Madison County

Side one

Affair at Madison Station
May 17, 1864

The largest engagement of the Civil War in Madison County was fought during a driving rainstorm here at the site of the railroad depot. Under the command of Col. Josiah Patterson, the Confederate forces (~1000 cavalry and a battery of artillery) crossed the Tennessee River near Triana and attacked a garrison of ~350 men of the 13th Illinois Infantry. Union forces fell back along the railroad toward Huntsville to Indian Creek. They counterattacked after being reinforced by infantry from Huntsville. Confederates were forced back across the river after burning equipment and cotton at the depot. Casualties were light on both sides.

Side two

Affair at Indian Creek Ford
December 23, 1864

One of the last engagements between regular forces of the Civil War in Madison County occurred ~2 ½ miles east of this spot on a bitterly cold day. Union elements of the 10th - 13th Indiana Cavalries and the 2nd Tennessee Cavalry (US), under Lt. Col. W.F. Prosser, attacked a force of ~300 dismounted cavalry from Roddey’s, Burtwell’s, and Moreland’s regiments, commanded by Col. J.R.B. Burtwell. The Union force made a mounted saber charge which resulted in disorganized Confederate retreat. Union losses were 1 killed and 3 wounded, while the Confederate loss was reported as several killed and 54 wounded and captured.

Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University
Normal, Alabama

  Legislature approved 9 December 1873 "a normal school for the education of colored teachers" in Huntsville. Ex-slave William Hooper Councill founder and first president. Classes began May 1875 in a rented building; moved 1881 to first school-owned property on West Clinton Street. Land-grant funds received 1891 for training of Negroes in agriculture and mechanic arts enables school to enlarge and re-establish at present location. Evolved from a normal school to a University in ninety-four years.
  Former names
  1873 - Colored Normal School at Huntsville
  1885 - The Huntsville State Colored Normal and Industrial School
  1896 - The State Agricultural and Mechanical College for Negroes
  1919 - The State Agricultural and Mechanical Institute for Negroes
  1948 - Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical College
  1969 - University status achieved

The Big Spring
 This inexhaustible source of pure water was a marvel to Indian and frontiersman alike prior to the 19th century. John Hunt, an early settler, built a cabin near this site by 1805. The spring became a major attraction at the land sales of 1809, when LeRoy Pope outbid all others. By 1823, spring water was being pumped 96 feet through hollowed cedar logs to a reservoir on the town square. This was one of the earliest waterworks in the country.

The Big Spring
(continued from other side)

 In 1843, LeRoy Pope’s son, William H. Pope, deeded the site to Huntsville for one dollar. Until 1957, the spring was the main source of fresh water for Huntsville’s citizens, and for thirty years prior to 1950, revenue from the sale of water was the largest single source of income for the city’s General Fund. A park/picnic ground was developed around the spring in 1898. Before that and for many years afterward, great crowds attended religious baptisms held below the small dam at the spring.

Buckhorn Tavern

  Located in Section 18, Township 2, Range 2 East, this site was an early wayside stop for pioneer settlers as they traveled the road from Winchester, Tennessee into Madison County. The tavern predates the creation of the county, Dec. 13, 1808.
  During the Creek Indian War (1813-1814), the Deposit Road was created at this point and stretched southeastward through Cherokee lands to Fort Deposit near Gunter's Landing. This became the supply route for General Andrew Jackson's forces. His deputy, Colonel John Coffee, stored supplies opposite the tavern and camped his troops (Nov. 22-Dec. 8, 1813).
  By tradition, the tavern took its name "Buckhorn" in 1858 when William L. Fanning killed a buck near the site and presented its antlers to the innkeeper. The antlers are now displayed at Buckhorn High School.
  The original building was demolished in the early 1950s.

Buckhorn Tavern Skirmish

  Buckhorn Tavern was the site of the skirmish on Oct. 12, 1863. Confederate General Phillip D. Roddey's Alabama Cavalry Brigade was moving south from New Market when it intercepted Union General Robert Mitchell's Cavalry Brigade, advancing northeast from Huntsville. A brisk firefight broke out, the opposing forces so close they could see each others' faces by the muzzle flashes. Both sides hesitated to advance in the approaching darkness and heavy rain. The Union troops camped for the night in the woods; the Confederates retired to New Market. The next morning, Rodney's Brigade rode on to Athens. The union cavalry did not pursue.

Calhoun House

  On this site stood the Calhoun House, used as a Federal Courthouse, where desperado Frank James was tried and found not guilty, by jury trial, on April 25, 1884, for robbery of a government payroll near Muscle Shoals, Alabama. May 11, 1881.
  One of his defense attorneys was Huntsville's LeRoy Pope Walker, first Secretary of War of the Confederate States of America.

Central Presbyterian Church

 This church which had its origins in the Cumberland Presbyterian Church was first mentioned at a meeting of the Presbytery on April 7, 1812. It became known as First Cumberland Presbyterian Church of Huntsville, Alabama. In 1828 the first building was constructed on Greene Street north of Holmes Street. In 1845 a second building, designed by George Steele, was erected at this site. The present building was begun in 1899. In 1906 this church became known as Central Presbyterian Church when united with the Presbyterian Church, USA.

Side 1

The Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville / Madison County
Established January 12, 1894

Organized to enhance the economic growth and well-being of the community in order to provide employment opportunities and a superior quality of life for local residents.
First known as the Huntsville Chamber of Commerce, the organization included Madison County in 1954 to more effectively promote the general prosperity of Huntsville / Madison County.

