Historic Mobile Preservation Society: Guardians of Mobile's Past

The Historic Mobile Preservation Society (HMPS) stands as the oldest grassroots preservation organization in Alabama, a testament to the dedication of citizens committed to safeguarding Mobile's unique heritage. Founded in 1935, the society plays a crucial role in advocating for historic preservation and promoting the city's rich history through various initiatives. Located at 300 Oakleigh Place, within the charming Oakleigh Garden Historic District, the HMPS operates from the Minnie Mitchell Archives Building. This building, constructed in 1980, serves as a repository for a vast collection of Mobile's historical treasures, including maps, documents, family papers, photographs, rare books, and artifacts. The archives are a valuable resource for researchers, historians, and anyone interested in delving into the city's past. The HMPS actively engages in research and study, concentrating its efforts within the Minnie Mitchell Archives. The society also hosts events and tours, such as the annual tours of Sacred Spaces, Living Spaces, and Resting Places, and Legends and Libations, to celebrate and share Mobile's history with the community. Mobile, with its complex history as a French, British, and Spanish colony before becoming part of the United States, boasts a unique blend of cultural influences evident in its architecture and traditions. The HMPS works diligently to protect this heritage for future generations. The Oakleigh Garden Historic District, where the HMPS is located, is a prime example of this preserved history, featuring homes from the 1820s to more recent constructions, showcasing a variety of 19th-century architectural styles.