson

May 2, 1863. Here girl heroine led Forrest's men across Black Creek on way to capture Streight's raiders. This saved the railroad supplying Confederate Army of Tennessee.

North Alabama Conference

The North Alabama Conference of the United Methodist Church was organized on this site in the Methodist Episcopal Church South, of Gadsden, Alabama, November 16, 1870–Bishop Robert Paine, presiding. The Centennial Convocation of the Conference was held here November 16, 1970–Bishop W. Kenneth Goodson, presiding.

Cedar Creek Furnace

Erected 1840, 8 mi. north. Second producer of pig iron built in Alabama. Iron made here was shipped to Mobile for Mexican War ordnance; later to Selma and Rome for Confederate Arsenals. 1864 Furnaces destroyed by Federal Cavalry raiders under General Rousseau.

Jackson's Military Road

Built by Andrew Jackson, 1816-20. Shortened by 200 miles the route from Nashville to New Orleans. Provided much-needed road to Gulf for supply wagons and artillery. Built with U.S. funds and troops. Jackson's road served as model for 11 such roads built in 1820's. This road replaced narrow Indian trails. Lack of supply roads had hindered Jackson in Creek Indian War and campaigns against Spanish Florida, British at New Orleans.

A County Older Than the State – Greene County

Named for Revolutionary War hero, General Nathaniel Greene, who drove British from Southeast. Area explored by DeSoto, 1540. Claimed as French Louisiana, 1699. Ceded to England, 1763. Ceded by Choctaw Nation, 1816. Made a territorial county, 1819. Eutaw, county seat, is named for Greene's victory at Eutaw Springs, South Carolina.

Beulah Baptist Church

Organized February 23, 1833 Charter members were–Elizabeth Brooks, David S. Brooks, Thomas J. Drummond, Nancy Leatherwood, John Leopard, Albert M. Tandy, Matilda Tandy, Ralph Tandy, Luke Thornton, Sarah Thornton, Rev. Matthew Pickett Smith. The first building was of hewn logs but today, on the same property, are located the red brick sanctuary and educational rooms erected 1948. Rev. Matthew Pickett Smith served as pastor 1836-1881. The first Sunday School was organized 1877 with Thomas J. Nix serving as superintendent. Throughout the years, members have gone from this church to serve as leaders in various places.

First Presbyterian Church

Eutaw, Alabama. Erected 1851, D. B. Anthony Contractor. Organized by Tuscaloosa Presbytery in 1824 as Mesopotamia Presbyterian Church. John H. Gray first minister 1826-1836. Educational Building Erected 1959.

Pleasant Ridge Presbyterian Church

By appointment of Tuscaloosa Presbytery, Nov. 18, 1848 Rev. J. L. Kirkpatrick and Rev. C. A. Stillman organized a Presbyterian Church at Pleasant Ridge, Alabama. There were 13 charter members. Services were held in a home near site of present church. The first pastor, Rev. J. P. McMullen, served from 1855 until he was killed while serving the Confederacy at Resaca, Ga. 1864. The church building erected 1859, has been a blessing to all who have worshipped here through the years.

Saint John's Church (Episcopal)

Organized "in the Prairie" south of Greensboro in 1834 by the Rev. Caleb Ives, pioneer missionary to the old Southwest. Admitted to parish status in 1838 by the Rt. Rev. Jackson Kemper, Provisional Bishop of Alabama. First rector was the Rev. John Avery, D.D. Present building designed by Mr. Richard Upjohn, renowned American architect and founder of the American Institute of Architects. Erected in 1859 and moved across the Warrior River to its present location in 1878.

Spanish West Florida

Spain seized colony, 1780, from British during American Revolution. Ceded to Spain in 1783. 32 28 , northern boundary, crossed present Alabama-Mississippi River. In 1795 Spain ceded area to U.S. but kept Mobile and Pensacola.

Dr. Benjamin M. Dugger

, 1872-1956 Discoverer of antibiotic, Aureomycin Son of a beloved country doctor, he carried a dedicated spirit to the frontiers of science. Having won degrees at Alabama, Auburn, Missouri, Harvard, and Cornell, he taught at Cornell, Missouri, Wisconsin, completing his researches and discoveries at Lederle Laboratories. His discoveries opened a new era in medicine helping physicians save the lives of millions. Site of birthplace and boyhood home-300 yards.

