Mobile's Black history and culture reflect stories of resilience and innovation that have shaped the city for generations. Through various historic landmarks, experiences and community traditions, the city’s Black heritage is deeply woven into its past, present and future. Join us in exploring the places and legacies that define Mobile's rich Black history with these opportunities.
Clotilda: The Exhibition at Africatown Heritage House
Did you know that the last slave ship to enter the US docked in Mobile? After the slave trade was banned in the United States, 110 enslaved men, women and children were transported from various tribes in West Africa to Mobile’s shores aboard the Clotilda. At Africatown Heritage House, the stories of the survivors, their journey to liberation and the legacy of the Africatown community paint the walls.
Dora Franklin Finley African American Heritage Trail
Mobile is home to some of history’s most monumental people and moments. Explore must-experience landmarks that have left stamps on the Port City, such as Leroy “Satchel” Paige’s home site, Basilica of the Immaculate Conception and the Africatown neighborhood while on a tour with the Dora Franklin Finley African American Heritage Trail.
Creole Fire Station #1
Founded in 1819 by the local Creole community, Creole Fire Station #1 was created by free men of color and served as Alabama’s first volunteer fire department. Today, the station's legacy lives on, with many original Creole family names still represented among today’s firefighters.
Historic Avenue Cultural Center
Since its opening in fall 2023, the Historic Avenue Cultural Center has played a vital role in honoring the stories of Mobile’s Black community. Originally established as the Davis Avenue branch of the Mobile Public Library in 1931, the building served as an educational hub for Mobile's Black community during the segregation era. The center’s exhibit, “Remembering the Avenue,” details the stories and history of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue before urban renewal took place in the 1970s. Listen to residents recall fond memories of growing up in such a close-knit and thriving area while learning about Mobile’s “Black Main Street.”
Mobile Area Mardi Gras Association
Mardi Gras, America’s most vibrant celebration, originated in Mobile. The Mobile Area Mardi Gras Association (MAMGA) is one of the societies that add to the carnival magic. Founded in 1938, this esteemed organization has played a pivotal role in shaping and preserving the cultural richness of Mobile's Mardi Gras traditions. Today, MAMGA has grown to become one of the largest predominantly Black Mardi Gras associations. Beyond the glittering floats and dazzling costumes, the association actively engages in charitable initiatives that contribute to the community's well-being.
Excelsior Band
One of the best stories in Mobile is the story of the beloved Excelsior Band. Founded on November 23, 1883, the African American brass band is believed to be the oldest marching jazz band in the United States. The band marched in their first Mardi Gras parade in 1884 and still leads Mobile’s parades every single year. It only takes listening to that iconic four-note blast from the trumpet player to know that the Excelsior Band is in the house!
