Introduction
Talladega College is a small, private, historically black college located in Talladega, Alabama. Founded in 1867, it is the oldest private historically black college in Alabama and among the oldest in the nation. The college has a rich history and has contributed significantly to the educational and social development of African Americans in the country. In this blog post, we will explore some fun facts about Talladega College that you might not have known.
The Founding of Talladega College
Talladega College was founded by two former slaves, William Savery and Thomas Tarrant, in 1867. The college was initially called the Swayne School and was named after General Wager Swayne, who was a supporter of African American education. In 1869, the school was renamed Talladega College after the county in which it was located. The founders’ vision was to create an institution that would provide education to African Americans, who had been denied access to education due to slavery and segregation. Today, Talladega College remains committed to providing a quality education to African American students.
The First African American to Earn a Ph.D. from an Alabama Institution In 1925, Talladega College made history when it awarded the first Ph.D. to an African American in Alabama. The recipient was William Hooper Council, who earned his Ph.D. in history from the University of Pennsylvania. Council went on to become a professor at Talladega College and served as its president from 1948 to 1965. He was a prominent civil rights leader and was instrumental in desegregating the schools in Talladega County.
The Amistad Murals
One of the most notable features of Talladega College is the Amistad Murals, a series of six murals created by Hale Woodruff, an African American artist. The murals depict the 1839 Amistad slave rebellion, which took place aboard a Spanish slave ship. The rebellion was led by a group of enslaved Africans who overpowered their captors and took control of the ship. The ship was eventually captured off the coast of Long Island, and the Africans were brought to trial in Connecticut. The trial drew national attention, and ultimately, the Supreme Court ruled that the Africans were free and should be returned to their homeland. The Amistad Murals were commissioned by Talladega College in 1938 and were completed in 1942. They are considered one of the most important works of African American art in the country.
The White Hall Dormitory Fire
On March 10, 1969, a fire broke out in White Hall, a dormitory at Talladega College. The fire claimed the lives of four students and injured several others. The tragedy shook the entire Talladega community and led to increased scrutiny of the college’s safety standards. In the wake of the fire, the college implemented new safety measures, including installing fire alarms and sprinkler systems in all of its buildings.
The Talladega College Marching Tornadoes
The Talladega College Marching Tornadoes are one of the most renowned marching bands in the country. The band was formed in 2012 and has since gained national recognition for its innovative performances and high-energy shows. The Marching Tornadoes have performed at events across the country, including the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and the Presidential Inauguration Parade. The band’s signature move is the “Talladega Shuffle,” a dance move that has become a fan favorite.
The Talladega College Choir
The Talladega College Choir is another renowned music ensemble at the college. The choir has a long history, dating back to the college’s founding in 1867. Over the years,the choir has gained a reputation for excellence, and its performances have been praised for their beautiful harmonies and soulful sound. The choir has performed at numerous events and venues, including the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and the White House.
The Jesse Owens Museum
Talladega College is home to the Jesse Owens Museum, which honors the life and legacy of the legendary Olympic athlete. Jesse Owens attended Ohio State University but had close ties to Talladega College. He competed in track and field events at the college during his career and formed a close friendship with William Hooper Council, the college’s president at the time. The museum features a collection of Owens’ personal items, including medals, trophies, and uniforms, as well as exhibits on his life and career.
The Talladega College Archives
The Talladega College Archives is a treasure trove of historical documents and artifacts related to the college’s history. The archives contain a wealth of information on the college’s founding, as well as its role in the civil rights movement and its contributions to education and culture. The archives also house a collection of rare books, manuscripts, and photographs that provide insight into African American history and culture.
The Talladega College Debate Team
The Talladega College Debate Team has a long history of excellence and has won numerous awards and championships over the years. The team was established in 1949 and has since become one of the most successful debate teams in the country. The team competes in various regional and national competitions, and its members have gone on to successful careers in law, politics, and other fields.
The Talladega College Student Government Association
The Talladega College Student Government Association (SGA) is a student-run organization that represents the interests of the student body. The SGA is responsible for organizing events, advocating for student issues, and promoting student engagement on campus. The SGA is also involved in community outreach programs and works to promote social justice and equality.
Conclusion
Talladega College is a small college with a rich history and a vibrant community. From its founding by former slaves to its contributions to the civil rights movement, the college has played an important role in the education and social development of African Americans in the country. The college is home to many notable features, including the Amistad Murals, the Jesse Owens Museum, and the Talladega College Marching Tornadoes. Whether you’re a student, alumni, or just a curious visitor, there is much to discover and appreciate about Talladega College.
