Background

St. Stephens Historical Park: Where Alabama Began

Explore Alabama's territorial capital: history, recreation, and natural beauty converge at St. Stephens Historical Park on the Tombigbee River.

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Explore the site of Alabama's first territorial capital at St. Stephens Historical Park. Discover historical ruins, enjoy outdoor recreation on the Tombigbee River and a quarry lake, and immerse yourself in the state's rich history.

A brief summary to St. Stephens Historical Park

Local tips

  • Bring binoculars for bird watching; the park is a featured site on the Alabama Birding Trails [2].
  • Consider booking a cabin or RV site in advance, especially during the summer months [5, 8].
  • Check the park's website or call ahead to inquire about ongoing archaeological digs and tour availability [3].
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy by the quarry lake or along the Tombigbee River [4].
  • Be aware that the park gate may be closed for a few hours in the afternoon during November through February [8].
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Getting There

  • Driving

    St. Stephens Historical Park is located at 2056 Jim Long Road, St. Stephens, AL 36569. From the town of St. Stephens, head northwest on County Road 34/St. Stephens Road. Turn left onto Jim Long Road. The park entrance will be on your right. There is no fee for parking [11].

  • Walking

    From anywhere within the town of St. Stephens, the park is accessible via a walk along County Road 34/St. Stephens Road and Jim Long Road. Be aware that there are no sidewalks and limited shoulder along portions of the route. The walk is approximately 2 miles and should take under 45 minutes. There is no fee to enter the park [11].

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Discover more about St. Stephens Historical Park

St. Stephens Historical Park, near present-day St. Stephens, Alabama, marks the spot where Alabama's story as a territory and state began [2, 5]. From 1817 to 1819, St. Stephens served as the territorial capital, a bustling center of commerce and political activity [2, 4]. Today, the park preserves the history of this significant site, offering visitors a chance to explore the ruins of the original town and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities [5, 6]. The park encompasses the remains of the old town of St. Stephens, which thrived from 1799 to 1829 [3, 6]. Explore the foundations of the courthouse, jail, and other buildings, offering glimpses into the lives of pioneer Alabamians [4, 6]. The Territorial Legislature Building, where Alabama's first constitution was drafted and signed, now serves as a museum with exhibits on the state's territorial and early statehood periods [4]. Active archaeological digs take place regularly, and tours are available upon request [3, 6]. Beyond its historical significance, St. Stephens Historical Park provides ample opportunities for recreation [2]. A 70-acre quarry lake is a centerpiece of the park, offering a sandy beach for swimming, fishing, and boating [3]. Over 15 miles of trails wind through the park, perfect for hiking and horseback riding [3, 8]. The park also features an 18-hole disc golf course, bird watching, and primitive and RV camping sites [2, 3, 8]. The park is located on the Tombigbee River, with a boat ramp available for access [2, 3]. St. Stephens' history stretches back further than its time as a capital. Originally a Spanish fort in 1789, it became a major thoroughfare for settlers moving to the southwest frontier [2]. The area's history is also deeply intertwined with Native American culture, serving as a trading post for the Choctaw [5]. Although St. Stephens declined after the capital moved, the Historical Park ensures its story is not forgotten [2].

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