Side 2

The Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville / Madison County
Established January 12, 1894

Between 1894 and 1916, the Chamber met at various locations. The Chamber’s first official address of record was the Elk Building on Eustis Street, from 1916-1923. Later locations included the O.M. Hundley House, the Tennessee Valley Bank, the Russell Erskine Hotel, and the Hotel Twickenham. In 1965, the Chamber moved to 305 Church Street. It remained there until 1986 when the organization built this facility at 225 Church Street.

Chickasaw Old Fields

  This place has been known by three names: Chickasaw Old Fields-1769. Cherokee Indians attacked Chickasaws who were invading their lands. After severe battle Chickasaws withdrew. Ditto's Landing–Early boat landing on Tennessee River established by John Ditto, Indian trader. Town of Whitesburg–Old river port, incorporated 1824 by James White, Abington, Va., "Salt King." (Located on U.S. Highway 431 near Tennessee River)

The Church of the Nativity, Episcopal

  The Church of the Nativity congregation was organized December 17, 1842--the name chosen because of the approaching Christmas season. The Convention of the Diocese of Alabama, Protestant Episcopal Church, approved the congregation on February 16, 1843. The original brick church, erected in 1847, stood east of the present structure.
  The present church building, an outstanding example of Gothic Revival architecture, was designed by Frank Wills and Henry Dudley of New York. Erected at a cost of $37,500, it was dedicated Easter Eve, April 13, 1859, and consecrated January 29, 1860.
Reverse
The Church of the Nativity, Episcopal

  Bibb Chapel was consecrated in 1886 as a memorial to Wilson Carey Bibb. Ridley Hall, for parish functions, was completed in 1953 as a memorial to Dr. James L. Ridley. Joffrion Hall, dedicated in 1983 as an educational building, was named for the Rev. A. Emile Joffrion, ninth rector.
  For 150 years, Nativity was served by only ten rectors, two of whom became bishops. The Rev. Henry C. Lay, second rector, was consecrated Missionary Bishop of the Southwest (1859). The Rev. Randolph R. Clairborne, Jr., seventh rector, was consecrated Suffragan Bishop, Diocese of Alabama (1949) and became Bishop of Alabama (1953).

City of Madison

  Established in 1856 as a shipping station on the Memphis and Charleston R.R., the town was plotted on land owned by James Clemens and incorporated by vote of its citizens in 1869.
  First officials included William R. Johnson, mayor; and five aldermen, William B. Dunn, first depot agent; Thomas J. Clay, first postmaster; George W. Martin, first merchant; James H. Bibb, planter; and Dr. George R. Sullivan.
  The community remained small until the growth of industries associated with Redstone Arsenal and the Jetport in the 1950's and 1960's transformed Madison intro a thriving city.

Councill Training School
(1919 - 1970)

 In 1919, the first building was erected nearby with funds provided locally and supplemented with a Julius Rosenwald Foundation grant. Named for William H. Councill, Alabama A&M University founder, the three-room structure was built for black students in grades 1-6. Traditionally county black students were taught in churches and lodge halls. Many would continue their education at the University’s Laboratory School. The second school was erected on this site in 1948. This structure accommodated 600 students, grades 1-12. The first class graduated in 1949. The principals were: Dr. Charles Orr (1948-53), Mr. J.H. Richards (1953-59), and Mr. A.G. Adams (1959-70).

Councill Training School
(1919 -1970)
(Continued from other side)

 In 1952, the school was accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Enrollment increased from 600 to 950; faculty from 22 to 32. Additional classrooms were constructed in 1958 and 1962. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 impacted the future of the school. As black students attended neighborhood schools due to integration, enrollment declined. In 1968, the school became a senior high school, limited to grades 10-12. The school closed in 1970 as full integration took effect. The land and property reverted to Alabama A&M University in 1971 to accommodate University needs.

Dallas Mills & Village 1892-1949

  Chartered in 1890 by T.B. Dallas, Dallas Mills began operation in 1892 as Alabama's largest cotton mill, manufacturing sheeting. The mill village extended from Oakwood Ave. South to Dallas St. Employees were provided homes, medical care, churches, library, lodge building, YMCA, concerts, a kindergarten, and schools. The mill closed in 1949 and the village was incorporated into Huntsville in 1955.

Dallas (Optimist) Park 1928-1949

  Built in 1928, Dallas Park served as the baseball field for the Dallas Mill teams coached by H.E. "Hub" Myhand, who came to Huntsville in 1927 as physical director for Dallas Manufacturing Co. Until the 1940s, he was Mr. Baseball in Huntsville. During these years, semi-pro baseball featuring local mill teams drew loyal crowds of up to 6,000 fans. In 1935, the Lincoln and Dallas Mill teams merged to form the Redcaps. The Huntsville Dr. Peppers (1937-1943), a women's semi-pro softball team coached by Cecil Fain, also played here.

(Dallas) Optimist Park 1949-

  In 1949, the Optimist Club purchased Dallas Park from Dallas Mills, erected lights, and renamed it Optimist Park. The close of the cotton mills ended the mill-team era, though semi-pro baseball returned with Leroy McCollum's Huntsville Boosters (1950-53). The park, one of the few early ball parks open to all races, was used during the 1950s and 1960s for exhibition games by the Birmingham Black Barons and other Negro League teams. With the Park renovated and reopened (1994) by the City of Huntsville, baseball returned to Optimist Park, the self proclaimed "Friend of Youth."

First Bank in Alabama–Merchants and Planters Bank of Huntsville

  Housed on this site in brick building 44 ft X 54 ft–Chartered by Mississippi Territorial Legislature December 11, 1816–Commenced operations October 17, 1817, shortly thereafter made depository for Huntsville Federal Land Office funds–Charter voided by Proclamation of Governor Pickens on February 1, 1825–LeRoy Pope, first and only president. (Located on Huntsville-Decatur Highway at intersection of road to new Airport)

First Baptist Church, Huntsville, Ala.

