Interesting on Alabama. Was stationed there about 35-40 years ago (Maxwell AFB, Montgomery) and my son and his family still live there so we visit frequently. Also, did my undergrad in History there, through Troy University at Montgomery (Maxwell branch). Did not take a formal course in AL history, but read quite a bit about the state. I seem to remember that one of the northeastern (mountain) counties where slavery was sparse (land not suited to plantation economy) did declare itself as in secession from the Confederate States (much as occured in eastern TN) and that there was considerable bloodshed over the issue.

Has any of your research in Alabama newspapers run across this bit of WBTS history?