This virtual is at the Limestone County Courthouse square. Limestone county is steeped in history as is the county seat of Athens. This virtual is just a small part of a larger historical county record. According to the United States Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 607 square miles (1,570 km2), of which 560 square miles (1,500 km2) is land and 47 square miles (120 km2) (7.8%) is water. It is the third smallest county in Alabama by land area. But don't let its size fool you, as of the publishing of this cache, Limestone county is the fastest growing (population wise) in the state of Alabama. I believe this might be the first and only Virtual in the county.
If interested in more area history, look for numerouse Adventure Labs and historical markers throughout the area.
Tasks:
To receive credit for finding this virtual cache there are two (2) Tasks that must be completed. You do not have to enter the Courthouse to accomplish the tasks.
Task #1: Tell me, using Geocaching Message Center or Email, according to the historical sign what is older than what. Your answer should consist of two geogaphical or governmental jurisdictions. The answers will be clear once you read the sign.
Please do not post any photos or hints of the historical sign.
Task #2: Find the old courthouse bell, it is close to the marker (see waypoint). Post a photo of yourself (face not required per geocaching guidelines), your GPSr/smartphone, or one of your geocaching signature items with the bell in the background.
Pictures taken prior to the publication of this geocache are not acceptable.
Virtual Rewards 4.0 - 2024-2025
This Virtual Cache is part of a limited release of Virtuals created between January 17, 2024 and January 17, 2025. Only 4,000 cache owners were given the opportunity to hide a Virtual Cache. Learn more about Virtual Rewards 4.0 on the Geocaching Blog.