Old Cahawba
First Capital
State: Alabama
County: Dallas County
Founded: 1820
Abandoned: 1866
Peak Population: 3,000+
Old Cahawba was Alabama's first permanent state capital (1820-1826). The town prospered as a cotton hub but was abandoned after the Civil War due to flooding and a yellow fever epidemic. Today, ruins, cemeteries, and interpretive trails remain.
Plan Your Visit
Best Time: Spring-Fall
Difficulty: Easy
Time Needed: 2 hours
Quick Facts
- Alabama's first permanent capital
- Abandoned after Civil War
- Archaeological park with trails
Location
Address: Old Cahawba Archaeological Park, AL
Coordinates: 32.2833, -87.0833