  Oldest Baptist Church (Missionary) in Alabama. Organized June 3, 1809 as the West Fork of Flint River Church. Presiding Clergy: John Canterbury, John McCutchen and John Nicholson. Renamed Enon Church and called John Canterbury as 1st pastor 1809. 1st meetinghouse completed 1813, 1 mile NE of Meridianville. 2nd meetinghouse completed 1825, 3 miles NE of Meridianville. Charter member of Flint River Baptist Association 1814. This historical marker erected 1983.
  Hosted organizational meeting of Liberty Baptist Association November 1838. Built 3rd meetinghouse 1859-1869 at Clinton and Gallatin Sts. Pastor Eugene Strode led church to Huntsville 1861. Renamed First Baptist Church 1893. Dedicated new building 1895. Relocated to this site 1963. Completed new facilities with distinctive, modernistic architecture, and Christian symbolism 1966.
  Established seven missions of which several became churches. Charter member of Madison Baptist Association 1838. Member of Alabama Baptist State Convention.

First Presbyterian Church

  Huntsville, Alabama. Organized June 15, 1818 by the Rev. Gideon Blackburn, D.D. One of the state's oldest Presbyterian churches. This site was selected for the first church building, dedicated on Oct. 13, 1822. The second, and present, sanctuary was dedicated on May 18, 1860. Names of all ministers who have served this church are recorded on plaques in the sanctuary. This marker erected on 150th anniversary of organization.

First United Methodist Church
Huntsville, Alabama
Methodism brought into area 1807

  Methodist Society organized at Hunt's Spring prior to formation of Madison County, served 1808-1820 by Flint Circuit traveling ministers. First Church built 1821 NW corner Clinton and Gallatin Streets. Present site acquired 1832, church completed 1834, occupied and accidentally burned by Federals 1864. Cornerstone laid 1867 for present sanctuary, dedicated 1874.

Five Points Historic District
Established October 28, 1999

Part of the 1892 East Huntsville Addition created by local businessmen to revitalize Huntsville and attract industry in the post-Reconstruction period. Many streets recall those individuals – Pratt, Wellman, Ward, and Wells. Huntsville’s first subdivision, made feasible by the construction of a streetcar line, allowed working people to live farther than walking distance from jobs and shopping. Although the historic district does not encompass all of the area known as Five Points, it illustrates over 100 years of vernacular domestic architecture. The district retains its 19th-century grid of broad parallel streets, narrow lots, and rear service alleys. Annexed into the city in 1925.

Flint River Primitive Baptist Church

 Alabama’s oldest Baptist church was constituted by Elder John Nicholson on October 2, 1808 in the home of James Deaton in Killingsworth Cove. It was named “The Flint River Baptist Church of Christ.” The original building was built circa 1809 on the bank of the Flint River ~ 1 mile east of this site. Circa 1885, the congregation relocated to a new site ~ 2 ½ miles east of the original location. Circa 1937, the present structure was built ~ 3 ½ miles west of the second site.
 (continued on other side)

Flint River Primitive Baptist Church  
(continued from other side)

 “Primitive” was added to the congregation’s name after a division occurred within the Baptist family in the 1830's. Those congregations that embraced new church practices such as mission boards, Sunday Schools, and musical instruments in the church were called “New School” or “Missionary” Baptist. Flint River Baptist Church continued in the simplicity of New Testament worship, thus being called “Old School” or “Primitive” Baptist.

Ford's Chapel United Methodist Church
(Organized 1808)

  The Western Conference, Oct. 1-7, 1808 in Williamson County, Tenn., sent James Gwinn to the "great bend" of the Tenn. River. Gwinn organized at the home of Richard and Betsy Ford, the first Methodist Society of the six in the Flint Circuit. This circuit, among others, was served for many years by circuit riders. First building was started in 1815. Building and 2½ acres of land deeded to church trustees in 1824 by the Fords. Present sanctuary, begun in 1870 on original foundation, has undergone several renovations and minor alterations.

General Morgan

  Birthplace of General Morgan the Rebel Raider. In this house John Hunt Morgan was born June 1, 1825. This dashing cavalry leader of the Confederacy was killed at Greeneville, Tenn., Sept. 4, 1864. This house, built in 1823, was the home, 1849-1949, of the heirs of Stephen Neal, Madison County's first Sheriff. (Located in Huntsville)

Glenwood Cemetery

  Glenwood Cemetery replaced the original slave cemetery known as "Georgia," which had been established in 1818 and located north of the present Huntsville Hospital. Glenwood Cemetery was established in 1870 by the City of Huntsville following the purchase of 10 acres from Benjamin W. Blake estate, originally a part of the John Brahan Plantation. Additional land was added in 1875 from the W. W. Darwin family, resulting in the current configuration. Distinguished African Americans buried here include veterans of America's wars beginning with the Civil War, former slaves, accomplished artisans, professionals in many fields, clergymen, educators, entrepreneurs, politicians, and other leaders.
  Early Community Leaders Buried Here Include:
  Henry C. Binford, Educator
  Daniel S. Brandon, Alderman
  William H. Gaston, Clergyman
  Charles Hendley, Jr., Editor, Huntsville Gazette
  C. C. Moore, Post man
  Burgess E. Scruggs, Physician

Goldsmith-Schiffman Field

  On January 25, 1934, Oscar Goldsmith, Lawrence B. Goldsmith, Annie Schiffman Goldsmith, Robert L. Schiffman, and Elsie Strauss Schiffman gave this property to the City of Huntsville for an athletic field. The gift was in memory of Betty Bernstein Goldsmith (wife of Oscar and mother of Lawrence) and Betty Herstein Schiffman (wife of Isaac and mother of other donors). The Civil Works Administration provided $6500 in materials and labor to construct the field, the first in Huntsville to accommodate night athletic games. The Acme Club raised funds for lighting through season ticket sales. Dedication exercises were held during the first night game on October 4, 1934, when 1000 fans saw Coach Milton Frank's Huntsville High team defeat Gadsden High.