Forrest's Railroad

Building of Selma, Marion & Memphis Railroad was completed to this point in 1870 during the presidency (1869-1874) of the distinguished Confederate cavalry leader, General Nathan Bedford Forrest. His fellow officer, Gen. E. W. Rucker, served as superintendent of construction. An extension to Akron was finished in 1882. This railroad is now part of the Southern Railway System. (Located at Greensboro)

Gayle-Tunstall House

Built in 1828-29 by John Gayle, sixth governor of Alabama. Birthplace of Amelia Gayle Gorgas, wife of Gen. Josiah Gorgas, Chief of Ordnance, CSA, mother of Wm. Crawford Gorgas, US Surgeon General who freed Canal Zone of yellow fever. For many years was the home of Hobson-Tunstall famliy; Wiley C. Tunstall, Alabama legislator for 39 years and twice Speaker of House. (Located in Greensboro)

Greene Springs School

1847-1884–2 miles–One of State's academies. Called "Rugby" of the South. It prepared exceptional number of Alabama leaders. Founded by Dr. Henry Tutwiler, one of State's foremost educators. Closed upon his death. One of the first schools to add study of science and government to the usual classics. (Located on Alabama Highway 60)

Greensboro Presbyterian Church

Organized 1823 by Rev. James Hillhouse of South Carolina with Patrick Norris and William Hilhouse, veterans of American Revolution, as founding elders. Original wooden structure replaced by brick building in 1841 under pastorate of Rev. Thomas Sydenham Witherspoon. Present building erected in 1859 when Rev. J. C. Mitchell was pastor. Old slave gallery may still be seen. (Located at Greensboro)

Hobson Bethel Methodist Church

Newbern Methodists held services in Presbyterian Church until 1884. Present site selected and church building completed in the fall of 1884. Cornerstone placed in northeast foundation. Fine, walnut altar rail is original and hand-hewn. Pulpit and chairs donated when church erected. Lumber used in construction of building hand-hewn and mortised. Pews and lighting system have been replaced. Services held on first Sunday monthly. Rev. J. Bancoft, presiding elder, and Rev. J.A. Moore, minister, called meeting of members in 1883 including the names: Hobson, Holcroft, Walker, Scott, Huggins, Moor, True, Sadler, Turpin. Building committee consisted of Mr. Will Sadler, Mr. E.B. Holcroft, and Mr. J.A. Moore. Mrs. Sallie L. Hobson granted privilege of naming church as she raised and donated largest amount of funds for construction.

Magnolia Grove

Birthplace, ancestral home of Richmond Pearson Hobson–1870-1937–Spanish-American War Hero. Admiral Hobson, as a naval officer, statesman, lecturer, and author, urged national preparedness; championed human welfare causes. Alabama made this home a state shrine to Admiral Hobson in 1943. House built in 1858 by Col. Isaac Groom. (Located in Greensboro)

Moundville

Site of Prehistoric Indian Village built by Indians of unknown tribe as a ceremonial center about 1200 to 1400 AD. Here are preserved ruins of their village, temple mounds, burials of their dead. Mound State Monument. (Located at Moundville)

Newbern Baptist Church

Church organized in 1848 by Rev. Thomas Chilton. Sanctuary stands as built in 1849 with original columns of solid poplar. Education building added in 1959. Baptist Historical Society has records of church's first 111 years on deposit in library of Howard College at Birmingham. Newbern Baptist Church–Organized in April, 1848 by the Rev. Thomas Chilton, moderator; John R. Hendon, clerk; John G. Huckabee, Wm. F. Hendon, John Dial, Gray Huckabee, Thomas H. Croom, R. S. Tinker, C. C. Huckabee, L. A. Seawell, Mary A. Paul, Martha Huckabee, G. A. Huckabee, Maria Hendon, Hannah Hendon, Maria P. Hendon, Susan Hendon, Martha Donna Hendon, Elizabeth Driver, Martha Croon, and Mary Ann Tinker. Town bell, 500 feet south of this marker, has called all Newbern congregations to worship services since 1868 and also served as town fire bell. (Located in Newbern)

Newbern Presbyterian Church

Organized 1844 by North Carolinians who settled area in 1830's. Built in 1848, church typifies rural church architecture of "Old South." Building stands in near-original form: hand-hewn lumber joined with wooden pegs. Early membership included slaves who sat on benches flanking pulpit. Church always without resident minister but has monthly service, active church life. Newbern Presbyterian Church–Organized November 16, 1844 under Presbytery of South Alabama by the Rev. Thomas Witherspoon and 21 charter members. Petition to Presbytery signed by T. A. Borden, Anne Borden, Wm. Ervin, Eliza Ervin, Mrs. Rebeccah Hanna, A. &. S. Hardin, Mrs. Martha Jenkins. Names of Croom, Tinker, Mendow, Pearce, and Huckabee also among charter members. Two women served on early Board of Elders contrary to Presbyterian rules of order. (Located in Newbern)

