Montgomery - Category of Backgroud

MONTGOMERY 's position, 90 miles south of Birmingham and 160 west of Atlanta, made it a natural political center for the plantation elite, leading to its adoption as state capital in 1846 and temporary capital of the Confederacy fifteen years later. Despite its administrative importance, Montgomery is strangely quiet, largely because many businesses have relocated to the suburbs.

Dannelly Field Airport (tel 334/281-5040) is fifteen miles from downtown on US-80, but the Greyhound station is much more conveniently located at 210 S Court St.

The visitor center is at 300 Water St (MonFri 8.30am5pm, Sat 9am4pm, Sun noon4pm; tel 334/261-1100 or 1-800/240-9452, www.visitingmontgomery.com ). Tours start at Old Alabama Town , an area of restored houses and museums immediately behind (MonSat 9am3.30pm, Sun 13.30pm; $7). All places of interest downtown are easily reached on foot.