Green Academy

  Chartered in 1812. Leading educational institution. Long prominent in training leaders of North Alabama. Occupied by Federal troops, 1862. Buildings burned, 1864. Site of city schools since 1882. Location used only for school purposes.

Hayden Cemetery

On August 19, 1887, Tranquilla J. Haden gave to the Poplar Ridge community 1.5 acres at this site for a cemetery later to be called Hayden. The site had been used as a cemetery since as early as 1858. The cemetery expanded to 5.1 acres through gifts and purchases from Horatio & Sallie Smith, Howard & Ada Smith, Carl & Betty Worley, and Bobby Connally. During the construction of Interstate 65 in 1968, remains from the Collier Cemetery in Limestone County were reinterred at Hayden. On June 4, 1985, a perpetual care organization was created with officers and trustees to ensure the cemetery continued to serve southeast Madison County.

Historic Viduta
"Viduta"-derived from Spanish "vida" meaning "life"

  In a time when yellow fever, malaria, and cholera threatened, Dr. Thomas Fearn and his brothers Robert and George were drawn by the cool air and medicinal springs to establish a small colony on the northern section of Monte Sano Mountain in 1827. In 1833 the town of Viduta was officially established. This area contains a variety of architectural styles dating from the late 1800's.

Hotel Monte Sano
"Monte Sano"-Spanish for "Mountain of Health"

  In 1887 the North Alabama Improvement Company, with the assistance of Michael and James O'Shaughnessy, built a 233-room hotel on Monte Sano Mountain. The hotel served as a health resort and haven for industrial giants including the Vanderbilts and Astors. Guests arrived via the Monte Sano Railway which ran up the mountain. The hotel ceased operations in 1900 and was later purchased by the Garth family for their summer residence. It was demolished for salvage in 1944. All that remains of the hotel is the brick chimney on Old Chimney Road.

Hotel Monte Sano
“Monte Sano” – Spanish for “Mountain of Health”

Site of Hotel Monte Sano, built in 1887 by the North Alabama Improvement Company with the assistance of Michael and James O’Shaughnessy. The 233-room hotel opened on June 1, 1887 and served as a health resort and haven for famous visitors including Helen Keller, the Vanderbilts, and the Astors. Guests arrived via the “Tally Ho” stagecoach or the Monte Sano Railway, which served the mountain community. The hotel closed in 1900, and the W.W. Garth family later purchased it for their summer retreat. It was demolished for salvage in 1944. All that remains of the hotel is the brick chimney.

Howard Weeden Home

  Built 1819 by H. C. Bradford, this home was later owned by John Read, John McKinley, Associate Justice of the Supreme Court (1837-1852), Bartley M. Lowe, M. C. Betts and Marie Howard Weeden (1847-1905) whose poetry and paintings preserve nineteenth century Southern culture.
  Marked by D.A.R. 1910; H.A.B.S. 1935
  National Register of Historic Places, 1973

Huntsville

  City was scene of these "firsts" in Alabama: 1811 first town incorporated 1812 first Masonic Lodge chartered 1816 first bank incorporated 1819 first state constitution drafted 1819 first Governor inaugurated 1819 first session of state legislature held 1824 first cotton mill erected.

Indian Creek Canal

  Northern terminus Indian Creek Canal–First canal in Alabama–Incorporated 1820–Completed 1831–This canal was constructed to the Tennessee River to facilitate the transportation of cotton to market. Developers were: Thomas Fearn, LeRoy Pope, Stephen S. Ewing, Henry Cook, and Samuel Hazard.
  (Located in Huntsville near northern end of canal at Big Spring)

Initial Survey Point

  In 1809, Major Thomas Freeman, Deputy U.S. Surveyor, established a marker here on the state line and began surveying south toward the middle of the state. This line, known as the Huntsville Meridian, is the reference for all property surveys in North Alabama. The Initial Point, now in the middle of the highway, was reset in 1977 by the Alabama Society of Professional Land Surveyors.

John Williams Walker (1783-1823)

  President of Alabama's First Constitutional Convention 1819 and Alabama's first U.S. Senator 1818-22. Walker County in northwest Alabama, created 1823, named in his honor. Four of his sons, Percy Walker, John James Walker, LeRoy Pope Walker, and Richard Wilde Walker, were prominent in Alabama politics. (Located 2 mi. north of Meridianville on U.S. highway 231 & 431)

Joseph J. Bradley School
1919-1967

  The School, named for Joseph J. Bradley, Sr., was built in 1919 on the site of the first mill-sponsored school. Under the leadership of Edward Foyl DuBose, Principal (1921-1967), and with the mill's financial support, the school grew from 6 grades to 12 and served as a social and recreational center for the entire community. In 1951, the mill owners made a gift of the school to the county school system and, in 1956, it became part of the city school system. The elementary school continued operating until it was closed in 1967.

