History buffs and true crime fans alike will have the opportunity to explore more obscure parts of Old Cahawba’s history with a True Crime Walking Tour this Saturday.

Old Cahawba was carved from the wilderness in 1819 to become Alabama’s first state capital. 

It transformed from a wild frontier into a prosperous center of wealth and culture where it served as home to some of the most affluent families in the state.

Despite its short-lived grasp on prosperity, civilization, and refinement, Cahawba was a town that had never lost its frontier mentality.

From feuding families delivering street justice to colorful characters threatening to assassinate the President, Cahawba’s corruption will be explored during Saturday’s tour.

“I’m going to focus on some of the criminal activities that occurred down here at Old Cahawba,” said Assistant Site Director Jonathan Mathews. “The town had a shootout between two families. We’ll walk the grounds where this shootout actually occurred.”

Participants will meet at the park’s visitor’s center, rain or shine. Visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes. Tickets are $8 each and available at the Old Cahawba Visitors’ Center.