Baldwin County
Montgomery Hill Landing was once an important river transportation point along the Tensaw River in Baldwin County. During the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, steamboats regularly stopped here carrying passengers, supplies, cotton, timber, and other goods between the plantations of South Alabama and the markets of Mobile. Although not specifically identified as an Old Federal Road marker, sites such as Montgomery Hill Landing helped connect the region’s waterways with the overland routes that shaped early settlement and commerce across South Alabama.
Marker Text
In the late 1800’s and into the early 20th Century, Montgomery Hill Landing was used by local plantations to send and receive goods from Mobile or points north. Huge paddlewheel boats would dock here for loading and unloading. Spices, bolts of material, and ice were popular items to be brought into the area. Corn and baled cotton were major commodities shipped out. Harvested timber would be floated down the river. Travelers heading north and south were also frequent passengers on these large steamboats.
Names of vessels often seen here included “The Nettie Quill” and “The Steamer American.” There was fierce competition between the captains and crews to provide the best and quickest service. Tales of riverboat races and travel have been passed down through generations of local families.
Old Federal Road Project
This marker was photographed and documented as part of the Old Federal Road Project, an ongoing effort to visit and document historic sites, communities, and markers connected to the route of the Old Federal Road across South Alabama.
Location
Montgomery Hill Landing
Baldwin County, Alabama
31.18281, -87.85313