Old Erie

First county seat 1819-1839 of Greene County. This area of Hale since 1867. Town incorporated December 18, 1820, and had about 1,500 inhabitants a few years later. Floods and Yellow Fever forced removal of county seat to Eutaw. Town gradually deserted, and last remaining home (Dorroh) burned in 1933. The Greene County Gazette published here as early as 1823 by Thomas Eastin. Rev. James Monette, who preached first sermon in Greene County in 1818 at Troy (then Greensboro) moved to Erie in 1818. He died in 1834, and tombstone is here today. First county seat of Greene County, which then included what is now Hale. Incorporated in 1820, with Town Council composed of James A. Tolbert, Thomas H. Herndon, Francis L. Gaines, Durrett White, Anthony D. Kinnard, Howell L. Kennon and Hiram Shortridge. Among early families: Dorroh, Constantine, McAlpine, Lavergy, Moore, Brown, Edgerly, Bird, Melton, Monette, Hampton, Steele, Craig, Snedecor, Grant, Jennings, Kimbrough, Inge, Kennon, Murphy, Moody, Whitehead, Hobson, Williams, May, McGee, Phares.

Saint Paul's Episcopal Church

This parish established 1830. Third oldest in Alabama diocese. Church consecrated in 1843 by Leonidas Polk, Bishop of Louisiana, (later a Confederate general). Here Nicholas H. Cobbs was chosen first Bishop of Alabama in 1844. First vestrymen: Dr. Richard E. Meade, Dr. R. C. Randolph, Dr. R. W. Withers, J. Bell, J. B. Strickney, Dr. R. Inge, Frank Inge, William Murphy, Col. Samuel Pickens.

Southern University

Founded here in 1856 by the Methodist Church. Weathered War and Reconstruction to prosper in late 1800's. Moved to Birmingham in 1918 on merger with Birmingham College, founded 1898 by Methodists, to become Birmingham-Southern College.

The Alabama Baptist State Convention

October 28-29, 1823. Was founded here at Salem Church by 15 messengers from seven missionary societies. They met to promote missions, education and closer cooperation among Baptist churches in Alabama.

A County Older Than the State – Henry County

Created in 1819 by Alabama Territorial Legislature. Named for Patrick Henry of Virginia, colonial statesman and orator: "Give me liberty or give me death." This area ceded by Creek Indian Nation in 1814 under Treaty of Ft. Jackson. Had been part of Lower Creek Confederacy. Abbeville made county seat in 1833. Abbe an Indian name of nearby creek.

Henry County Training School

, Established 1914 Founded by Laura L. Ward. Building designed and constructed by Jim McCauley on land given by Glass Maybin. Classes began Sept., 1917. Principals who served school were: J. H. Jackson, W. R. Rosser, Felix Blackwood, Sr., and William B. Ward, Sr. First teachers were: Laura L. Ward, Bertha Matthews and Mattie Belle. School operated for 53 years until closed June 30, 1970. During this time it served as principal educational center for black citizens of Henry County, graduating a total of 1297 students.

Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church – East

Constituted to the glory of God by early settlers in 1859, in then Henry County, Ala. Originally with the West Florida Baptist Association, joined Columbia Baptist Association in 1887. First church built of logs. First members were Nathan Whiddon, Mary Whiddon, Elizabeth Stephens, Sarah Parker, A.B. Williams, Moses Parker, Aner M. Blackwell, Sarah Stapleton, Mary Parker. First deacons were Nathan Whiddon, A.B. Williams. Church became part of Houston Co. in 1903. Present church built in 1911, with improvements since added. Church cemetery began circa 1904, previous burials were in nearby church and family graveyards.