Lincoln School and Village

  In 1918 William Lincoln Barrell of Lowell, Ma. purchased Abingdon Mill and transformed it into a large textile center of all concrete construction named Lincoln Mill Village. Phillip Peter served as its superintendent from 1934-1953.
  Built in 1929 this school became the central core of community life until 1956 when Lincoln Village was annexed to the city of Huntsville. Edward W. Anderson served as its principal for 27 years. Many graduates became local and state leaders.
  The mill stopped operation in 1957 and burned in 1980.

Madison County

  Made a county in 1808 by order of Governor of Mississippi Territory. Area ceded 1805, 1806 by Cherokees, Chickasaws. This was the first land in Alabama ceded by these great civilized tribes.

Maple Hill Cemetery

  Established 1818 by the city of Huntsville, Maple Hill Cemetery has become the final resting place of many citizens of this community. Here lie brave men who served in the major wars of our nation, many public servants, and many citizens whose good works may have been known only to God. Scrolls in Cemetery Reception Hall bear the names of some outstanding people. Governors of Alabama who lie buried in this cemetery: Thomas Bibb, 1784-1839, Governor 1820-21–Clement Comer Clay, 1789-1866, Governor 1835-37–Reuben Chapman, 1799-1882, Governor 1847-49–Robert Miller Patton, 1809-1885, Governor 1865-68–David Peter Lewis, 1820-1884, Governor 1872-74. (Located in Huntsville)

Merrimack Mfg. Co. & Village
1900-1992

  In 1899, construction started on Merrimack Mill and village. The mill began operation in 1900. A second mill building, added in 1903, made it one of the largest in the South. Under Joseph J. Bradley, Sr., managing agent (1905-1922), the village grew to 279 houses, a hospital, school, company store, and other small businesses. In 1920, the steam-operated mills converted to electricity. Lowenstein fabrics bought the mill (1946), changed its name to Huntsville Mfg. Co., and the village became Huntsville Park. The mill continued to operate until 1989 and in 1992, Huntsville's last operating textile mill was torn down.

Mount Paran Campground and Cemetery

  New Market, Alabama
  "A holy place: symbol of eternity, strength, and stability within the wilderness."
  One of the earliest known Cumberland Presbyterian campgrounds in Madison County, Mount Paran Cemetery is the resting place for many of the county's pioneer settlers, with the earliest surviving grave stone dated 1826. Originally this six acre site was bequeathed to Mount Paran Presbyterian Church of New Market in 1842 by Samuel Davis. A division within the congregation in 1906 resulted in the dissolution of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church at New Market in 1914, and some of its members joined neighboring congregations. With the decline of its use, Mount Paran Cemetery became known as "Graveyard Hill."
  Today Mount Paran Cemetery comprises 3.77 acres; approximately 400 grave sites may be found of which 135 have markers remaining. Revolutionary War veterans Samuel Davis and Moses Poor are buried here, along with their families, as well as those of Issac Criner and John Miller. Records indicate the burial of a number of early pioneers, farmers, servants, merchants, physicians, educators, ministers, public officials, veterans of major wars, and those whose good works may be known only to God.

Mt. Zion Primitive Baptist Church

The Mt. Zion Primitive Baptist Church was established in 1878 beneath a weeping willow tree in Triana, Alabama under the leadership of Elder Eli Patton. On June 20, 1905 the present site was purchased in the New Haven community and a new sanctuary was erected. The third sanctuary was completed on July 27, 1997. Renovation of the older structure was completed in September of 2000.

Sponsored by the Madison African-American Alliance Group

New Market Presbyterian Church

  Mary Miller deeded land in 1849 to serve both Methodist and Cumberland Presbyterian congregations. The original building burned and the Methodists in 1882 sold their interest in a second building. This second church destroyed by a tornado in 1884. Present building erected in 1888. In 1906 the Cumberland Presbyterians left to form a new church, and the remaining members affiliated with the First Presbyterian Church, USA; N.J. Powers, Minister. National Register of Historic Places, 1988.

Oak Place

 George Gilliam Steele, one of Huntsville’s preeminent architects, designed and built Oak Place as his country residence circa 1840 on 320 acres. An outstanding example of Early Greek Revival architecture, it was unique for the period with its split-level style, English basement, sliding pocket doors, and other unusual architectural features. Oak Place was occupied by Union troops during the Civil War and served as headquarters for General Joe Wheeler when a military camp was established in Huntsville during the Spanish-American War. Purchased by the East Huntsville Baptist Church in 1960 and renovated in 1980.
 Historic American Building Survey (HABS) - 1934
 National Register of Historic Places - 1974

Oakwood College
Founded 1896

  Oakwood College, which began as an industrial school, was founded by the Seventh-day Adventist Church in 1896 to educate African Americans in the South. The school was erected on 380 acres purchased during the previous year for $6,700. Additional property secured in 1918 nearly tripled its land holdings. The school underwent several name changes over its history:
  1896: Oakwood Industrial School
  1904: Oakwood Manual Training School
  1917: Oakwood Junior College
  1943: Oakwood College
  In 1958, Oakwood was granted full accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Oakwood prepares students from across America and many nations to serve the world in a variety of positions and careers, reflecting its motto, "Today's College for Tomorrow's Leaders."
  On this site, too, stood the Peter Blow Plantation which counted Dred Scott among its slaves in 1819. In 1857, Scott captured national attention by virtue of his appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court for his freedom in Missouri after sojourning in the free state of Illinois.

Old Town Historic District

  Designated by the City of Huntsville, Alabama, on December 12, 1974, as a Huntsville historic district, it contains houses dating from 1828 onward with the majority dating from 1880 to 1929.
  Approximate boundaries: East Clinton Avenue north to Walker Avenue; Lincoln Street east to Andrew Jackson Way. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, July 18, 1978.

