The earliest newspapers that we have any record of are the Alabame Enquirer 1887-1901. These have been published in Tid-Bits Vol I. The New Decatur Advertiser 1890, 1901-1906 has been published in Tid-Bits Vol II. The New Decatur Advertiser 1907-1912 has been published in Tid-Bits Vol III. These can be purchased from the Morgan County Gen Soc. Madison Co had earlier newspapers but as far as I know no one has transcribed any of them, except for what was published in Alabama Records by Mrs Gandrud. You might be able to find some info on your ancestors from them. Dene Walls