Category Archives: Birmingham Landmarks

Architecture, Birmingham Historical Society, Birmingham Landmarks, City of Birmingham, Highland Avenue, Historic Preservation, Neighborhoods, Publications, Research, Southside

What’s the National Register?

Ever thought about what historic organizations do and how they do it? What’s the organizational hierarchy?

  1. Federal Agencies
  2. Non Profit Organizations
  3. State Organizations
  4. Local Historical Organizations

Curious to learn more about a historic property? Living in a historic district, maybe? Let’s start with the National Register and answer those questions!

Federal Agencies & Non Profits

The National Register is a federal agency1 supported by tax dollars that promotes the restoration of significant historic properties. It maintains the official list of historic places in the United States worthy of preservation and is managed by the National Park Service.

It is NOT related to the National Trust for Historic Preservation which is a non-profit organization2 privately supported by their membership which advocates for historic properties. However, they do not manage nor approve register listings.

State

Properties included on the National Register must first be nominated or approved by state organizations3 and are subject to state laws, which in Alabama is the Alabama Historical Commission. Generally, nominated properties are at least 50 years old unless they are exceptionally important.

Local Historical Organizations

Birmingham Historical Society is among the local historical organizations4 which take great pride in their cities, researching their surroundings to educate and make recommendations about significant historic properties and people. It is often involved in the nomination process of historic properties and districts. Available publications document their research since their start in 1942.

In November of 2022, Birmingham Historical Society moved to the Southside area in the Highland Avenue Historic District near the Rhodes Park, Chestnut Hill, Country Club, Milner Heights, and Hanover Place Historic Districts.

Since that time, we’ve enjoyed exploring our new home in more depth. Our Highland Avenue neighbor, Randy Merritt, has been documenting the remaining historic homes on Highland Avenue as well as collecting archival photos of those that have been demolished.

The assortment tells the story of Birmingham’s pioneering residents whose strong belief propelled the city’s growth. It’s a tale of architectural innovation, economic power, social norms, financial successes, and the complex local politics of that time.

So, whether intrigued by the people, the location, the event, or by the lessons learned, history at all levels creates a compelling story worth preserving and telling. Grateful for the organizations that continue to tell those stories! One can’t help but appreciate the efforts of all of the organizations dedicated to upholding and conveying this history.

Below shows some of the process in registering the Highland Avenue Historic District. The Birmingham Historical Society offices are on the ground floor retail space in what was originally the Altamont Apartment Building on lot #4 on diagram below.

Birmingham Landmarks, Historic Preservation

Don’t Miss the Lighting of Sloss July 23rd

Historic Sloss Furnaces, an iconic Birmingham landmark and a lasting tribute to Birmingham’s industrial beginnings, will be permanently illuminated on July 23rd! This free event and celebration is thanks to the contributions of a corporate donor and Cathy & Paul Jones, You must REGISTER to attend. The public celebration and lighting ceremony will also include 1,000 feet under the 1st Avenue North viaduct.

Sloss Furnaces is a National Historic Landmark that operated until 1971. After closing, it became one of the first industrial sites in the United States to be preserved for public use. Act No. 517 was a crucial piece of local legislation enacted by the Alabama State Legislature in 1973 that granted the City of Birmingham the police power to halt the demolition of historic properties and mandate changes to buildings. 

Why Act No. 517 Matters

In the 1970s, Birmingham’s industrial sector experienced a sharp decline. As a result, many massive, abandoned 19th-century and 20th-century industrial facilities—like the sprawling Sloss Furnaces—were slated for total demolition. (Birmingham’s Terminal Station was demolished in 1969.)

Many thanks to photographer Steve Dunlap for giving us a preview of the extensive lighting project!

At the time, grassroots organizations and the Birmingham Historical Society recognized the profound historical and economic importance of saving these remnants of America’s industrial growth. Using the legal tools provided by Act 517, the city was able to freeze demolitions, secure the land, and prevent the loss of Birmingham’s signature “Iron Empire”. Let’s celebrate this historic landmark on July 23rd!

For more information about Birmingham’s industrial era, please refer to The Birmingham District: An Industrial History and Guide

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The Story Behind Morris Avenue and Birmingham Preservation

In the early 1970’s, because Alabama’s strict 1901 Constitution severely limited municipal power, Birmingham could not simply pass a city ordinance to enforce historic preservation or restrict property modifications. A bill, sponsored locally by State Senator Richard Dominick and pushed through the House under Speaker Jimmy Clark, Act No. 517 legally empowered the City of Birmingham to establish its own regulatory bodies, leading to the formation of the Birmingham Historical Commission and its Architectural Review/Design Review frameworks.

