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Dexter Parsonage Museum: A Civil Rights Landmark

Walk in the footsteps of Martin Luther King Jr. at this preserved landmark of the Civil Rights Movement in Montgomery, Alabama.

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Step back in time at the Dexter Parsonage Museum in Montgomery, Alabama, the former home of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his family from 1954 to 1960. This carefully preserved house offers a glimpse into their daily lives during the heart of the Civil Rights Movement.

A brief summary to Dexter Parsonage Museum

Local tips

  • Check the museum's website for updated hours and tour schedules, as they may vary.
  • Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours for a thorough tour and exploration of the museum.
  • Consider combining your visit with a trip to the nearby Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church for a more complete historical experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Dexter Parsonage Museum is located within walking distance of several other historical sites in downtown Montgomery. From the Alabama State Capitol, head east on Dexter Avenue toward Bainbridge Street. Turn right onto S Jackson Street. Walk approximately four blocks south. The Dexter Parsonage Museum will be on your left. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, from the Civil Rights Memorial, walk north on N Hull Street, turn right onto Washington Avenue, then turn left onto S Jackson Street. The Museum will be on your right after a few blocks.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services (Uber/Lyft) are readily available throughout downtown Montgomery. A ride from the Montgomery Regional Airport (MGM) to the Dexter Parsonage Museum will cost approximately $20-$30 and take around 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic. A short ride from other downtown locations, such as the Rosa Parks Museum or the Civil Rights Memorial, should cost between $8-$15.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to 309 S Jackson St, Montgomery, AL 36104. From I-85, take the Union Street exit and follow signs for downtown Montgomery. Turn onto High Street, then left onto S Jackson Street. From I-65, take the Clay Street exit, which becomes Herron Street, then Bibb Street, and finally Madison Avenue. Turn right onto S Jackson Street. Limited street parking is available near the museum. Several parking lots are located within a few blocks, with hourly rates typically ranging from $1 to $2 per hour.

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Discover more about Dexter Parsonage Museum

The Dexter Parsonage Museum, located in Montgomery, Alabama, is a significant historical landmark. It served as the home of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., his wife Coretta Scott King, and their children during his time as pastor at the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church from 1954 to 1960. This was a pivotal period in the burgeoning Civil Rights Movement. The two-story clapboard house, built in 1912, was purchased by the church in 1919 to serve as a residence for its pastors. The house has been meticulously restored to reflect its appearance during the King's residency, allowing visitors to experience the atmosphere of the era. Visitors can explore the various rooms, including the living room, dining room, bedrooms, and Dr. King's study, furnished with period pieces, many of which were actually used by the King family. These personal touches offer an intimate glimpse into their daily lives. The adjacent Interpretive Center features exhibits that chronicle the events of the Montgomery Bus Boycott, the role of the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church in the movement, and the lives of the twelve pastors who resided in the parsonage from 1920 to 1992. The exhibits include photographs, documents, and artifacts that bring the stories of the past to life. The King-Johns Garden for Reflection, located on the grounds, provides a serene space for contemplation. One of the most poignant aspects of the museum is the visible evidence of the violence and hatred the King family endured. In January 1956, during the Montgomery Bus Boycott, the parsonage was bombed. The scars of the past are still visible, serving as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by the King family.

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