Original Site of Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University
(now located at Normal, Alabama)

  Legislature approved 9 December 1873 "a normal school for the education of colored teachers" in Huntsville. Ex-slave William Cooper Councill founder and first president. Classes began May 1875 with sixty-one pupils and two teachers; held in rented buildings until moved 1881 to this site–the first school-owned property. Land-grant funds received 1891 for training of Negroes in agriculture and mechanic arts enabled school to enlarge and re-locate on present campus north of the city.
  Former names
  1873 - Colored Normal School at Huntsville
  1885 - The Huntsville State Colored Normal and Industrial School
  1896 - The State Agricultural and Mechanical College for Negroes
  1919 - The State Agricultural and Mechanical Institute for Negroes
  1948 - Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical College
  1969 - University status achieved

Original Site of Enon Baptist Church

  Approximately one-half mile north of here is the original site of the oldest Baptist Church (Missionary) in Alabama. This congregation was organized on June 3, 1809 as the West Fork of Flint River Church and renamed Enon Church shortly thereafter. John Canterbury was called as the first pastor on August 5, 1809. This group became a charter member of Flint River Baptist Association in 1814. Services were held in members' homes until a log meetinghouse was completed in 1813. This building served until 1825 when a brick church was constructed three miles northeast of Meridianville. In 1861 under the leadership of Pastor Eugene Strode, the congregation moved to Huntsville. The Enon Baptist Church was renamed First Baptist Church of Huntsville in 1895.

Original Site of Lakeside United Methodist Church 1866-1968

  The Missionary Society of the Methodist Episcopal Church purchased this property in 1866, and the congregation erected a frame building with a brick basement in 1867. The Rev. Howell Echols was the first pastor. In 1886, a brick building, constructed from dismantled materials from the original Episcopal Church of the Nativity, was dedicated. The property was sold during urban renewal in the 1960's, and the congregation moved to 3738 Meridian Street in 1968. The building on this site was destroyed by fire, and many items, including church records, stained glass windows, cornerstones, and a chandelier, were lost.
  For more than a century at this site, Lakeside provided educational, political, and cultural leaders for Huntsville. The first city-supported school for blacks was located in the basement (1867-1890), with Henry C. Binford, Charles Hendley, Jr., and Thomas Cooper as principals. Six of the nine black Aldermen in Huntsville from 1880-1905 were members of the church: Thomas Townsend, Nelson Hendley, David and Daniel Brandon, Dr. Burgess E. Scruggs, and Henry C. Binford . Mary Binford Johnson began the Annual Harvest Cultural Festival in 1901 in the basement and the first public library for blacks was opened there in 1940 by Dulcina DeBerry.

Passenger Depot

  Huntsville, Alabama
  Built 1860
  Memphis and Charleston Railroad Company Eastern Division Headquarters in this passenger depot, adjoining yards and shops captured by Union Army April 11, 1862. Vital east-west Confederate rail link severed; C.S.A. soldiers imprisoned here. Depot later used by Federals as base for gathering supplies for Western Theater military operations. After Civil War returned to M. & C. R.R. Co.; acquired by Southern Railway System 1898; since 1971 preserved by City of Huntsville.
  National Register of Historic Places 1971

POPLAR RIDGE SCHOOL

Poplar Ridge School had its beginning in 1858 as a one-room log building. The existing late Classical Revival frame building was built circa 1875. A late Victorian façade was subsequently added. At one time the school had an enrollment of 100 students. It remained active until 1941, when it was consolidated with New Hope High School. The schoolhouse has also been used as a community center and voting place.
Alabama Register of Landmarks and Heritage - 1990

The Public Inn

 Constructed circa 1818 by John Adams at the NE corner of Madison St. and Williams Ave. Operated as an inn and boarding house by William E. Phillips from 1819-21; believed to have housed some delegates to the nearby Alabama Constitutional Convention in 1819. Original structure probably enlarged by an 1832 addition. The Inn was rolled on logs to this site in1926, and an addition was built on the rear in 1927. One of the few surviving Federal-period frame structures in Huntsville.
 National Register of Historic Places - 1980

Randolph Street Church of Christ

Organized as a Christian Church, this is the original congregation of what is now the church of Christ in Huntsville. A gospel meeting was held in the Courthouse in 1883, conducted by James A. Harding, evangelist and founder of Harding College and David Lipscomb College. This meeting marked the beginning of the church in this community and resulted in the donation of $1,800 for the purchase of the lot. In late 1886, 100,000 bricks were delivered to this site and construction began. The first gospel meeting was held in November 1889, at which time many new members were added to the church. In 1900, members began to refer to themselves as the church of Christ.

ALABAMA HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION 2007

Rison School 1921-1964

  The school, named for mill general manager Archie L. Rison, was the hub of village social life. Cecil Fain, Rison High School principal for 32 years, taught "Discipline Comes From Within." The school, which served educational and social needs of Dallas village for four generations, was located on this site.

Saint Bartley Primitive Baptist Church
Located here 1872-1964

  Oldest Negro congregation in Alabama.
  Organized 1829 by William Harris, a slave, who was minister more than 50 years. Original church, called Huntsville African Baptist, stood 4 blocks south in Old Georgia Graveyard. In 1870, this church and 3 others formed Indian Creek Primitive Baptist Association. Congregation occupied brick church on this site 1872-1964. In 1965, moved to new building 3020 Belafonte Ave., N.W. Present name honors Bartley Harris, saintly second minister. Other pastors: Felix Jordan, Eli Patton, Richard Moore, Amos Robinson.
  Marker erected in 150th anniversary year.