The 1973 legislative authority was specifically engineered to save and legally protect Birmingham’s rapidly disappearing downtown architectural footprint. (Birmingham’s Terminal Station was demolished in 1969.) The very first project to utilize these new legal and financial protections was:

The Morris Avenue Historic District: This was the fundamental “pilot project” for the 1973 legislation. Morris Avenue was Birmingham’s original 19th-century commercial wholesaling district, filled with cobblestone streets and heavy brick warehouses. Under the new legal framework, the city successfully blocked demolition and forced exterior design reviews, transforming it into the city’s first revitalized historic office and entertainment district.

It’s the very birthplace of Birmingham’s historic preservation movement and serves as an example of how state legislation, local activist energy, and real estate development collided in the early 1970s. By the late 1960s, Morris Avenue sat largely vacant and decaying. Because it was right next to the downtown railroad tracks, there was immense pressure to clear the old masonry warehouses for modern industrial use, surface parking, or highway infrastructure. 

When local preservationists stepped in to save the iconic cobblestone street and structures, they realized the city had no legal authority to stop property owners from tearing them down. Act 517  was custom-tailored to fix this exact crisis. It gave the city the police power to freeze demolitions and legally mandate that any changes to building exteriors pass a design review board.

The newly formed Jefferson County Historical Commission hurried to establish the district boundaries and in 1973, preservationists successfully placed the Morris Avenue–First Avenue North Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places. This was the critical first step required to unlock the federal tax incentives and municipal protections granted under the new state framework.

Bob Moody was the visionary designer and artist who created the original conceptual blueprint and visual pitch that saved Morris Avenue from demolition.  Moody provided the aesthetic inspiration that convinced city leaders, property owners, and investors that the decaying warehouse district was worth saving. 

His involvement can be broken down into three critical phases:

1. The “Underground Atlanta” Concept (Late 1960s)

In the late 1960s, Morris Avenue was widely viewed as an eyesore destined to be razed for surface parking lots. Moody—a multi-talented designer with a background in architecture who had previously worked for NASA—saw things differently. Inspired by historic entertainment revivals like Gaslight Square in St. Louis and Underground Atlanta, Moody envisioned transforming the old warehouses into a bustling district of restaurants, nightclubs, and shops. 

2. The Power of Watercolor Renderings

Because city leaders and investors could not visualize how grimy, abandoned industrial structures could become a premier destination, Moody used his extraordinary skill as a watercolorist. He sketched and painted vivid architectural renderings of a reimagined Morris Avenue. 

  • The Visual Pitch: His paintings featured gas lantern streetlights, active storefronts, and outdoor patrons walking along the avenue’s historic paving blocks. 
  • The Impact: Moody openly stated that if it wasn’t for those watercolor renderings to sway public opinion and secure backing from civic groups like Operation New Birmingham, the entire area would have been flattened into a giant parking lot. 

3. Executing the Restorations (1974 and Beyond)

After the 1973 legislative framework was passed, Moody founded his own firm, Moody & Associates, in 1974. He transitioned from conceptual visionary to hands-on preservationist. Over the next several decades, his firm provided the interior design and architectural plans for more than 40 historic restoration and “Cinderella stories” adaptive reuse projects throughout downtown Birmingham, working alongside real estate partner John Lauriello. 

His legacy is preserved today through the Birmingham Historical Society, which published a collection of his historical urban artwork titled Bob Moody’s Birmingham: A City in Watercolor

Mercantile on Morris July 2026, as tomorrow’s history is made today

Today, many of the buildings are occupied by restaurants and offices. One of the more ambitious projects is The Mercantile on Morris Building. Developed by Orchestra Partners, it’s a mixed use project with a plaza linking Morris Avenue to 1st Avenue North, containing 47 condominiums and 12,000 square feet of retail.

Morris Avenue Gazette page 1
Morris Avenue conceptual promotion 1973
Morris Avenue Gazette pg. 2
Morris Avenue conceptual promotion 1973
Fireworks from the Mercantile on Morris looking toward Vulcan July 2026! Here’s to preserving tomorrow’s history!
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Follow the Gaps for Railways, Hiking Trails, and Roadways!

