By 1818 land speculation and sales by such agencies as the Cypress Land Company.

Following the Panic of 1819, Congress passed the Land Act of 1820 which had further impact on settlement. An overview of the business and economic history related to settlement and farming/agriculture illustrates the relationship between them.

Mills and Textiles

Beginning ca. 1821, the manufacturing of cotton and woolen textiles became one of the most important industries in the Muscle Shoals for many years.  Mills in Sweetwater and area included:

1821 Sweet Water Factory

1836 Skipworth Cotton Mill

1837 Foster’s Cotton Factory

1839 Martin’s Mill

1844 Cypress Mill

1845 The Lauderdale Factory