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Forks of Cypress: Echoes of a Cotton Empire

Discover the haunting beauty and historical significance of the Forks of Cypress, a former cotton plantation in Florence, Alabama.

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The Forks of Cypress, near Florence, Alabama, was once a grand cotton plantation and Greek Revival home, established in 1818 by James Jackson. Though the house was destroyed by fire in 1966, the remaining columns stand as a reminder of its rich history and the lives of those who lived and worked there.

A brief summary to Forks of Cypress

Local tips

  • Check with the Florence-Lauderdale Tourism Convention & Visitors Bureau for information on scheduled walking tours, as the site is not always open to the public.
  • Bring a lawn chair for the beginning portion of the tour.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves walking around the grounds.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Florence, take Cox Creek Parkway to Jackson Road. Turn right onto Jackson Road (there is no traffic signal at the intersection). Continue for approximately 2 miles. You will see a historic marker identifying the Forks of Cypress. Turn right at the dead end. Parking is available along the road or inside the gate in the field leading to the columns. There are no fees for parking.

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Discover more about Forks of Cypress

The Forks of Cypress stands as a poignant reminder of Alabama's antebellum past. Established in 1818 by Irish immigrant James Jackson, the plantation quickly became a cotton empire, its prosperity built on the backs of enslaved laborers. The centerpiece of the Forks of Cypress was its magnificent Greek Revival mansion, completed in 1830. Designed by architect William Nichols, it was unique in Alabama for its two-story colonnade encircling the entire house, featuring 24 Ionic columns. The name 'Forks of Cypress' comes from the plantation's location between Big Cypress Creek and Little Cypress Creek. Beyond its architectural grandeur, the Forks of Cypress played a significant role in American history. During the Civil War, Union forces used the land as a base camp. The plantation was also home to ancestors of writer Alex Haley, providing a setting for his book, 'Queen: The Story of an American Family.' Tragically, the mansion was struck by lightning and burned to the ground in 1966. Today, only the columns and foundations remain, standing as silent witnesses to a bygone era. The site also includes a cemetery, where James Jackson, his family, and enslaved people are buried. While the main house is gone, the stories and legacy of the Forks of Cypress continue to resonate, offering a glimpse into the complex history of the American South.

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