A Stroll Through Montgomery History

Discover the rich history of Montgomery, Alabama, with our "Stroll through Montgomery" history, a blog from Chris’ Famous Hotdogs. From iconic landmarks and beloved attractions to legendary figures and classic restaurants—both past and present—we explore the stories that shaped the Capital City. Whether you're reminiscing about bygone eateries or uncovering hidden gems, our articles bring Montgomery’s vibrant culture to life. Follow along as we celebrate the people, places, and flavors that make this city truly unforgettable. Stay tuned for fascinating tales from Montgomery’s past and present!

Dale's Penthouse fire, Montgomery, AL
By Geoff Stough June 1, 2025
The Dale’s Penthouse fire led to national fire code reforms—and its memory lives on, just blocks from Chris’ Famous Hotdogs, a city landmark.
A black and white photo of a large house with a porch.
By Geoff Stough June 1, 2025
Discover the First White House of the Confederacy, home of Jefferson Davis, preserved in Montgomery with ties to Zelda Sayre Fitzgerald's family.
Stough Furniture Store
By Geoff Stough May 1, 2025
Stough Furniture Store was not one of the larger furniture stores in Montgomery, however, it was a fixture of the community and served people of all economic standings and races.
Old photo of a Montgomery, Alabama with horse drawn carriages in front of Court Square Fountain.
By Geoff Stough May 1, 2025
The fountain at Court Square is a wonderful fixture in downtown Montgomery and a delight to residents and visitors alike.
Lucas Tavern in Old Alabama Town, Montgomery, AL shown with black shutters behind a wooden fence.
By Geoff Stough March 28, 2025
Lucas Tavern, located in Old Alabama Town, is the oldest known structure in Montgomery. The building can be traced to 1818, if not earlier.
A church with a red roof and a white steeple
By Geoff Stough March 28, 2025
St. John’s is considered one of Montgomery, and Alabama’s, most important landmarks. As the oldest Episcopal parish in Montgomery, St. John’s was organized in 1834 by a small group of early Montgomery settlers.
A black and white photo of a trolley going down a montgomery alabama street.
By Geoff Stough March 11, 2025
Since its founding, Montgomery has played an important role in many ways, which continues to this day. As the city grew and prospered, so did city services. Toward the end of the 19th century, several major public improvements were made, one of these being in public transportation.
A black and white photo of a street sign for north perry street, montgomery, al
By Geoff Stough March 11, 2025
The history of how the streets were named is interesting; however, it is doubtful if most people know how the streets received their names.
st peters catholic church montgomery alabama
By Geoff Stough February 1, 2025
Religion has always played an important role in Montgomery. From the time the city was founded in 1819, various denominations began forming, sharing a common building until an individual structure could be completed or meeting in homes.
A black and white photo of a city street with horse drawn carriages
By Geoff Stough January 1, 2025
The town of Montgomery was established on December 3, 1819, the same year Alabama became a state. How did Montgomery have its beginning? Who hasn’t driven the streets of downtown Montgomery and wondered why the streets are so oddly drawn? The best place to start is always at the beginning. Two men purchased land located in Montgomery County, which was organized out of the Mississippi Territory in 1816.