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Old Courthouse Museum: A Literary Landmark

Discover the inspiration behind 'To Kill a Mockingbird' at Monroeville's Old Courthouse Museum, a National Historic Landmark and literary treasure.

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Step back in time at the Old Courthouse Museum in Monroeville, Alabama, the inspiration for Harper Lee's 'To Kill a Mockingbird'. Explore the meticulously restored 1930s courtroom and discover exhibits dedicated to Lee and Truman Capote, Monroeville's celebrated authors.

A brief summary to Old Courthouse Museum

  • Monday 10 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-4 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-2 am

Local tips

  • Visit the Bird's Nest Gift Shop inside the museum for unique souvenirs, including local art and 'To Kill a Mockingbird' memorabilia.
  • Attend a performance of 'To Kill a Mockingbird' in the courtroom during April and May for an immersive experience.
  • Explore other historic sites in Monroe County maintained by the Monroe County Heritage Museum for a broader understanding of the area's history.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Old Courthouse Museum is located on Courthouse Square in downtown Monroeville. If you are already in the downtown area, the museum is easily accessible on foot. From Monroeville City Hall, walk south on Alabama Avenue for two blocks. The museum will be on your left, in the center of the square.

  • Public Transport

    The Monroeville Transit System operates bus routes throughout the city. Check the local bus schedule for the nearest stop to the Courthouse Square. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the museum. Exact bus fares vary, but a single ride typically costs around $1.25. Please check the Monroeville Transit System website for the most up-to-date pricing.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to 31 N Alabama Ave, Monroeville, AL 36460. Free parking is available around the square, but it may be limited. There is a two-hour time limit. Additional parking can be found in the lot to the east of the building. There are handicap parking spaces available in both areas. Be aware of local traffic regulations and posted parking restrictions.

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Discover more about Old Courthouse Museum

The Old Courthouse Museum in Monroeville, Alabama, is more than just a historical landmark; it's a portal to the past, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the world that shaped 'To Kill a Mockingbird' and Truman Capote's literary voice. Built in 1903, the Monroe County Courthouse served as the center of civic life for over six decades. Designed by architect Andrew Bryan, the building's Eclectic architectural style reflects the era's design sensibilities. The courthouse gained national fame following the 1960 publication of 'To Kill a Mockingbird', Harper Lee's masterpiece that drew heavily on her Monroeville upbringing. The fictional town of Maycomb, Alabama, with its deeply ingrained social dynamics and poignant exploration of justice, was directly inspired by Monroeville and its surrounding community. In 1963, county offices moved to a new building, and the community recognized the historical and cultural significance of the old courthouse. A movement began to preserve the building, culminating in its transformation into a museum. The heart of the museum is undoubtedly the restored courtroom. Its design served as the model for the courtroom in the acclaimed film adaptation of 'To Kill a Mockingbird'. Although the movie wasn't filmed on location, the set designer visited Monroeville to meticulously measure, photograph, and sketch the courtroom, ensuring an authentic recreation on a Hollywood soundstage. Visitors can explore the courtroom, including the balcony where Harper Lee often sat as a child, watching her father practice law. The museum also houses two permanent exhibits: 'Truman Capote: A Childhood in Monroeville' and 'Harper Lee: In Her Own Words'. These exhibits feature artifacts, photographs, and more from both authors' lives. The Old Courthouse Museum was named a National Historic Landmark in January 2021.

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