10,000 Years of Human History- Spotlight on Russell Cave National Monument

Tennessee River Valley Stewardship Council

                                                                                   (Photo: TRV Stewardship Council)

The cave systems of the Tennessee Valley have played a significant role in human history.  Russell Cave National Monument near Bridgeport, Alabama was used for shelter as early as 6500 BCE by the earliest human inhabitants of the southeast through the Mississippian Period (500 CE). When the Cherokee and later the Europeans settled the area, the cave was rarely used. While the cave is closed to further explorations, the National Park Service offers visitors guided tours of the cave shelter and an interpretation center. 

 

The 310-acre park offers shaded picnic areas and facilities. The site is also a stop on the North Alabama Birding Trail. 

 

Learn more.