African American Heritage in Old Town Decatur, Alabama

African American Heritage in Old Town Decatur, Alabama. . Old Town played a vital part in the city's history. The first lot sold in 1821 before the city incorporated in 1826. During Reconstruction, the neighborhood emerged politically, economically and educationally. Many prominent African American citizens resided here; including Burrell Lemons, the first man of color elected as City Alderman in 1880, and renowned physician and surgeon, Dr. Willis E. Sterrs. The few remaining homes represent various architectural styles. Vine Street, located near the Old Train Depot, was the heart of Old Town's commercial district and contained a vibrant collection of shops, restaurants, churches, and professional service venues. Significant to the landmark Scottsboro Boys Trial, many of the black residents' names were submitted as eligible to serve on the 1933 jury. Home to the only accredited high school for blacks, Decatur Negro High School [later named Lakeside] once hosted Dr. George Washington Carver, revered scientist of Tuskegee Institute. Local congregations functioned as centers for active outreach ministries, civic, social, and political interests for its proud citizens., Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2012 and included on the State of Alabama Registry of Landmarks and Heritage.