John G. Cullmann was a German immigrant who conceived the idea of a German colony and proceeded to buy a tract of land in 1872. The first 5 German families arrived by train and within that first year grew to 30 families. The town was so successful that it became the seat of the Alabama legislature after 6 years.
One of Cullman's notable attractions is the Clarkson Covered Bridge, built in 1904, and one of the largest in Alabama. The surrounding area was designated a historic site in memory of the Battle of Hog Mountain in 1863. A picnic area, hiking trails and a non-operating gristmill can be enjoyed by visitors.
The Ave Maria Grotto, known as "Jerusalem in Miniature", features 125 miniature reproductions of some of the most famous historic buildings and shrines from around the world. The lifetime work of Brother Joseph Zoettl, a Benedictine monk of St. Bernard Abbey, the Grotto began as a hobby but know delights visitors as they wind through the hillside.
Address: Ave Maria Grotto, 1600 St Bernard Drive SE, Cullman, AL 35055, United States
Phone: 1 (256) 734-4110, Fax: 1 (256) 737-8768
Hours:
April 1 to September 30: 9am-6pm
October 1 to March 31: 9am-5pm
Always closed on: New Year's Day (January 1), Christmas - Christian (December 25)
Black Warriors' Path was the removal route traveled by 2,500 Creek Indians. The trail was also used by Davy Crockett, who wrote about his travels during the Creek Indian War. Black Warriors' Path began at the head of Elk River Shoals near Melton's Bluff.
Displays at the Evelyn Burrow Museum include rare pieces of Dresden porcelain, antique glass ware, antique furniture, one-of-a-kind statues, and one of the world's largest horse statue collections.
Over 5,000 pieces from around the world were acquired over 65 years by Burrow and her late husband, Ottis.