Huntsville is one of the oldest and most revered cities in the Lone Star State. Founded in the mid-1830s as Texans won their independence from Mexico, Huntsville became the home of Sam Houston--the first president of the Republic of Texas and later governor of the state. Nestled among the lakes and trees of the eastern piney woods, Huntsville emerged as a vital center of education and justice in the late 19th century. Today the city remains a vibrant, growing community known for a few of its largest employers, including Sam Houston State University and the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

Huntsville has served as the unofficial capital of north Alabama since the early 19th century. Yet Huntsville continued to redefine itself and remain relevant in regional, national, and international affairs. Settled by John Hunt and developed by ambitious cotton planters, enterprising merchants and professionals, and thousands of families looking for new opportunities in the rich farmland, Huntsville has continued to grow and prosper as 21st-century corporations and government agencies develop new technologies that make the city the center of space and defense-related industries in the South. The city has endured military occupation, storms, financial panics, and the constant threat of economic and social stagnation that occurred in so many communities across the South. This positive spirit makes Huntsville a special place for residents and visitors alike. Images of America: Huntsville hopes to capture the uniqueness of the city while simultaneously acknowledging some mistakes that have been made in the past.

From being the first incorporated city and the first capitol of Alabama, to becoming one of the nation's largest space program facilities, Historic Photos of Huntsville is a photographic history collected from the areas top archives. With around 200 photographs, many of which have never been published, this beautiful coffee table book shows the historical growth from the mid 1800's to the late 1900's of the ?Rocket City? in stunning black and white photography. The book follows life, government, events and people important to Huntsville history and the building of this unique city. Spanning over two centuries and two hundred photographs, this is a must have for any long-time resident or history lover of Huntsville!