Newsome Sinks Karst Area, Protected karst formation in Morgan County, Alabama.
Newsome Sinks Karst Area is a protected limestone system in Morgan County with numerous caves carved into Bangor Limestone rock. These underground passages and chambers formed through water dissolving rock over thousands of years, creating a complex network below the surface.
During the Civil War, the site served the Confederacy as a production center where troops mined saltpeter and processed leather before Union forces destroyed it. The land gained formal protected status decades later when it was designated a National Natural Landmark.
The site carries the name of William Newsome, an early settler whose family connection to the land became part of local identity. Today people recognize the place as a protected natural area that reflects long-term efforts to preserve karst environments.
Access requires permission in advance since the land is privately owned, and visitors must follow specific safety guidelines. Bring appropriate gear for exploring underground passages and prepare for uneven terrain and tight spaces in caves.
The cave system harbors rare species adapted to underground life, including specialized fish and bat varieties found in few other places. These creatures reveal how life evolves in total darkness and make the site valuable for understanding hidden ecosystems.
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