Alabama played a central role in some of the most important chapters of American history, from early statehood and frontier settlement to the Civil War and the Civil Rights Movement. Montgomery served as the first capital of the Confederacy. Birmingham and Selma became focal points during the 1960s struggle for voting rights. Today, the state is home to nationally recognized landmarks like Ivy Green in Tuscumbia, Gaineswood in Demopolis, and the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma. Beyond these sites, Alabama also features a number of smaller historic towns worth visiting, each offering preserved architecture, unique heritage, and a deeper look at the state’s past.
1. Mooresville
Nestled just off I-565 in Limestone County, Mooresville is a living museum of early Southern life. Incorporated on November 16, 1818, one year before Alabama achieved statehood, it stands as the state’s oldest incorporated town. The entire village is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, earning it the nickname “Alabama’s Williamsburg.”
Visitors can explore the 1839 Brick Church, a Greek Revival gem built with handmade bricks, and the 1854 Church of Christ, where future President James A. Garfield, who was assassinated, once preached during the Civil War.
The circa 1840 Mooresville Post Office, still in operation, is the oldest in Alabama and among the oldest in the nation. Nearby, the Stagecoach Inn and Tavern, dating to the early 1820s, once served as a rest stop for travelers and now houses the town hall.
With its tree-lined streets, white picket fences, and historic homes, Mooresville offers a serene glimpse into 19th-century life. Guided walking tours led by local residents provide rich insights into the town’s storied past.
2. Eufaula
Eufaula, gracefully perched on the banks of the Chattahoochee River, is a town where history and Southern charm converge. Established in 1834 on the site of former Creek Indian villages, Eufaula blossomed into a prosperous river port, exporting cotton and importing fine goods from distant ports like New York and Liverpool.
The town’s affluence is immortalized in the Seth Lore and Irwinton Historic District, Alabama’s second-largest historic district, boasting over 700 structures that showcase Greek Revival, Italianate, and Victorian architecture. Among these, the Shorter Mansion stands out, a neoclassical masterpiece built in 1884, now serving as a museum that delves into Eufaula’s rich past. Nearby, Fendall Hall, an Italianate-style home completed in 1860, offers a glimpse into 19th-century life with its period furnishings and intricate interior designs.
Eufaula’s unique character is further highlighted by the “Tree That Owns Itself,” a post oak granted ownership of its land in 1935, a symbol of the town’s whimsical spirit. Nature enthusiasts can explore the Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge, a haven for diverse bird species and wildlife. Additionally, Lake Eufaula, known as the “Bass Capital of the World,” offers ample opportunities for fishing and boating.
3. Mentone
Established in the late 19th century, Mentone began as a health resort, attracting visitors to its mineral springs believed to have healing properties. The town’s name, inspired by the French resort Menton, reflects its founders’ vision of a tranquil retreat.
Mentone’s rich history is evident in its landmarks. The Mentone Springs Hotel, built between 1884 and 1887, was once a grand resort that stood for over a century before its unfortunate destruction by fire in 2014. The Dr. J.A. Gorman House, known as the “Hanging Cottage,” showcases early 20th-century architecture and offers panoramic views from its perch on the mountain’s edge.
Nature enthusiasts can explore DeSoto Falls, a stunning 104-foot waterfall carved by the Little River. Nearby, the Old Union Crossing Covered Bridge, originally constructed around 1863, adds historical charm to the landscape.
Mentone’s cultural tapestry includes a legacy of summer camps like Camp DeSoto and Camp Skyline, which have welcomed generations of campers since the early 20th century. The town also embraces its artistic side, with local galleries and shops showcasing regional crafts and artworks.
4. Tuscumbia
Tuscumbia, nestled in the heart of the Shoals region, is a town steeped in history and Southern charm. Founded in the early 19th century, Tuscumbia is perhaps best known as the birthplace of Helen Keller. Her childhood home, Ivy Green, built in 1820, stands as a testament to her remarkable journey from isolation to inspiration. Visitors can explore the main house, the cottage where Helen was born, and the famous water pump where she first communicated with her teacher, Anne Sullivan.
Beyond Ivy Green, Tuscumbia’s historic downtown offers a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved architecture and local shops. The Colbert County Courthouse Square Historic District features structures dating back to the 19th century, including the 1881 courthouse and the Commercial Row buildings from the 1840s. Nearby, the Tuscumbia Historic District encompasses 232 acres of historic homes and buildings, showcasing architectural styles from Queen Anne to Tudor Revival.
For those interested in the broader historical context, the Tuscumbia Landing site marks a poignant chapter in Native American history as part of the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail System.
5. Magnolia Springs
Established around 1800 through a Spanish land grant, Magnolia Springs flourished post-Civil War as families from both the North and South settled along its banks, drawn by the area’s natural beauty and the reputed purity of its spring waters.
Magnolia Springs is renowned for its unique river mail delivery system, the only one of its kind in the United States, where mail is delivered by boat directly to residents’ docks. The town’s historic district, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, features notable landmarks such as the Carpenter Gothic-style St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, consecrated in 1902, and the Governor’s Club, a testament to early 20th-century resort architecture.
