Africatown Heritage House: Down here in Mobile, Alabama, we’ve got some exciting news. The Africatown Heritage House is making waves as a nominee in the 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards for Best New Museum. Now, that’s something to be proud of!
Journalists who’ve been around these parts, seen the progress, and soaked in the history nominated this gem. It’s a joint effort by the History Museum of Mobile, Mobile County Commission, and the City of Mobile, and they opened their doors to the public in July 2023.
What makes it stand out? Well, it’s the proud home of “Clotilda: The Exhibit.” This exhibit dives deep into the story of the last known slave ship to hit the New World. Imagine this: 1860, 52 years after the slave trade became illegal, and here comes the Clotilda, carrying 110 souls who would later settle in what we now call Africatown. And get this—it’s the only community in the U.S. entirely run by African-born Americans.
Now, they need our support. The voting started on Monday and runs until December 25 at 10:59 a.m. So, if you’ve got a moment, cast your vote and let the Africatown Heritage House shine.
And if you’re itching to check it out, tickets are up for grabs. It’s $15 for adults, $9 for the seasoned folks aged 65 and older, students over 18 flashing their school IDs, and the active or retired military with their IDs.
Got some little ones? Tickets for kids aged 6-18 are $8, and the tiny tots under 5 get in for free. Oh, and for our Mobile County residents, flash that proof of residency, and you’re in for free too. Of course, a little donation nudge is always appreciated. Come on down, soak in the history, and let’s show some love to Africatown!
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Our Reader’s Queries
Is Africatown still there?
Uncover their remarkable journey of survival, bravery, and their enduring tale of strength as they established the Africatown community, which continues to thrive. Coming Soon. Several organizations are dedicated to safeguarding the legacy of Africatown and championing for the community.
Who owned the ship Clotilda?
The Clotilda, a two-masted wooden ship, belonged to Timothy Meaher, a steamboat captain and shipbuilder. Meaher made a bet with another wealthy white man that he could bring a group of enslaved Africans onto a ship and sail them into Mobile, despite the 1807 Act Prohibiting the Importation of Slaves.
What makes Africatown unique?
AfricaTown stands out for its portrayal of Africans who were forcibly taken from their home, sold into slavery, and then established their own self-governed community, while preserving a deep connection to their African cultural roots.
How many people live in Africatown Alabama?
Africatown once boasted a population exceeding 10,000, but current estimates indicate that the unincorporated area, now located approximately 3 miles north of downtown Mobile, is home to around 1,800 residents.