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Pension Row Historical Marker

Discover Pension Row in Madison, AL: a historical landmark commemorating a vibrant African American community and its rich heritage.

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Pension Row, a historic street in Madison, Alabama, was once a thriving African American community. The historical marker commemorates its significance as a place where black residents, particularly those receiving pensions after World War I, built homes and fostered a lively community with churches and schools.

A brief summary to Pension Row Historical Marker

  • 211-299 Arnett St, Madison, Alabama, 35758, US

Local tips

  • Take a stroll down the quiet residential street to appreciate the historical significance of the area.
  • Visit the nearby St. Peter United Methodist Church and St. Elizabeth Cumberland Presbyterian Church, two historic churches that continue to serve the community.
  • Look for the historical marker at the corner of Pension Row and Arnett Street to learn more about the history of the area.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Pension Row Historical Marker is located at the intersection of Pension Row and Arnett Street in Madison, AL. From most points in the immediate vicinity of downtown Madison, the marker is easily accessible by foot. Simply head towards the intersection of Arnett Street and Pension Row. The marker is located on the corner.

  • Public Transport

    While Madison has limited public transportation, the Madison Assisted Ride System (MARS) provides curb-to-curb, non-emergency transportation for Madison residents aged 60+ or those with certified disabilities for $2.00 per one-way trip. Huntsville Transit (Orbit) also has fixed-route bus service for $1 per ride. Check the Huntsville Transit website for routes and schedules. From the Orbit bus routes, you may need to transfer to a taxi to get to Pension Row. Taxi/Uber fare from the bus stop to Pension Row is approximately $10-$15.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    If arriving from Huntsville International Airport (HSV), taxi or ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft are readily available. A taxi ride from the airport to Pension Row will cost approximately $14. From downtown Madison to Pension Row, a short taxi ride will likely cost between $8 and $12.

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Discover more about Pension Row Historical Marker

Pension Row stands as a testament to the rich history of Madison, Alabama, particularly its African American community. This quiet residential street, located off Arnett Street, was once a bustling hub, especially after World War I when black residents used their pensions to purchase property here, hence the name "Pension Row." For much of the 19th and 20th centuries, Pension Row was home to many of Madison's black citizens, including businessmen, teachers, preachers, farmers, and workers in the town's gins and warehouses. The narrow streets, originally designed for horse-drawn carts, and the established hedges contribute to the area's unique character. Pension Row has been around since Madison was incorporated in 1869. The street hosted a Presbyterian church and the fifth Masonic lodge in Madison County. Around 1940, the first dedicated school for black students in Madison was built on Pension Row. Although the building burned down a few years later, it represented a significant step forward in education for the community. While many of the older homes have disappeared over time, Pension Row remains home to a small population, including some who have lived there for generations. The two historic churches, St. Peter United Methodist Church (founded in 1887) and St. Elizabeth Cumberland Presbyterian Church (founded in 1910), continue to serve the community.

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