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By NOAH WORTHAM | Managing Editor

MONTEVALLO – On Sunday, Oct. 20, members of the Montevallo community will gather together and honor local Black history by dedicating the first three markers of the Montevallo African American Heritage Trail.

On Oct. 2, Montevallo Mayor Rusty Nix along with the Montevallo Historic Preservation Commission and Montevallo Legacy Project announced that the first three historic markers for the Montevallo African American Heritage Trail have been received.

A program, dedication and reception to celebrate the installment of plaques will be held on Oct. 20 at 1:30 p.m. with the first plaque at Ward Chapel AME Church in Montevallo which is located at 765 West Street. The event will continue with the second plaque at The Mason Hall at 160 Commerce Street and conclude with the final plaque and reception at Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church at 305 Selma Street.

During the event, musical entertainment will be provided by Zachary Banks and the Ward Chapel AME Church Choir.

“This event marks a significant step in our efforts to honor and preserve the rich history of Montevallo’s African American communities,” read an official release by the Montevallo Legacy project.

A larger, two-sided marker has also been ordered for the corner of Island Street and Bloch Alley. According to the Montevallo Legacy Project, the area was once the hub of a Black neighborhood known as Jacksonville.

The Montevallo African American Heritage Trail was officially adopted by the city in August 2022. The trail utilizes markers, plaques and other signage alongside digital resources to honor sites of Black history and culture in Montevallo.

“MLP is dedicated to uncovering, preserving and sharing stories about African American history, culture and experience in our town,” read a statement by the Montevallo Legacy Project on its website. “The trail will provide a fuller, more richly textured local history to serve as a legacy for young people and future generations.”

Those interested in learning more and viewing the digital map of the trail may visit Themontevallolegacyproject.com/african-american-heritage-trail.