Old Alabama Town: A Journey Through Time

Old Alabama Town, administered by the Landmarks Foundation of Montgomery, offers a captivating journey into Alabama's past. Spanning six blocks in downtown Montgomery, this unique historical village comprises over 50 carefully preserved and restored buildings dating from the 19th and early 20th centuries. These structures, rescued from across central Alabama, offer visitors a tangible connection to the lives of those who shaped the region. Founded in 1967, the Landmarks Foundation of Montgomery embarked on a mission to preserve Alabama's architectural and historical heritage. The first building was the Ordeman House, and the site opened in 1971. As you stroll through Old Alabama Town, you'll encounter a diverse collection of buildings that reflect the social and economic fabric of the time. Explore the Lucas Tavern, the oldest surviving building in Montgomery County, where General Lafayette once stayed. Beyond the grand townhouse, Old Alabama Town also features more modest dwellings, representing the lives of everyday Alabamians. Pioneer cabins, simple cottages, and working-class homes offer a glimpse into the diverse experiences of people living in central Alabama during this period. Old Alabama Town is not just a collection of buildings; it's a living history museum where you can engage with the past through interactive exhibits and demonstrations. Knowledgeable guides bring the stories of early Alabamians to life, sharing insights into their daily lives, challenges, and triumphs. The tour area is broken down into the working block, the living block, and the Ordeman House. The working block includes an operational cotton gin and gristmill, a blacksmith shop, an old-time pharmacy, and a printing press. The living block depicts how people lived in the 19th century, with a one-room schoolhouse, a corner grocery store, and a log cabin.