Simplify the following text for a Grade 12 native English-speaking person.
Original: During the early period in Albany 's history in mid-19th century , the Monteith family and the Hackleman family were literally and politically on opposite sides of the fence .
Simplified: During the early period in Albany 's history in mid-1800s , the Monteith family and the Hackleman family were literally and politically on opposite sides of the fence .