Bridgeport

Vital Memphis-Charleston railroad, "backbone of Confederacy," spanned Tennessee River here. Bridge burned several times, 1862-63. General Mitchell (U.S. Flag), occupying Huntsville after Battle of Shiloh, seized Bridgeport in April 1862 and held it until August. Federals recaptured town in July 1863 as Rosecrans (U.S. Flag) took Chattanooga (upriver). As end of usable railway from Nashville, town became key base of operations in U.S. victory at Chickamauga and lifting siege of Chattanooga. (Located in Bridgeport on U.S. Highway 72)

Decatur County

1821-1825 Created by an Act of the Legislature on December 7, 1821, Decatur County was comprised of portions of Madison and Jackson Counties. "Old Woodville," two miles north along County Highway 7, was designated as the County Seat. An 1823-'24 completed survey revealed that it did not contain the constitutionally required number of square miles. The county was abolished by an Act of the Legislature on December 28, 1825, and the territory was returned to Madison and Jackson Counties.

Robert Thomas Scott

, 1800-1863 Planter, tavern operator, newspaper editor, legislator, and land developer, he sought in vain to have the Jackson County Seat moved from Bellefront to the settlement that bore his name. After his death in 1863, his widow reached an agreement in 1868 with the county government whereby the site for the courthouse and jail was deeded to Jackson County on condition that Scottsboro become the county seat. Incorporated by the state legislature on January 20, 1870, the town became an important commercial center and shipping point on the Memphis and Charleston Railroad.

Sequoyah

1760-1843. Inventor of system of characters representing syllables in Cherokee language. This give them the only written Indian language. Adopted here at Sauta in 1822, Cherokees used new written language to print the Bible, hymns and a newspaper named Cherokee Phoenix.

A County Older Than the State – Jefferson County

Created by Alabama Territorial Legislature in 1819 from land of Creek Indian Nation ceded in 1814 by Treaty of Ft. Jackson. Named for Thomas Jefferson 1743-1828 author of Declaration of Independence founder of University of Virginia third President of the United States. Settled by soldiers who fought in Alabama with Andrew Jackson in Creek War, 1813-14. County seat at Elyton, 1821 to 1871: at Birmingham since 1871.

The Birmingham Public Library

Birmingham's first library was organized in 1886 and in 1891 became a subscription library for the general public. In 1908 the Birmingham Public Library Association established a free public library, and the City created an independent Library Board in 1913. For decades the library was housed in various locations including the old City Hall where it was destroyed by fire in 1925. Libraries throughout the U.S. sent books and local citizens contributed for a new building. It opened April 11, 1927, was peacefully desegregated in 1963, served as the main library until 1984, and was renovated and reopened in 1985 as the Linn-Henley Research Library. --------------------Reverse----------------------

The Linn-Henley Research Librar

y This four-story Neo-Classical structure, designed by architects Miller, Martin, & Lewis, was built of Indiana limestone in 1927. A model facility when completed, the library served as a cornerstone of Birmingham's cultural and educational development. The building was renovated in 1984 by architects Kidd, Plosser, & Sprague and renamed the Linn-Henley Research Library. Special collections housed here include extensive southern history resources, maps, and the city's first municipal archives. Significant interior features include murals and decorative ceilings painted and installed in the 1920s by nationally known artist Ezra Winter.

Cahaba Project "Slagheap Village"

A government project under President Franklin D. Roosevelt A total of 243 houses and 44 duplex units were constructed from 1936-1938 at an overall cost of $2,661,981.26. Cahaba residents rented from the government until 1947, when the houses and duplexes were sold to individuals at prices ranging from $4,400 to $9,000 each.

First Baptist Church of Trussville

Organized at Cahawba Baptist Church, 1821. Elder Sission Blythe, pastor. Anderson Robertson, Sherwood Holley, deacons. John Stovall, Jordan Williams, trustees. Members of Canaan (now Birmingham) Baptist Association since its beginning in 1833. This marker dedicated at the church's 140th Anniversary, July 16, 1961. (Located in Trussville)

Hosea Holcombe

1780-1841. "Alabama's first church historian." In 1840 he published his study, History of Rise and Progress of the Baptists in Alabama. Also an evangelist and missionary. In 1818 moved to Alabama from Carolinas, organizing five churches in vicinity. President of Alabama Baptist Convention 1833-38, he was delegated to write church history. Lack of cooperation led him to travel over state to get material for book. He died at Jonesboro home in 1841, buried in Sadler Cemetery 1 mile south. (Located Alabama Highway 150-4/10 miles southeast Bessemer)

Howard College

Liberal Arts–1842–founded at Marion by Baptist Church. 1887–moved to East Lake now part of Birmingham. 1957–moved to new campus here in Shades Valley. Civil War did not stop its classes. (Located on campus in Birmingham)

