Huntsville Indigenous History Events | May Preservation Month

Huntsville will mark Historic Preservation Month throughout May with events and programs centered on the region's Indigenous history, including sites like Monte Sano Mountain, Ditto Landing, Big Spring Park and the lands now known as Redstone Arsenal.

The city's campaign aligns with the National Trust for Historic Preservation's theme, "Telling the Full Story of America." Mayor Tommy Battle said the effort reflects how "historic preservation isn't about freezing time. It's about understanding where we come from and honoring those who came before us."

City Preservation Planner Katie Stamps said the focus helps residents see Huntsville's early history through an accurate and inclusive lens by uplifting Indigenous voices and recognizing sacred landscapes.

PorchFest Five Points takes place Saturday, May 2, from 3 to 9 p.m., with musicians performing on porches along Pratt Avenue. Stamps leads free Discover Downtown Huntsville Walking Tours on Thursday, May 7, at 5:30 p.m. and Saturday, May 16, at 10 a.m., departing from the historic First National Bank at 216 West Side Square.

A panel discussion titled "Telling the Full Story of America: Celebrating Indigenous stories and places in Huntsville" runs Thursday, May 21, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. on the sixth floor of Huntsville City Hall. The event includes discussions on land stewardship, oral traditions and modern Indigenous identity, plus live performances by Indigenous artists.

Residents can share experiences using #SavingPlacesHSV. More information is available on the city's Historic Preservation Month webpage.