DECATUR, Ala. — A historic marker commemorating the African American heritage of Old Town, Decatur’s oldest neighborhood, was vandalized last week, raising concerns about the preservation of the city’s rich cultural history. Authorities are investigating the incident, which occurred on March 24.
Old Town holds a significant place in Decatur’s history as a hub for African American life and resilience. Established in 1821, it became home to freed slaves after the Civil War and later flourished as a center of Black entrepreneurship and activism during the Jim Crow era. The neighborhood played pivotal roles in landmark events such as the Scottsboro Boys trials, where local African Americans challenged systemic racism in jury selection.
Despite urban renewal efforts that erased much of Old Town’s physical footprint, its legacy endures through surviving landmarks like First Missionary Baptist Church and Wayman Chapel AME Church. These institutions served as rallying points during civil rights struggles, including protests following the arrest of Tommy Lee Hines in the 1970s.
The vandalism is not an isolated incident in Decatur’s history. Tensions over race and historical memory have surfaced periodically, reflecting broader challenges faced by communities reckoning with their past. The damaged marker was part of ongoing efforts to honor Old Town’s contributions to Decatur’s identity.
Community leaders have expressed outrage over the act and called for renewed vigilance in protecting historical sites that celebrate African American achievements. The incident underscores the importance of preserving Decatur’s diverse heritage amidst ongoing efforts to promote understanding and reconciliation.