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Old Cahawba Archaeological Park: Alabama's Ghost Capital

Discover Alabama's first capital, a ghost town where history and nature converge. Explore ruins, trails, and mysteries at Old Cahawba.

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Explore the haunting ruins of Cahawba, Alabama's first permanent state capital (1820-1825). This archaeological park offers a glimpse into a bygone era, where nature and history intertwine. Wander through abandoned streets, discover moss-covered ruins, and contemplate the town's mysterious disappearance after the Civil War.

A brief summary to Old Cahawba Archaeological Park

  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the ruins and trails.
  • Bring a hat, sunscreen, and bug spray, especially during warmer months.
  • Visit the Welcome Center to view archaeological finds and get instructions for exploring the park.
  • Consider borrowing a bicycle from the visitor center to explore the site's five miles of level roads.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Old Cahawba Archaeological Park is located east of Orrville. From Selma, take Highway 22 west for 9 miles. Turn left onto County Road 9 and follow it for 5 miles. Then, turn left onto County Road 2, which leads into the park. Parking is available near the Visitor Center.

  • Public Transport

    While public transportation directly to Old Cahawba is limited, you can take a taxi or ride-sharing service from Selma. Expect to pay around $20-$30 for the approximately 15-mile trip. Check with local providers for current rates and availability.

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Discover more about Old Cahawba Archaeological Park

Old Cahawba Archaeological Park, Alabama's most famous ghost town, invites visitors to step back in time and explore the remnants of the state's first permanent capital. Founded in 1819 at the confluence of the Alabama and Cahaba rivers, Cahawba served as the capital from 1820 to 1825. Though its tenure as capital was brief, Cahawba flourished as a river town and cotton distribution hub. However, Cahawba's prosperity was short-lived. The Civil War brought hardship, with the Confederate government seizing the town's railroad. A prison, Castle Morgan, was established to house Union soldiers. Floods and the relocation of the county seat to Selma further contributed to Cahawba's decline. By the turn of the century, most of its buildings were lost to fire, decay, or dismantlement. Today, Old Cahawba is an archaeological park where visitors can roam the abandoned streets and view the moss-covered ruins. Interpretive signs tell the stories of forgotten people, while wildflowers bloom each spring. The park features a visitor center with exhibits, walking and bicycle trails, and opportunities for bird watching and canoeing. Explore the Clear Creek Nature Trail, see the restored St. Luke's Episcopal Church, and contemplate the mysteries of this ghost town.

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