As the birthplace of the Confederacy, Montgomery is rich in Civil War history. Watch the events unfold that lead to the call to fire on Fort Sumter, tour the actual home Jefferson Davis shared with his family while President of the Confederate States and witness the remarkable dedication of so many brave soldiers.
Day One
Every visit to Montgomery starts at this splendidly preserved train station, where tourists can enjoy a quick video highlighting things to see and do in Montgomery, and pick up brochures and other information. Visitors should stop at Montgomery’s official unique Gift Shop for memorable souvenirs!
Free admission.
The Capitol was constructed in l846 and became the first capitol of the Confederacy on February l8, l86l. A gold star in front of the Capitol marks the spot where Jefferson Davis, the first and only president of the Confederacy, stood to take his oath of office.
Free admission.
11:30 Confederate Memorial
The Confederate Memorial is located on the northern part of the lawn of the State Capitol. Jefferson Davis returned to Montgomery for the last time in April of l886 to lay the cornerstone of this beautiful monument.
Free admission.
12:30 Lunch
Downtown offers a variety of local favorites. Choices include Cuco’s Mexican Café Express, the Four Seasons at Capitol Inn or Mama’s Sack Lunch.
Located across Washington Street from the Capitol, Jefferson Davis’ family lived in this house for 3 months before the decision was made to move the capitol to Richmond, VA.
Free admission.
3:30 The Confederate Post Office
Located on the corner of Washington and Perry Streets, it was the only post office that actually was profitable. It was the only building in Montgomery that was built as an earthquake-proof building.
4:00 The Winter Building
Located at 2 Dexter Avenue, this is where the telegram was sent from the Confederate Secretary of War, I.P. Walker, to Charleston, SC, authorizing the Confederate General to fire on Fort Sumter the next day. General Beauregard began the bombardment of Fort Sumter the very next day, marking the start of the Civil War.
5:00 Dinner
Visit The Alley Entertainment District and enjoy great southern BBQ at Dreamland or casual Italian at Sa Za’s.
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Day Two
Located on the corner of Madison and Perry Streets, Jefferson Davis’ family attended this church while here in Montgomery. The original pew where they worshiped is still in the church.
Free admission.
The State of Alabama Department of Archives and History displays many artifacts from the Civil War.
Free admission.
11:45 Lunch
Enjoy a local café, Cool Beans at Café d’Art or Silver Spoon Café.
1:00 Alabama’s Confederate Prison
Near the corner of Coosa and Tallapoosa Streets from mid-April to December l862, a confederate military prison held 700 Union soldiers most captured at Shiloh. Nearly l98 died in captivity, the survivors were moved to Tuscaloosa, AL, in December l862. A historic marker is located on this corner, outside of Riverwalk Stadium.
1:45 Oakwood Cemetery
Many Confederate soldiers’ gravesites are located in this cemetery.
First White House of the Confederacy This 1835 Italiante-style house served as executive residence of President Jefferson Davis and his family while the Capital of the Confederacy was located in Montgomery. This home is beautifully furnished with original period pieces.
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