Saint Mary's Church of the Visitation

  Missionaries served Catholics in Huntsville until 1861, when Father Jeremiah F. Trecy was sent by Bishop John Quinlan to organize this parish. Cornerstone for the building was laid in October 1861. Due to the Civil War the church was not completed until 1872. It was dedicated October 1877.
  This parish helped to form three other parishes, parochial schools, and charitable organizations in the community. National Register of Historic Places 1981.

Schiffman Building
Birthplace of Tallulah Bankhead

  This was the original site for a building erected by John Brahan before 1817 known as No. 1& No. 2 Cheapside. Erected circa 1845, the present structure is surviving south third of a Federal-style building. In 1895, the Southern Savings and Loan Association acquired the property, and commissioned Architect George W. Thompson of Nashville, Tennessee to transform the building into Huntsville's only surviving example of Richardsonian Romanesque architecture. Isaac Schiffman purchased the property in 1905. His family's businesses have continued here since that date. The building was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980.

Shiloh United Methodist Church
(Organized 1808)

  In October, 1808, the Western Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church sent James Gwinn, a circuit rider, to the "great bend" of the Tennessee River to formalize existing Methodist Societies. He organized the Flint Circuit to serve frontier settlers in southern Tennessee and Madison County, Mississippi Territory. The first meetings of the Shiloh Methodist Episcopal Church were held in a private home. In late 1819 legislation was enacted which permitted churches to own land and, in 1820, a one-half-acre plot was added in 1876 to construct a new church. That building burned in the mid 1890's. Its replacement was destroyed by fire in 1931. The present edifice was then constructed. Shiloh remained as a circuit charge until late 1953, when it began full-time worship services with B.M. McElroy as pastor. Shiloh provided a school for the community until 1917.

Site of Alabama's First Constitutional Convention

  Here, on July 5, 1819, forty-four delegates from twenty-two counties in the Alabama Territory met to frame a State Constitution which was accepted and signed August 2, 1819. Convention leadership was furnished by two Huntsvillians, John Williams Walker, president, and Clement Comer Clay, chairman of a committee appointed to draft the document. (Located in Huntsville on NW corner Franklin and Gates Streets)

Site of Cabaniss Cotton Spinning Factory

  One mile east of here stood the first known Cotton Spinning Factory in Alabama, erected by Charles Cabaniss in 1817-18. (Located on east side of Meridianville Highway near Fisk)

Site of Ditto's Landing and Town of Whitesburg

  In 1807 pioneer James Ditto began operating a ferry with landings on both sides of the Tennessee River. Early settlers landed here in order to reach their lands in Madison County.
  James White, Salt King of Abingdon, Va., established a thriving port at this location, incorporated as Whitesburg on Dec. 23, 1824.
  Throughout the 19th century this port remained an important cotton shipping center. With the advent of railroads water transportation declined and the town soon disappeared. Its post office closed in 1905.

Site of Huntsville Inn

  A three-story brick building erected before 1817–Here, President James Monroe was honored at a public dinner on June 2, 1819, while on a three-day visit to the Alabama Territory–Here, also, the First Alabama Legislature convened on October 25, 1819, while Huntsville was the first Capital. (Located in Huntsville on East Side of Public Square)

Site of the Huntsville Slave Cemetery

  On September 3, 1818, the Huntsville City Commissioners purchased two acres of land from LeRoy Pope for a "burying ground" for slaves. This cemetery was located within the NE quarter of Section 1, Township 4, Range 1 West of the Base Meridian. It was affectionately known as "Georgia" within the black community. The cemetery continued to be used from 1818 until 1870 when Glenwood Cemetery was designated as the city's burial ground for African Americans. No known records have survived.

Skirmish   2 miles NW on old Limestone Road during a skirmish August 5, 1862, Federal General Robert L. McCook was killed by men of Capt. Frank Gurley's Confederate unit. In retaliation, the Federal forces burned and pillaged the area. (Located at Pelvna on Winchester Road)

Tallulah Bankhead (1902-1968)
Alabama's Best-Known Actress

  Tallulah Bankhead was the toast of the London theater in the 1920's, and nationally renowned for her dramatic roles in "The Little Foxes" (1939), "The Skin of Our Teeth" (1942), the movie "Lifeboat" (1944), and as emcee of "The Big Show" (NBC Radio, 1950-52). She was born in Huntsville on January 31, 1902, in an apartment of the Schiffman building. Her father, then Huntsville City Attorney, was Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives. A ravishing beauty in her youth, Tallulah was known for her uninhibited exuberance, deep sultry voice, and for calling everyone "Dahling." She appeared in 56 plays, 19 movies, and scores of radio and television productions during her 50-year career. She is buried in the churchyard of St. Paul's, Kent County, Maryland.

Temple B'nai Sholom

  Huntsville's first Jewish citizens arrived during the 1840's. Congregation B'nai Sholom ("Sons of Peace") was founded July 30, 1876 by 32 families.
  They affiliated in 1877 with the Union of American Hebrew Congregations, the Reform Movement. Construction of the Temple began in 1898, and it was dedicated on November 26, 1899. Chairman of the Building Committee was Isaac Schiffman. Architecture is primarily of the Romanesque Revival style, with influences of the Renaissance Revival in the west front gable. The Temple was designed by architect R.H. Hunt of Chattanooga. Extensive restoration was completed in 1994. Temple B'nai Sholom is the oldest synagogue in Alabama in continuous use.

