Two years earlier (1857) Governor Moore lamented a “want of a proper military spirit, and the absence of any general organization throughout the state.” Organized militia existed in every county, but regular drill and disciple had long been neglected. In 1855 Governor Winston proclaimed the existing system “obsolete” by virtue of public opinion. A. B. Moore had derided the state militia as “a matter of ridicule, unworthy of the name of an organization,” but the scorn of two governors failed to move lawmakers into action.

The Alabama legislature passed the AVC law on Feb. 24, 1860. Lawmakers from both sides of aisle supported the measure. John Forsyth of Mobile reminded his peers that the old militia system had “fallen into disuse and contempt,” leaving the state with no means of defense. Gentlemen might boast of their constituents’ abilities with a rifle, but it took discipline and training to turn a civilian into a soldier. A man might as well attempt to serve as his own lawyer, preacher or physician, said Forsyth.

Each county was to expected to participate in proportion to its free white population, the law requiring that officers and men drill in uniform twelve times a year. At tax of 25 cents on adult male citizens of the state provided a fund used to purchase modern rifles, revolvers and artillery.

When Fort Sumter surrendered and President Lincoln called for troops to suppress the rebellion, eight thousand Alabama volunteers stood ready to confront an invasion. Many had organized, armed and drilled for this occasion months before Lincoln’s election. By May 17, 1861, the state’s AVC register listed 188 companies representing nearly every Alabama county. Most of these well-trained, armed and uniformed commands enrolled for long-term service, forming the nucleus of Alabama’s first twelve Confederate regiments.

I'm currently working on another paper about Governor Moore, the AVC and seizure of the navy yard and bay forts at Pensacola. Afterwards I should be able to answer your questions about Alabama companies in Tennessee regiments.