Historical Pilgrimage in Sylacauga unveils fascinating lineup of city’s pioneers

SYLACAUGA, Ala. – The Alabama Historical Association’s Fall Pilgrimage in Sylacauga is expected to be an enriching journey through time with a remarkable cast of pioneers. Set to take place this Friday and Saturday, Oct. 27-28, this historical event offers participants a unique opportunity to connect with the city’s rich past.

The Leadership Sylacauga kicked off the pilgrimage on Thursday morning, Oct. 26, at First Baptist Church, starting at 8:30 a.m. From there, attendees embarked on a cemetery tour at 9:30 a.m, guided by commission members.

Friday’s schedule allows for a flexible experience, with guests having the choice to explore the stained-glass window presentation at First Baptist Church or join the historical tour, which runs from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. The tour will feature short presentations at each station, and it’s expected to conclude by 4:15 p.m.

On Saturday, the pilgrimage continues from 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m, giving visitors the freedom to explore the city on their own. Additionally, a downtown tour starting at 1:00 p.m. is sure to be a popular option for attendees.

Sylacauga’s pioneers, each with their unique stories and contributions to the city’s history, will come to life during this memorable pilgrimage. From Mary E. Phillips Cannon to James Payton, these individuals have played a significant role in shaping the Sylacauga we know today.

The event promises to be a great tribute to the city’s history and its enduring legacy.

Friday, October 27

• 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. – Lunch and presentation at Pursell Farms (Pre-registration and additional fee required)
• 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. – Sylacauga Cemetery/First Baptist Church Historic Windows Guided Tour

Saturday, October 28

• 8:00 a.m – Coffee, Muffins, Book Sales, and Local History Displays at B.B. Comer Memorial Library
• 8:30 a.m – K-12 Teacher Workshop: “Alabama History in the Classroom”
• 10:00 a.m – Local History Program
• 11:30 a.m – Buffet lunch
• 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. – Tours On-Your-Own

The Alabama Historical Association’s Fall Pilgrimage is a testament to the dedication and commitment of its organizers to bring the city’s history to life. With a blend of presentations, tours, and workshops, this event will be a memorable and insightful journey into Sylacauga’s past and its vibrant heritage.

List of Sylacauga’s Pioneers:

1. Mary E. Phillips Cannon
2. Donald Cameron
3. George Herd
4. John Herd
5. David Herd
6. John Mahan
7. Mary Ann Oden Stubblefield
8. Joshua Oden
9. John L. (Piney) Oden
10. James Montgomery Lanning
11. Richard T. Hebson
12. James Napoleon Bonaparte Nix
13. John Judge Hightower
14. Ann Wilson
15. Mattie Wilson Douglass
16. Rev. Washington Wilkes
17. David Lindsey
18. Mamie Keller Hall
19. Dr. David C. Keller
20. Rev. John J. Bullington
21. Benjamin Downs French
22. Rev. Albert Crumpler
23. Baldwin Madison Fluker
24. Susanna Oden Fluker
25. James Payton

For more information, please visit the association’s website here.