The Leroy Pope Mansion, 1814

  During the original Madison County Land Sales of 1809, LeRoy Pope of Petersburg, GA, secured among other purchases a majority of Section 36, Township 3, Range 1 West, the site of the future town of Twickenham, as Huntsville was originally known. Pope created Popular Grove Plantation on this site and erected his home in 1814 in time to entertain Gen. Andrew Jackson on his return from the Battle of Horseshoe Bend. The residence was among the earliest brick structures in Alabama. Inherited by his son, William H. Pope, the mansion was sold in 1848 to Dr. Charles Hays Patton, who commissioned George Steele to add the handsome Classical Revival portico. Nearby during the Civil War, Federal forces built an earthen breastwork to defend the eastern approaches to the city.

Town of Gurley

  Located on land owned by John Gurley, pioneer settler, and named for him. His son, Capt. Frank B. Gurley, became a Confederate hero as a member of the 4th Ala. Cavalry.
  The settlement that developed around the water tank on Memphis and Charleston R.R. was known as Gurley's Tank.
  Post office established in 1866 as Gurleysville and town incorporated as Gurley in 1891.
  Madison County High School located here in 1907.
  Last hometown of Senator and Mrs. C. C. Clay, Jr.

Town of New Market

  Settled by Pioneers early as 1806
  Voting precinct established 1827
  Town incorporated 1837
  George Smith, major landowner of town site, build first log house and established mercantile business, 1814. John Miller excavated millrace, erected gristmill and sawmill, 1819. William Hayter, first Postmaster, 1827-1839.
  Town became a thriving commercial center for a prosperous agricultural community, once known as "The Watercress Capital of the World;" greatly respected for development of religious and educational endeavors, and furnishing political leadership in local and state governments.

Triana

  6 mi. south–Incorporated November 13, 1819–Located on the Tennessee River at the southern terminus of Indian Creek Canal, Triana was a thriving port through which cotton and other produce of Madison County moved to market, prior to establishment of railroads in North Alabama. In 1819, designated one of first six voting precincts in the county. (Located on Huntsville-Decatur Highway at intersection of road to new Airport)

Triana, Alabama

Originally called “The Prairie” by the Chickasaw Indians who settled here, Triana was incorporated November 13, 1819 as the second town in Madison County. The community purportedly was named after Rodrigo de Triana, the crewman who first sighted land while sailing with Christopher Columbus on his first voyage to the Americas. Located on the Tennessee River at the terminus of Indian Creek Canal, Triana was a thriving port through which cotton and other Madison County produce moved to market prior to the building of railroads in North Alabama. Triana was rejuvenated when rechartered July 13, 1964.

Trough Springs

Well known spring in the 1800's where travelers watered horses and livestock before crossing Monte Sano on Big Cove Pike. In late 1863, Captain Lemuel Mead’s Partisan Rangers attacked railroads, wagon trains, and forage parties behind enemy lines in North Alabama and Tennessee. On March 11, 1865, they reorganized as a regiment with the 25th Alabama Cavalry Battalion under Milus E. “Bushwhacker” Johnston. On May 11, 1865, Lt. Colonel Johnston surrendered the combined command to Union Army Colonel William Given at Trough Springs. Heavy rains forced a move into Huntsville to complete the parole process. The springs are located one mile southeast on the Trough Springs Trail.

Twickenham Historic District

  Designated by the city of Huntsville, Alabama, March 23, 1972. This district is a living museum of American architectural styles dating from 1814. It encompasses about one-half of the original town of Twickenham, Huntsville's first official name. Approximate boundaries: North, Randolph Avenue; East, California Street; South, Lowe Avenue; West, Franklin Street. National Historical Register 1973.

Vienna (New Hope)

 Originally known as Cloud’s Town, this community was incorporated in 1832 as Vienna. It prospered as a market town before the Civil War. On May 29, 1864, the 12th Indiana Cavalry, commanded by Lt. Col. Alfred Reed, seized the town. They built a stockade and named it for General Peter J. Osterhaus. The hit-and-run tactics of Confederate Col. Lemuel Mead and Lt. Col. Milus E. (Bushwhacker) Johnston caused Union officers to retaliate by burning Vienna to the ground on December 15, 1864. Only the Masonic Lodge and the Post Office/Tavern remained. By 1883, Vienna was back to its pre-war size and was reincorporated as New Hope.

Side 1
Walnut Grove
Cumberland Presbyterian Church

On July 19, 1847, Christopher and Mary Harless Sears deeded two acres (with meeting house, brush-arbor, and camp-stand) to the Elders of the Walnut Grove Society of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church for one penny. The Union Army burned the original church in 1862. A walnut tree with scars from the fire still bears walnuts. A ring used to tether horses during services has grown into the tree and is still visible. The original bell, hand-dug well, and pre-Civil War cemetery also remain.

Side 2
Walnut Grove
Cumberland Presbyterian Church

The present church was erected after the Civil War. The pews were replaced circa 1926, and Sunday School rooms were added in 1956. In 1992 the tongue-and-grove walls were restored. Membership records include the Smith, Buford, Scroggins, Haden, Woody, Douglas, Overton, and Nichols families.

William Hooper Councill
High School Site, 1892-1966

  The first public school for African-Americans in the city of Huntsville was named for the founder of the Alabama A&M University. The site, selected by a committee headed by the Rev. W.E. Gaston, was donated by the Davis-Lowe family.
  Founded in 1867 in the basement of Lakeside Methodist Episcopal Church on Jefferson Street, the school was moved to a frame building on this site in 1892. The first diplomas were granted in 1912. A brick structure replaced the original building in 1927.
  The school was closed due to integration, graduating its last class in 1966.

• Newspapers on microfilm at ADAH
• Local Government records on microfilm at ADAH
• Vital records on microfilm at ADAH
• County historical and genealogical societies
• Current county highway map from Department of Geography, The University of Alabama