Majestic Caverns: Alabama's Underground Treasure

Majestic Caverns, formerly known as DeSoto Caverns, is a captivating cave system nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains in Childersburg, Alabama. Touted as "Alabama's Big Cave," it holds the distinction of being the first cavern on record in the United States, documented in 1796 by presidential agent George Stiggens in a letter to President George Washington. The caverns boast a rich history, serving as a burial site for the early Native American Copena culture (8000 to 1000 BC). The Copena people, named for the copper and galena artifacts found in their burials, believed caves provided a peaceful sanctuary for the spirits of the dead. Archaeological excavations in 1963 unearthed the skeletons of five Native Americans, including a child, and in 1995, their remains were respectfully reburied within the cave. During the Civil War, the caverns were mined for saltpeter, a key ingredient in gunpowder. In 1910, Ida Mathis purchased the cave with plans to mine its gem-quality onyx, though this venture was ultimately unsuccessful. The Mathis family has stewarded the cave for over a century, opening it to the public as a tourist attraction in 1975. Today, visitors can explore the depths of Majestic Caverns on guided tours, witnessing the awe-inspiring Kymulga Cathedral Room, a chamber as tall as a 12-story building and longer than a football field. The cave is adorned with a vast collection of onyx-marble stalagmites and stalactites, showcasing nature's artistry. The hour-long tours also feature a captivating sound, light, and water show. Above ground, Majestic Caverns offers over 20 attractions, including a maze, gemstone panning, a climbing wall, and amusement park-style rides.