Montgomery is the capital of the State of Alabama. The City was founded in 1819 following the merger of two towns, but only achieved capital status twenty-seven years later. In addition to being home to many government buildings, Montgomery is also host to several universities and colleges, many high-end manufacturers, and a large military contingent at the Maxwell Air Base.
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Here are a few great places to visit when in Montgomery:
Alabama War Memorial
The Alabama War Memorial was built to honor the citizens of Alabama who died while fighting to protect their state and country.
F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum
The F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum is located in the house where the couple lived while the great man was penning Tender is the Night and Save Me the Waltz. Two rooms are dedicated to Zelda who was a native of Montgomery, while the rest of the museum contains fascinating exhibits of the author’s memorabilia.
The First White House of the Confederacy
The First White House was the home of Jefferson Davis and his family after his inauguration 1861 until the capital was moved from Montgomery to Richmond, Virginia. Later, the house was relocated to its present location ten blocks away, where it has been restored and now displays many items donated by the great man’s wife, including personal property, period furnishings, and war relics.
St. John’s Episcopal Church
The St. John’s Episcopal Church was erected in 1834 by a group of faithful pioneer settlers. By 1837, all forty-eight pews were in use and by 1855 the faithful built a second church down the road. Both were closed during the Civil War by order of the Union Army, but reopened in 1866.
Old Alabama Town
The Old Alabama Town features authentic 19th and early 20th century buildings. After being saved from demolition, the homes and buildings were restored and later opened as a museum. On display are a fine 1850’s triple storey townhouse, a country doctor’s office, slave quarters, a blacksmith’s shop, and a cotton gin. Visitors can go on a guided tour or explore the village at their own pace.
Jasmine Hill Gardens
Jasmine Hill Gardens is an outdoor sculpture museum covering twenty acres and featuring accurate reproductions of famous classical Greek sculptures, including Olympic heroes and mythical Gods, as well as a full-scale replica of the romantic ruins of the Temple of Hera.
Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts
The Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts was established in 1930 and includes 19th and 20th century American art and sculptures, prints of old masters, and decorative art.
Alabama Shakespeare Festival
The Alabama Shakespeare Festival offers year-round presentations of classic and modern plays in the 750 seat Festival Stage and the smaller 225 seat Octagon.
Alabama State Archives and History Museum
The State Archives and History Museum depict the history of Alabama. Displays include Indian and pioneer artifacts as well as items from former Vice President William Rufus King.
Despite its troubled times during the Civil Rights Movement, today Montgomery is a peaceful and progressive place. The City is waiting for your visit.