Howard College

(#2) In the valley to the north is the Georgian-Colonial campus of Howard College–Liberal arts institution founded in 1842 by Alabama Baptists–Alumni serve throughout the world. (Located on Shades Mt. on U.S. Highway 31)

Jefferson County Courthouses

Territorial legislature designated home of Maj. Moses Kelly (in Jones Valley) as site of first court in this area of Alabama, 1818. After creation of Jefferson County, 1819, court held at Carrolsville (Powderly) until county seat established at Elyton, 1820. County seat moved to Birmingham, 1873. Two story brick Courthouse completed 1875 on NE corner 3rd Ave. and 21st St., North. Replaced 1887 by elaborate three story structure which served county until 1931. Separate Bessemer Division of Circuit Court established 1915. Bessemer Courthouse completed 1920. Present courthouse completed 1931. Designed by Holabird and Root of Chicago. Constructed of reinforced concrete faced with granite and limestone. North Annex built 1964. Sculptured reliefs on west face depicting history of Jefferson County by Leo Friedlander. Murals in west foyer representing "Old South" and "New South" by John Norton. Bronze statues of Thomas Jefferson by Birmingham artist George Bridges.

Jefferson County Courthouse Site

The county seat of Jefferson County was moved from Elyton to Birmingham in 1873. On this site stood the first Courthouse in the City of Birmingham. The Italianate style structure was designed by architect W.K. Ball. Completed in 1875, the two-story red brick building cost $30,500. In 1887 it was condemned as unsafe, and a new Courthouse was planned.

Jefferson County Courthouse Site

In 1889 a second Jefferson County Courthouse was constructed on this site. Charles Wheelock and Sons of Birmingham and H. Wolters of Louisville were the architects. Charles Pearce of Indianapolis was contractor. Constructed in the Romanesque style, the four-story brick building had a central clock tower rising 180 feet. Total cost was $300,000. This Courthouse was built several blocks to the north. The structure was raised in 1937.

Jefferson Warriors

In honor of the men from Mt. Pinson who formed the "Jefferson Warriors" in mid-July, 1861. Marching to Huntsville, they were mustered into the Confederate army on August 12th as Company C of the Nineteenth Alabama Infantry Regiment under the command of Colonel Joseph Wheeler. Engaged in momentous battles at Shiloh, Murfreesboro, Chickamauga, Missionary Ridge, Atlanta, Nashville, and Bentonville, N.C., the 19th suffered such losses that only 76 members of this Regiment were present at the surrender in April, 1865.

Jordan Home

2834 Highland Avenue Dr. Mortimer Harvie Jordan and his wife, Florence E. Mudd, constructed their home between 1906 and 1908. After service in the Confederate army, Jordan studied medicine in Cincinnati and New York (under Alabama's famous gynecologist, Dr. J. Marion Sims). As a doctor in Jefferson County, he is especially remembered for his tireless work in the 1873 cholera epidemic. He served on the State Board of Health (1879-83), as president of the State Medical Association (1884), and as chair of material medical and therapeutics and clinical medicine in the Medical College of Alabama at Mobile (1886 for two terms). Jordan authorized numerous publications on surgery, epidemiology, and gynecology and read many papers on these subjects before medical association. Florence Mudd Jordan was the daughter of Judge William S. Mudd, builder of Arlington plantation. The Jordan home was sold in 1928 and was restored to its original condition in 1969. A fine example of neo-classic architecture, the house features a wide portico with four Ionic columns and elaborate detail work on the pediment.

The Linn-Henley Research Library

This four-story Neo-Classical structure, designed by architects Miller, Martin, & Lewis, was built of Indiana limestone in 1927. A model facility when completed, the library served as a cornerstone of Birmingham's cultural and educational development. The building was renovated in 1984 by architects Kidd, Plosser, & Sprague and renamed the Linn-Henley Research Library. Special collections housed here include extensive southern history resources, maps, and the city's first municipal archives. Significant interior features include murals and decorative ceilings painted and installed in the 1920s by nationally known artist Ezra Winter.

Birmingham-Southern College

Created in 1918 on this site by merger of two colleges; Southern University a Methodist college founded in 1856 at Greensboro. Birmingham College founded by Methodists as N. Alabama Conference College on this site in 1898.

Oxmoor Iron Furnaces

1863-1928 Fire blast furnace in Jefferson County erected near this site (1863) by Red Mountain Coal & Iron Co. Destroyed (1865) by Federal troops: rebuilt (1873) and second furnace added. Successful experimental run made in Furnace No. 2 (1876) using local coke and Red Mountain iron ore: this assured future growth of coal and iron industry in Birmingham area. Owned by a succession of companies, the furnaces were acquired by U.S. Steel Corp. (1907) and later dismantled (1928).

