Sweet Home Alabama

Tuskegee

Tuskegee has been the site of major achievements by African-Americans for more than 100 years. In 1881, Booker T. Washington founded the Tuskegee Normal School for Colored Teachers here, which later became Tuskegee Institute and then Tuskegee University. One of the most famous teachers at Tuskegee was George Washington Carver, whose name is synonymous with innovative research into Southern farming and crops. Today, the university is a part of the National Parks Systems and remains a major center for education. Tuskegee was also home to the famed Tuskegee Airmen, the first squadron of African-American pilots in the U.S. military.

Visitors can tour the Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site at Moton Field

Booker T. Washington's Home, the George Washington Carver Museum, the Tuskegee Heritage Museum

  The Tuskegee Human and Civil Rights Multicultural Center, nearby Macon County Greyhound Park, and the

Tuskegee National Forest which offers varied recreational opportunities.

Visit www.tuskegeecenter.org for more information.

Attractions

  • Butler Chapel AME Zion Church

    Located in the Zion Hill neighborhood, church was focal point for a multi-year grass-roots project that united and empowered African-Americans to fight for the right to vote.

  • Commodores Studio

    This studio,used by the Commodores. Original Commodores outfits and memorabilia are on display. Open by appointment only by calling the Tuskegee Human & Civil Rights Multicultural Center.

  • Commodores Studio Museum

    Original equipment, uniforms, records and other memorabilia relating to the hit recording group The Commodores.

  • Downtown Tuskegee Walking Tour

    Visit historic downtown square and view sites that have long been a part of city's history. Guided tours each Saturday in June.

  • Harris Barrett School

    1903 two-room school, built by students under direction of Dr. Booker T. Washington, houses exposition of local African-Americans education and achievements from the slave ships to the space ships.

Events

  • Tuskegee Memorial Day Fly-In

    May 26, 2012

    May 26, Tuskegee Tuskegee Memorial Day Fly-In 334-727-3200. www.nps.gov/tuai. Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site--Family friendly event focusing on aviation.

  • William Bray Memorial Checker and Domino Tournament

    May 28, 2012

    May 28, Tuskegee William Bray Memorial Checker and Domino Tournament 334-727-3249. Tuskegee Municipal Complex--In this annual event, the competitors use the old checker boards and dominoes, and trophies are presented to the winners at the end of the day. William Bray, Jr. greets his guests and players, and moves around the room making everyone feel welcome. This is truly a unique annual event that has become an important part of the Tuskegee community. The public is welcome to watch the matches. Please call Mr. Bray for more information about entering the tournament at 334-727-3249.

  • National Trails Day

    Jun 2, 2012

    Jun 2, Tuskegee National Trails Day 334-727-2652. Tuskegee National Forest--To celebrate trails on public land, encourage good stewardship, and recognize volunteer efforts on trail maintenance. 7:30 a.m.-noon.

  • National Get Outdoors Day

    Jun 16, 2012

    Jun 16, Tuskegee National Get Outdoors Day 334-727-2652. Tuskegee National Forest--The USDA Forest Service and the American Recreation Coalition lead an inclusive, nationwide effort focusing on a single day when people would be inspired and motivated to get outdoors.Alabama national forests partner with other federal, state and local agencies to celebrate Get Outdoors Day, a national effort to connect Americans with nature and active lifestyles. The Bankhead, Conecuh, Talladega, and Tuskegee National Forests encourage healthy, active outdoor fun through several events. Some recreation sites offer swimming, fishing, picnicking and camping. 7:30am - 12pm

  • National Rosenwald School Conference: 100 Years of Pride, Progress & Preservation

    Jun 14-16, 2012

    The Rosenwald School program developed by Booker T. Washington and supported by Julius Rosenwald resulted in the construction of more than 5,000 buildings in 15 states between 1912-1932. At one time, Alabama had 389 of these schools, along with some shop buildings and teachers' homes. To date, only about two dozen of the buildings or their former sites have been located. This first conference for the preservation of Rosenwald structures will include education sessions, tours and hands-on workshops to assist preservationists in organizing to save these important buildings.

Accommodations

Restaurants

  • Whispering Oaks

    Country buffet featuring six different entrees and a variety of vegetables and desserts. Great Sunday buffet.