Thursday, March 19, 2015

The Battle of Selma Historic Trail

Several Battle of Selma historic markers have been installed around town
 in recent weeks, and more will be erected before April's 150th anniversary
 of one of the last battles of the War Between the States. 

This marker is located at the St. James Hotel and tells the story
 of its occupation by Union Gen. James H. Wilson. The hotel, known back then
 as The Gee House Hotel, was managed by Benjamin Sterling Turner,
 a slave who was freed after the battle and went on to become
 the first African American U.S. congressman from Alabama. 
Turner is buried in Old Live Oak Cemetery.
 The cemetery will open Saturday evening during Spring Pilgrimage
 for "ghost tours" as its residents tell their stories.

 Also, visitors can follow the battle trail via these signs. 

Linking to Signs, Signs

6 comments:

Tanya Breese said...

what a history...pretty marker too, different than the usual historical markers, like the white paint on it!

Tom said...

I like history and markers are a great way to point out the rich history of an area. Good to see. Tom The Backroads Traveller

William Kendall said...

Ben Turner's story seems as engaging as the field of battle. I like this marker.

Lesley said...

There's nothing like a milestone anniversary to get thing moving. Nice sign.

Halcyon said...

Selma has a lot of history. You could probably fill the town with markers!

Jim said...

Terrific historic sign.