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LaGrange College Site Park: A Journey into Alabama's Past

Discover Alabama's history at LaGrange College Site Park: Explore a pioneer village and antebellum cemetery in the heart of the Tennessee River Valley.

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Explore the site of Alabama's first chartered college, LaGrange College, destroyed during the Civil War. Now a recreated pioneer village with an antebellum cemetery, it offers a glimpse into 19th-century life in the Tennessee River Valley.

A brief summary to La Grange College Site Park

  • 1491 Lagrange College Rd, Leighton, Alabama, 35646, US
  • +1256-702-6953
  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 1 pm-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the annual 'Recall LaGrange' event in May for an immersive experience with Civil War reenactments and historical demonstrations.
  • Check the park's website for upcoming events, including the 'LaGrange Distillery Raid,' offering a glimpse into Prohibition-era history.
  • Explore the Pioneer Village and scan the QR codes on the buildings to delve deeper into their fascinating stories.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    LaGrange College Site Park is located at 1491 LaGrange College Rd, Leighton, AL 35646, approximately 8 miles southeast of Muscle Shoals and 4 miles south of Leighton, Alabama. From Highway 157, follow the signs to the park. Parking is free.

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Discover more about La Grange College Site Park

LaGrange College Site Park, located in Leighton, Alabama, invites visitors to step back in time and explore Alabama's rich history. Established in 1830, LaGrange College was the state's first chartered college, earning the nickname 'The West Point of the South' due to its military emphasis. The college attracted students from prominent families, but by 1862, most had enlisted in the Confederate army. On April 28, 1863, Union forces destroyed the college and the surrounding village by fire. Today, the site is a living history park maintained by the LaGrange Living Historical Association. Visitors can explore a recreated pioneer village, featuring buildings such as a post office, country store, and inn, offering a glimpse into 19th-century life. QR codes on the buildings provide more information about their history. The park also includes an antebellum cemetery, where many prominent figures from the region are buried. Throughout the year, the park hosts various events, including 'Recall LaGrange' in May, which commemorates the burning of the college with Civil War reenactments. The 'LaGrange Distillery Raid' recreates a Prohibition-era moonshine raid. The Welcome Center offers exhibits about the history of the college and the surrounding area.

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