Visitors can explore the Magnolia Springs Historic District, encompassing 163 acres of preserved homes and buildings that reflect the town’s rich heritage. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge offers opportunities for birdwatching, kayaking, and enjoying Alabama’s coastal ecosystems.
6. Abbeville
Nestled in Alabama’s Wiregrass region, Abbeville is a town rich in history and Southern charm. Established in the early 19th century, it became the county seat of Henry County in 1833 and was officially incorporated in 1853.
Abbeville’s name is believed to derive from the Muscogee term “Yatta Abba,” meaning “grove of dogwood trees,” reflecting the area’s Native American heritage.
The town boasts several historic landmarks. The Bethune-Kennedy House, a rare Creole cottage built circa 1840, stands as the oldest remaining structure in Abbeville. Another notable site is the Oates House, constructed in the early 20th century and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Abbeville’s downtown area features tree-lined streets and preserved architecture, offering a glimpse into its storied past. Visitors can explore local shops and eateries that contribute to the town’s welcoming atmosphere.
A unique aspect of Abbeville’s culture is the legend of Huggin’ Molly, a folklore figure said to roam the streets at night, embracing unsuspecting individuals.
Abbeville also honors its agricultural roots, particularly its association with peanut farming, which remains a significant part of the local economy.
7. Greensboro
Greensboro, incorporated in 1823, is located in Hale County in the heart of the Black Belt region. The town grew rapidly in the 19th century as cotton production expanded, and many of its original structures remain intact. Greensboro’s downtown area is part of the National Register-listed Greensboro Historic District, which includes a wide range of antebellum and early 20th-century commercial and residential buildings.
One of the town’s most significant landmarks is Magnolia Grove, a Greek Revival mansion built around 1840. It was the boyhood home of Richmond Pearson Hobson, a naval officer and Medal of Honor recipient.
Greensboro is also home to the Safe House Black History Museum, which preserves the legacy of the Civil Rights Movement and occupies the house where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. took shelter in 1968 to evade the Ku Klux Klan.
8. Demopolis
Demopolis, founded in 1817 by French expatriates, is a city rich in history and architectural heritage. The city’s name, meaning “City of the People,” reflects its origins as the Vine and Olive Colony, an ambitious agricultural settlement that ultimately gave way to a thriving river town.
At the heart of Demopolis’s historical significance is Gaineswood, a National Historic Landmark. Constructed between 1843 and 1861 by Nathan Bryan Whitfield, this Greek Revival mansion showcases elaborate domed ceilings and intricate plasterwork, exemplifying antebellum architecture.
Another notable site is Bluff Hall, built in 1832 by Allen Glover for his daughter and son-in-law. Originally designed in the Federal style, it was later modified to incorporate Greek Revival elements. Today, Bluff Hall serves as a museum, offering insights into 19th-century life in Demopolis.
The city’s historic downtown features the Demopolis Town Square, established in 1819. This park, one of Alabama’s oldest public squares, is surrounded by significant structures, including Rooster Hall, a building with a diverse history as a church, courthouse, and theater.
9. Moody’s Chapel (near Courtland)
Moody’s Chapel, located near Courtland in Lawrence County, Alabama, is a historic site with limited publicly available information. While specific details about the chapel’s history and significance are scarce, it is recognized as a notable location within the region.
The surrounding area of Courtland is rich in history, featuring several landmarks listed on the National Register of Historic Places. These include the Courtland Historic District, which encompasses a variety of architectural styles and historical structures, and the John McMahon House, a Federal-style home built around 1830.
Additionally, the nearby Rocky Hill Castle, though demolished in 1961, was once a prominent plantation known for its unique blend of architectural styles and associated folklore.
Visitors interested in exploring the historical context of Moody’s Chapel may find value in touring these nearby sites to gain a broader understanding of the area’s heritage.
10. Marion
Marion, established in 1817 and incorporated in 1819, serves as the county seat of Perry County. Situated in the Black Belt region, the town has a rich history encompassing antebellum architecture, educational institutions, and civil rights heritage.
The town is home to several historic districts listed on the National Register of Historic Places, including the Green Street Historic District, Marion Courthouse Square Historic District, Judson College Historic District, and West Marion Historic District. These districts feature a variety of architectural styles, such as Greek Revival, Gothic Revival, and Tudor Revival, reflecting the town’s development over time.
Notable landmarks include Kenworthy Hall, an Italian Villa-style mansion built between 1858 and 1860, recognized as a National Historic Landmark. Reverie, a Greek Revival mansion constructed circa 1858, now operates as a historic house museum.
Marion has a strong educational legacy, being the original location of Howard College (now Samford University) and home to Judson College, established in 1838. The Marion Military Institute, tracing its origins to 1842, is the nation’s oldest military junior college.
The town also played a significant role in African American education and civil rights. The Lincoln Normal School, founded in 1867, was among the earliest institutions for educating African American teachers and students. The Phillips Memorial Auditorium, built in 1937, stands as a testament to this legacy.
