The Free State of Winston is a popular name given to Civil War-era Winston County, because of the county’s generally pro-Union stance and resistance to Confederate rule. Unionists opposed secession and formed home guard companies to defend themselves against Confederates. Many made their way north and joined the Union Army. Although the unionists wanted to be left alone, Alabama did not oblige and it was the scene of violent acts of retribution both during and after the war.
Free State of Winston
North Alabama | September 2017