Hayes Lowe
Camps
Fri Sep 15 14:48:48 2000


I know of three, but do not know the names of them.

The first is located in Reform, Ala. It was located on Hopewell Hill (in the spot that the water tower for Reform is now located). It was used for drilling new recruits. I do not know if it was considered at camp of instruction, or not. (Units using this site are unknown, at least to me. My best guess would be certain companies of the 41st Ala. Inf.)

The second was in Tuscaloosa. It was a camp of instruction from indications that I have seen. I do not know the physical location, but my best guess that it was located on the spot that University Mall is now located. Tuscaloosa also had a supply depot, which may have been located at the camp. There was also a P.O.W. camp that existed in Tuscaloosa early in the war, and it too may have been at the same location. I just don't know, but maybe some records exist that would indicate where these facilities were located. (Many units were formed at the Tuscaloosa camp.)

A third camp was located at Olney, Ala., in southern Pickens Co. From what I have seen in the records, it could best be described as a permanant recruitment camp. It may have also been a supply depot. I know that a store located there was contracted directly with Gen. Forrest for supplying the needs of his cavalry. (Many units were formed at the Olney camp.)

I can't remember if this one was on your list, or not: Talladega Camp of Instruction.