Tapestry in Alabama Space Odyssey: Step back in time with the unveiling of McThornmor Acres’ National Register of Historic Places marker on Nov. 19, a symbolic moment occurring nearly two years after its addition to the register.
This historic neighborhood holds a unique distinction it is believed to be the first neighborhood in Alabama associated with the U.S. space race to secure a spot on the register. Notably, it was home to the engineers and technicians integral to the monumental effort that successfully landed a man on the moon.
Delving into the roots of McThornmor Acres, an intriguing detail emerges. Contrary to popular knowledge, the neighborhood derives its name from five Huntsville residents who played pivotal roles in its establishment during the post-World War II housing boom. This surge in housing development was propelled by the ongoing work at Redstone Arsenal, a significant contributor to America’s space endeavors.
Unveiling historical records cited in the application for the U.S. National Park Service’s register, it becomes apparent that the area was initially depicted as undeveloped on a 1941 map by the planning commission, likely serving as farmland. Even as late as 1951, a map titled “City of Huntsville, Alabama Proposed Natural Gas System” continued to label the area as “farming.
McThornmor Acres not only stands as a witness to Huntsville’s growth but also holds a key role in shaping the trajectory of America’s space exploration history.
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