13 American Towns That Literally Vanished But Left Eerie Legacies Behind
3. Cahawba, Alabama: The Forgotten Capital
Once the capital of Alabama, Cahawba is now a haunting testament to the capricious nature of political and economic fortune. Established in 1820, Cahawba thrived as a bustling river town and political center. However, its low-lying location made it prone to flooding, leading to its eventual abandonment as the state capital in 1826. Despite attempts to revive the town, repeated floods and the Civil War further hastened its decline. By the early 20th century, Cahawba was largely deserted, leaving behind ruins and a few scattered structures. Today, the site is preserved as Old Cahawba Archaeological Park, where visitors can explore the remnants of the once-thriving town. The eerie beauty of Cahawba's ruins serves as a poignant reminder of the impermanence of human achievement and the relentless power of nature.
