Visitors aren't just visitors at Old Cahawba.
They're explorers!
The archaeological park located at the confluence of the Cahaba and Alabama
rivers was best known as Alabama's first state capital (1819-1826),
but in the 16th Century, it served as an Indian village. Then, in the 1800s,
Cahawba became a wealthy town with some 3,000 residents.
During the War Between the States, a federal prison housed Union soldiers,
and after the war, emancipated slaves took refuge there.
Now a ghost town, St. Luke's Episcopal Church (recently moved back
to Old Cahawba) greets guests as they enter the park.
At right above stand brick pillars that are all that remain of the Crocheron home
and store that overlooked the rivers. Below at right sits the Perine
artesian well which furnished air conditioning to the Perine mansion.
Linking to Mosaic Monday
Such a fascinating place to visit, the history stretches back hundreds of years, what stories there must be within those grounds. The church is simple but full of grace, like a cathedral barn!
ReplyDeleteHappy Mosaic Monday.
We missed this part of history on our visits somehow. Fascinating .... I wish we could visit Alabama again ....sigh, so many places, so little time ;))
ReplyDeleteWhat a lot of history in Selma. The church with its extremely steep roof seems very imposing. Where was it moved from? The unfinished wood exterior looks very striking.
ReplyDeleteHow interesting to drive out and see something this unique! Love that weathered wood! Hugs!
ReplyDeleteLorrie, The church was originally built in Cahawba then moved nearby. About 10 years ago, it was moved back to Cahawba as part of the archaeological park. Its Carpenter Gothic design was by Richard Upjohn of New York who also designed other country churches (St. Andrews (Little Red Church) in Gallion, Ala.) and Trinity Church in NYC. Thanks for asking!
ReplyDeleteThe steepness of the church roof particularly stands out!
ReplyDeleteThis is gorgeous! Seriously!
ReplyDeleteThat is a beautiful old church - wishing you a lovely week!
ReplyDeleteIt's a magnificent old Church - I imagine the high steep roof allowed wonderful acoustics.
ReplyDeleteSo much history in these southern states.
Just discovered this blog through City Daily Photo. Fascinating history of a beautiful city I am just discovering through photos. Delightful!
ReplyDelete