Located about thirty miles north of Scottsboro is Alabama’s only National Monument, Russell Cave. Archaeologists have documented the use of the cave as a shelter for prehistoric people going back 10,000 years. Russell Cave gives visitors the chance to learn about the ways of life of these people, as well as do a little cave exploring.
Native Americans used Russell Cave for shelter from the elements. The cave entrance faces east, away from the cold winter winds. The surrounding area provided many animals to hunt and a good water source nearby. The abundance of deer, black bears, wild turkeys, squirrels, and fish from the nearby streams gave the inhabitants plenty to eat. Various styles of arrows and spearheads found in the cave indicate that it was used by different groups of people. Some groups of people may have used the cave as a refuge for extended periods of time. Others may have used it as a shelter for seasonal game. Archaeologists have found 24 burial sites in the cave, from babies to adults.
Initial excavations at Russell Cave were conducted in 1953 by members of the Tennessee Archaeological Society. A tract of land containing the cave was purchased from a private owner in 1956 by the National Geographic Society. They funded a Smithsonian Institution excavation between 1956 and 1958. In 1958, the National Geographic Society donated the land to the American people, and in 1961, President Kennedy established Russell Cave National Monument.
The Visitors Center has a museum containing artifacts from the excavations. They include weapons, jewelry, pottery, and tools from the prehistoric peoples who used the cave as a refuge. The Visitor Center also shows videos about the park and its first inhabitants. Also currently showing the new Ken Burns movie. National Parks: America’s Best Idea.
Cave tours are led by interpretive rangers from the National Park Service. They also offer special programs throughout the year. On September 18 they will present “Slithery Sliders,” a program that teaches visitors to identify venomous and non-venomous snakes native to the area. Each spring a Native American festival is held in the park.
Russell Cave National Monument is open year-round from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm No admission fee. Picnic areas are available in the park. When visiting Scottsboro, Alabama, plan a day trip to nearby Russell Cave.