Roebuck Springs Historic District

Roebuck Springs was the first large residential suburb in Birmingham where planning and development were tied to the automobile, and the first community in the city associated with a golf course development. The 1910 land plan was designed to complement the steep, rolling topography, reminiscent of narrow country lanes in rural England. The use of local native stones unified the diverse architectural styles--Craftsman, Tudor Revival, and Colonial Revival--and contributed to the natural, distinctive feel of the community. Roebuck Springs is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Ruhama Baptist Church

Constituted in 1819 by pioneer settlers in Territory of Alabama. Oldest church in Birmingham Baptist Association. Elder Hosea Holcombe served as first pastor. First meeting house was log cabin. Present building is on fourth site.

Samford University

In the valley to the north is the Georgian-Colonial campus of Samford University founded in 1841 as Howard College by Alabama Baptists at Marion, Alabama. Alumni serve throughout the world.

Samford University

Multiple purpose Christian university founded 1842 as Howard College by Alabama Baptists at Marion. Moved to East Lake, Birmingham, 1887. Established on this campus 1957. Acquired Cumberland School of Law, Lebanon, Tennessee 1961. College rechartered 1965 as Samford University in honor of Frank Park Samford and his family. (Located on Lakeshore Drive at campus entrance. This marker replaces old Howard College marker at same location.)

School of Medicine

Opened as Alabama Medical College in 1859 in Mobile by Josiah C. Nott and other physicians as part of the University of Alabama. Closed by the Civil War in 1861, it reopened in 1868. Reorganized in 1897, it became the Medical Department and in 1907 the School of Medicine of the University of Alabama. The Mobile School was closed and moved to Tuscaloosa in 1920 as a two-year basic medical science program, which was offered through 1944. The Medical College of Alabama opened in Birmingham with a four-year program in 1945 and became the School of Medicine in 1969. The Medical Center gradually emerged as other schools were established: Dentistry 1948, Nursing 1966, Optometry and Community and Allied Health 1969, and Public Health 1981. The Medical Center and University College, which evolved out of The University of Alabama Extension Center established in 1935, formed the nucleus of The University of Alabama at Birmingham in 1966.

Site of Howard College

1887-1957 In the four block area south of this point Howard College developed a campus, 1887-1957. Founded 1842 by Alabama Baptists at Marion. Relocated 1957 on a site in Shades Valley, Birmingham, ten miles west. Rechartered 1965 as Samford University in honor of Frank Park Samford and his family. (Located in East Lake on Second Avenue, South)

Tannehill Ironworks

(1829-1865) Established 1829 with forge built on Roupes Creek (one mile south) by Daniel Hillman. First blast furnace built on site in 1850's by Moses Stroup. Two other furnaces erected in 1863 by William Sanders to provide iron for Confederate Arsenal at Selma. The only three-furnace ironworks in Alabama during Civil War, Tannehill was one of the largest producers of iron in Confederacy. Ceased operations after being partially destroyed by Federal troops March 31, 1865. Named for one of former owners, Ninion Tannehill. Also known as Roupes Valley Ironworks and Sanders Ironworks.

United States Pipe and Foundry Company

On March 3, 1899, the United States Pipe and Foundry Company was incorporated consolidating 14 iron and steel foundries in 9 states. One of these foundries, the Howard-Harrison Iron Company of Bessemer, was founded in 1889. In 1911, the Dimmick Pipe Company, located in North Birmingham, became part of the company. U.S. Pipe led the industry with its introduction of the deLavaud centrifugal casting technology in 1921. The process revolutionized the U.S. pipe-making industry and remained the standard production technology over 75 years later. In 1952, U.S. Pipe merged with Sloss-Sheffield Steel and Iron Company, founded in 1881, then relocated to this site in 1953. A subsidiary of Walter Industries of Tampa, Florida, U.S. Pipe remains an industry leader as the largest producer of Ductile Iron Pipe in the United States.

Wilson's Raiders

Headquarters March 28-31, 1865. Gen. James H. Wilson, USA, having crossed the Tennessee River with a large force of well equipped cavalry, grouped them here at Elyton. Their mission: to destroy Alabama's economic facilities for supporting the War. From these headquarters he sent; (a) cavalry unit to burn the military school, foundri