“a place of importance” - Union Leadership at Decatur

Morgan County, Alabama has a rich and diverse history that stretches back thousands of years. The area was once home to Native American tribes, including the Cherokee and Creek, who utilized the ample natural resources of the Tennessee River Valley. European settlers arrived in the late 18th century, with the city of Decatur being founded in 1820.

During the Civil War, Morgan County played a significant role as it was strategically located along the Tennessee River. The Battle of Decatur in October 1864 saw Union forces successfully repel Confederate attacks and secure the city. The river also allowed for the transportation of troops and supplies, making it a crucial area for both sides throughout the war.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the agricultural industry, particularly cotton farming, boomed in Morgan County. The region's fertile soil and access to the Tennessee River made it an ideal location for agriculture. With the construction of railroads in the late 1800s, Decatur became an important transportation hub, further driving economic growth.

In the 20th century, the development of Redstone Arsenal near Huntsville brought a significant military presence to Morgan County. The arsenal was initially established as a chemical weapons facility but later transitioned into a center for rocket research and development, with the formation of NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center. This marked the beginning of the area's transformation into a leading center for aerospace and technology, which continues to drive the local economy today.