Did you know that there are over 9 wind or water gaps in the Birmingham vicinity? The interactive topographical map below locates and names the gaps, many of which formed the rail bed for the Birmingham Mineral Railroad. Others form hiking trails today including the popular Grace’s Gap hiking trail at Red Mountain Park and the historic Brock’s Gap in Hoover.

Click on the location or select the name of the gap in the list following the map for more information on its location, elevation, and in some cases, water source. Thanks to John Troulias for finding the map and James Lowery for sharing it with Birmingham Historical Society.

At least nine gaps are located in the immediate vicinity of Birmingham . Thanks to John Troulias for finding the map and James Lowery for sharing it with Birmingham Historical Society.

The 4.2-mile Grace’s Gap Overlook trail in Red Mountain Park features sweeping valley views and abandoned mining ruins.

Nineteen gaps are located within Birmingham metro area with an additional eleven outside Interstate 459. Click on map above and select location for detailed information.

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Celebrating the Washingtons

(above) U.S. Pres. George and first lady Martha Washington“Washington at Home,” engraving by H. B. Hall after a painting by Alonzo Cappel, c. 1867.

In celebration of the 250th anniversary of Independence Day, the July 2026 newsletter of Birmingham Historical Society explores the links between George and Martha Washington and the places, residences, food, and artifacts that memorialize them locally.

A prefabricated home plan of Washington’s home, Mount Vernon, was available in the Sears & Roebuck catalogue by 1932, and two residential replicas were constructed in Mountain Brook; one on Mountain Brook Parkway and the other on Fairway Drive. A look-alike building named Washington Hall at American Village in Montevallo, Alabama contains 3 spaces related to the birth of the nation: the Grand Foyer, the Assembly Room, and the Mount Vernon room.

It was in the Assembly Room…”that Washington was appointed Commander-in-Chief of The Continental Army, and on July 4, 1776, The Declaration of Independence was adopted. In the same space, The U. S. Flag was agreed upon and The Articles of Confederation approved. Here also, The Constitutional Convention occurred in 1787, with Washington pressing from The Rising Sun Chair.” (Historical Marker Database)

“The Mount Vernon Room was inspired by what Washington called “The New Room.” It represents the place where on April 14, 1789, he was informed that he had been unanimously elected as The First President of the United States.” (Historical Marker Database)

Montevallo’s American Village now boasts the finest collection of Washington family memorabilia outside of Mount Vernon including almost 1,000 items purchased from Shelby County residents.

Included in the July 2026 BHS newsletter, is the complete recipe of Martha Washington’s Great Cake which was served at her wedding anniversary every year. Baked for 5 ½ hours and serving 40 people, the recipe was passed on to her granddaughter and was eventually adapted and published by culinary historian, Nancy Carter Crump.

Note that this version was served at the Birmingham Historical Society’s 2026 Annual Meeting!

It’s well known that George Washington suffered from dental problems throughout his life which may have contributed to his death. Another noted local link to the Washingtons includes UAB’s Reynolds-Finley Historical Library which contains his letters to dentists, confirming Washington’s lifelong trouble with his teeth.

Finally, the July BHS newsletter tributes a number of Revolutionary War soldiers who settled in Jefferson County and lists Alabama Places named for Revolutionary War Era Figures and Battles.

To receive detailed historical information in periodic newsletters like this as well as invitations to special events and lectures, please consider joining BHS. Return this form below or click HERE for more information.

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Symphony of Elements: A Free Tribute to Metal Art and Science

Opening May 23rd, this exhibit by The Symphony of Elements Foundation is FREE as a landmark tribute to Birmingham’s industrial heritage at Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark — “one of the most historically significant industrial sites in the United States”.

Chairman + Director, Symphony of Elements Foundation

Dr. Raymond Thompson, PhD, PE

Dr. Raymond Thompson has spent more than six decades at the intersection of metallurgy, education, and community. Symphony of Elements is the culmination of all three.

A celebrated Engineering Professor at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Dr. Thompson shaped generations of engineers through his courses in metallurgy, ceramics, and materials science. His influence extended far beyond the classroom: he served on the UAB Long-Term Planning Committee, the School of Engineering Advisory Council, and as president of the UAB National Alumni Society, earning the UAB Volunteer of the Year Award in recognition of his lifelong commitment to education.

After more than 60 years as a Birmingham resident, researcher, and teacher, Dr. Thompson created Symphony of Elements to share what he has always known: that metals are not just functional — they are beautiful, complex, and endlessly fascinating.

