Welcome to Old Saint Stephens Archaeological Site, a place where the echoes of early American history resonate through time. Located near the Tombigbee River in Alabama, Old St. Stephens was once a bustling riverfront town and the territorial capital of the Alabama Territory. Founded in 1799, this site played a significant role in the early days of European settlement in the southeastern United States.
The town’s strategic location at the fall line of the Tombigbee River made it a hub of activity, where sloops and schooners would dock, bringing settlers and goods to this burgeoning frontier. Under Spanish control in 1789, a fort and outpost were established, and by 1796, the area became a melting pot of cultures, with Choctaw, Cherokee, Creek, French, Spanish, English, and American people all living and working here.
George Strother Gaines, a key figure in the town’s history, was appointed head of the Choctaw Agency in 1805. His efforts in trade and diplomacy were pivotal, as he facilitated interactions between Indigenous peoples and European settlers. The Choctaw Trading House became a vital institution for commerce in the area.
The town thrived from 1810 to 1830, serving as a social and economic powerhouse in the young Alabama Territory. However, changes in transportation routes and the relocation of the territorial capital led to its decline. By the time of the Civil War, Old St. Stephens was abandoned, leaving behind a treasure trove for archaeologists. Today, the site is an active archaeological park, offering a glimpse into the past with artifacts dating back to prehistoric times.
Visitors can explore the remnants of the town, participate in archaeological digs, and take self-guided walking tours. The park also features a 70-acre quarry lake and over 15 miles of trails for hiking and horseback riding. Old St. Stephens may have faded from its former glory, but its history continues to captivate those who visit.
