The University of Alabama Press has produced the first comprehensive history book of the city UA calls home to commemorate Tuscaloosa’s bicentennial.
“Tuscaloosa: 200 Years in the Making” by G. Ward Hubbs illustrates Tuscaloosa’s versatile history and will be of interest to members of the community who want to better understand their locale, as well as scholars wanting to further their research.
“Reflecting individual effort, collective vision and all the compromises in between, ‘Tuscaloosa: 200 Years in the Making’ details an impressive array of geographical, historical and political convergences that created what the city is today,” said Dr. Trudier Harris, University Distinguished Research Professor at UA.
The Tuscaloosa Bicentennial Commission is inviting the community to attend a discussion of the book Sept. 22 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Tuscaloosa Federal Building and Courthouse. The Community Book Experience will feature Hubbs in conversation with Alabama Public Radio’s Don Noble about Tuscaloosa’s history and the landmark events that define the community. The event will also showcase 14 murals by artist Caleb O’Connor depicting Tuscaloosa’s history.
“Hubbs is meticulous in researching and synthesizing materials about the history of Tuscaloosa,” said Harris. “His efforts have resulted in a rich and concise volume that is an informative and emotionally engaging monument to a city that, when set back, repeatedly reimagined its future and ultimately succeeded in turning vision into reality.”
Copies of the book are available for purchase at the University Supply Store, Ernest and Hadley Booksellers, and Barnes and Noble in Midtown Village. An e-book version can be purchased online through the UA Press. The book can also be checked out at all branch locations of the Tuscaloosa Public Library.
Follow the Tuscaloosa 200 Events page at www.tuscaloosa200.com as well as the Tuscaloosa News for more details about the Community Book Experience and events that will continue throughout Tuscaloosa’s bicentennial year.