This exhibit is his gift to the city that shaped him.

Event poster for 'Forged in Steel: A Festival of Elements' celebrating the art and science of metal, featuring live music, metal arts, speakers, vendors, and food trucks, taking place on Saturday, May 23 from 10 AM to 4 PM at Sloss Furnace.
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May is Preservation Month!

Featured this year are three FREE events, with a tour of Rickwood Field, a talk on Birmingham Mineral Railroad, and a Community Preservation Spotlight in Titusville. Mark your calendars for these upcoming events! For more information, please contact Birmingham’s Historic Preservation Manager: Hannah.Garmon@birminghamal.gov

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A Passion for Birmingham’s History

For over 50 years, Marjorie White has been sharing her research and discoveries about her adopted city of Birmingham. Her story as told in Birmingham Lifestyle Magazine is one of dedication, curiosity, exploration, and documentation. She knows this city well, and shares her enthusiasm in her latest publication, Birmingham by the Book.

Currently available locally (and mailed) from Birmingham Historical Society offices on Highland Avenue, at Thank You Books in Crestwood, and Shoppe in Forest Park, and at Amazon.com. Use the QR code to buy via PayPal or click HERE

Promotional image for 'Birmingham by the Book' featuring a QR code and text stating 'AVAILABLE NOW'.

If you want to share Birmingham with out-of-towners, this is a comprehensive, well-illustrated, but easy to read overview. And locals may just find out something new about Birmingham! Check it out! And read more about Marjorie’s story below…

Birmingham by the Book: A Guide to the Magic City

Marjorie White: Birmingham Lifestyle

Birmingham Historical Society, Birmingham Landmarks, Birmingham pioneers, BOOK, Book Sale, City of Birmingham, Membership, Publications

Need ideas for Family Friendly Outings?

Birmingham by the Book: A Guide to the Magic City is FREE to all new members! The heavily illustrated 8 x 10 guide is divided into chapters with photos, maps, and descriptions including:

  • MUST SEES
  • Sites to Explore
  • Before Birmingham
  • The City Center
  • Coal, Iron and Steel Communities
  • West End
  • East End
  • South Highlands
  • Red Mountain
  • Over the Mountain
  • Shades Mountain
Suspended bridge connecting wooden platforms in a wooded area with bare trees and a cloudy sky.
Stone ruins surrounded by lush green trees, with sunlight filtering through the leaves.

A typical page is pictured below. Quickly access places to go and things to do with a particular emphasis on the history of the sites. Locals may discover a new appreciation for their city that they only thought they knew well. Tourists will find an easy-to-follow overview divided into regions with notable sites in each region. Use this guide so that you don’t miss important architectural or historical features. And JOIN US, as we continue to document Birmingham’s history and educate the public with annual publications per the words of Marjorie White, BHS Director, below.

A two-page spread featuring various cultural and recreational activities in a city, including sections on arts, sports, family-friendly outings, food, and farmers' markets. Images include theaters, museums, and events, with a layout that highlights local attractions and dining options.

Interview by Birmingham Business Journal with
Marjorie White
Chairman of the Board and Director, Birmingham Historical Society
Category: Volunteer of the Year, Birmingham Business Journal 2026

Why is the nonprofit mission so critical and needed in the Birmingham community?

Nonprofits tread where others will not. Case in point: Fifty years ago, when I was first elected as an officer of the Birmingham Historical Society that I continue to serve as chairman of the board and director, the general understanding was that Birmingham had no history. (History happened before or during antebellum times and Birmingham was not even here then), and that the city had no built heritage to preserve. Over the intervening years, the Society has researched and published more than 70 books, drafted National Register of Historic Places and National Landmark nominations, conducted educational programs for adults and school groups and worked to create awareness and stewardship of the significant heritage of our post-bellum industrial city, greatly spearheading its conservation and preservation. This year, we look forward to releasing and sharing our definitive guide to Birmingham that once and for all dispels the notion that there is nothing to see or do in the Magic City.

Birmingham Historical Society is a privately funded membership organization. The Society benefits from the philanthropy of others: their donations of money, time and skills. As is true for similar groups across the United States, the Society has no full-time staff and operates with an exceptionally strong volunteer base. Many individuals have made decades long contributions. 

We look forward to continuing their service, recruiting other volunteers, and to building our endowment to support future staffed positions, fulfilling our mission to research, publish. and educate our community about its history and heritage.