Enslavement & Civil War Museum: A Journey Through History
Explore the compelling history of African Americans from ancient Africa through enslavement and the Civil War at this Selma museum.
The Enslavement & Civil War Museum in Selma, Alabama, also known as the Ancient Africa Enslavement and Civil War Museum (AAECWM), offers a powerful and educational experience focused on African American history, from antiquity through enslavement and the Civil War. Interactive displays depict the horrors of the Middle Passage, slave cabins, holding cells, and an auction block to give a visceral understanding of the trauma endured by enslaved Africans.
A brief summary to Enslavement & Civil War Museum
- 1408 Water Ave, Selma, Alabama, 36703, US
Local tips
- Check ahead for accurate opening hours, as inconsistencies have been reported.
- Consider scheduling a guided tour for a more in-depth and informative experience.
- Allow ample time to fully absorb the exhibits and engage with the museum's powerful message.
Getting There
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Walking
The Enslavement & Civil War Museum is located at 1408 Water Ave, near Selma's historic riverfront. If you are near the Edmund Pettus Bridge or the National Voting Rights Museum, head east on Water Avenue. The museum is a short walk from these landmarks, approximately 5-10 minutes. Look for the museum on the north side of Water Avenue.
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Driving
If driving from downtown Selma, navigate to Water Avenue. The museum is located at 1408 Water Ave. Parking is generally available on the street near the museum. Metered parking is typically around $1 per hour, with time limits varying by location.
Discover more about Enslavement & Civil War Museum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St. James Hotel Selma, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
0.2 km
Experience Southern charm at St. James Hotel Selma, where history meets modern comfort along the beautiful Alabama River.
Bridgetender's House
0.2 km
Step back in time at the Bridgetender's House in Selma, AL – a historic cottage with stunning river views and a rich past.
Sleeping Prophet Edgar Cayce Memorial
0.4 km
Explore the Edgar Cayce Memorial in Selma, Alabama, a historic landmark celebrating the legacy of America's most famous clairvoyant and his insights on spirituality and healing.
Organpi Farms Farmhouse
0.4 km
Explore the bounty of Selma at Organpi Farms Farmhouse, where fresh produce meets local flavor and community spirit.
Queen City Kale
0.4 km
Experience the flavors of Selma at Queen City Kale, where fresh ingredients and creative dishes come together in a vibrant setting.
905 Gallery
0.5 km
Discover curated Southern art at Gallery 905 in Selma, Alabama, where community and creativity thrive.
The Coffee Shoppe
0.6 km
Discover the heart of Selma at The Coffee Shoppe, where delightful brews and local charm create the perfect café experience.
Temple Mishkan Israel
0.8 km
Discover Temple Mishkan Israel in Selma, AL: a historic synagogue, a monument to Jewish heritage, and a landmark of Civil Rights history.
Mabry-Jones House
1.2 km
Discover Selma's history at the Mabry-Jones House, a beautiful example of Greek Revival architecture and home to notable figures.
John Tyler Morgan House
1.3 km
Visit the historic John Tyler Morgan House in Selma, Alabama, home to a Confederate General and long-serving U.S. Senator.
Lannie's Bar-B-Q Spot
1.3 km
Discover authentic Southern barbecue at Lannie's Bar-B-Q Spot in Selma, Alabama, a must-visit for food lovers seeking delicious flavors.
Riverview Historic District
1.5 km
Experience the rich history and stunning architecture of Riverview Historic District in Selma, Alabama, a testament to the nation's past.
Icehouse Historic District
1.5 km
Discover the rich history and architectural beauty of the Icehouse Historic District in Selma, Alabama—a must-visit for history enthusiasts and curious travelers.
Edmundite Missions
1.5 km
Discover the heart of community service at Edmundite Missions in Selma, Alabama, where faith meets action for social justice.
Bloch Park
2.1 km
Discover Selma's historic Bloch Park: a green oasis offering recreation, sports, and community events for all ages.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bridge Crossing Jubilee
0.0 km
Commemorating the Selma to Montgomery marches and the Voting Rights Act, honoring civil rights history and the fight for equality.
Historic Riverfront Park
0.2 km
Explore Selma's Historic Riverfront Park: A scenic waterfront park with Civil Rights history, river views, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Old Depot Museum
0.2 km
Explore Selma's vibrant history at the Old Depot Museum, from Native American artifacts to the Civil Rights Movement.
Selma Interpretive Center of the Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail
0.3 km
Discover the starting point of the historic Selma to Montgomery march, a pivotal landmark in the Civil Rights Movement.
Edmund Pettus Bridge
0.4 km
Walk in the footsteps of civil rights heroes on this iconic bridge, a powerful symbol of the fight for voting rights and equality in Selma, Alabama.
Brown Chapel AME Church
0.5 km
Visit the historic Brown Chapel AME Church in Selma, Alabama, a pivotal landmark in the Civil Rights Movement and the fight for voting rights.
Civil Rights Memorial Park
0.5 km
Reflect on the courageous fight for equality at Selma's Civil Rights Memorial Park, honoring pivotal events and figures of the movement.
National Voting Rights Museum and Institute
0.6 km
Explore the pivotal history of the Voting Rights Movement in Selma, AL, honoring the brave activists who fought for equality. A must-see Civil Rights landmark.
Old Town Historic District
0.7 km
Explore Selma's Old Town Historic District: A journey through time, architecture, and the heart of the Civil Rights Movement.
Vaughan Smitherman Museum
1.0 km
Explore Selma's vibrant past within the walls of this historic Greek Revival landmark, from Civil War relics to hospital artifacts.
Sturdivant Hall Museum
1.4 km
Experience the grandeur of the Old South at Sturdivant Hall, a beautifully preserved Greek Revival mansion in historic Selma, Alabama.
Tabernacle Baptist Church
1.5 km
Visit Tabernacle Baptist Church in Selma, a historic landmark and pivotal site in the Civil Rights Movement, showcasing courage and resilience.
New Live Oak Cemetery
2.8 km
Discover Selma's past in a serene setting, where history and nature intertwine among the monuments and ancient trees of New Live Oak Cemetery.
Lions Fair Park
5.4 km
A community hub in Selma, Alabama, hosting the annual Central Alabama Fair and various local events.
Old Cahawba Archaeological Park
12.9 km
Explore Alabama's first capital, a ghost town where history and nature intertwine. Discover ruins, trails, and stories of the past.
Essential places to dine
Sterling's
0.2 km
Discover the heart of American cuisine at Sterling's in Selma - where Southern hospitality meets delicious home-cooked meals.
Munch Box
0.3 km
Discover Munch Box: A cozy breakfast spot in Selma offering delicious meals that capture the essence of Southern hospitality.
Macks Amillion Daiquiri shop
0.3 km
Discover refreshing frozen daiquiris at Macks Amillion Daiquiri Shop in Selma, Alabama - where flavor meets fun in a vibrant setting.
Xpression
0.3 km
Discover Xpression in Selma: A culinary gem offering delicious Southern cuisine and warm hospitality in a vibrant setting.
Gab n grab
0.3 km
Experience the heart of American cuisine at Gab n Grab in Selma, Alabama – where comfort food meets Southern hospitality.
Reflections Coffee Shoppe
0.4 km
Experience warmth and flavor at Reflections Coffee Shoppe in Selma – your go-to spot for delicious coffee and local charm.
The Downtowner Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience family-friendly dining at The Downtowner Restaurant in Selma – where delicious comfort food meets warm hospitality.
Bistro Manila (and Boba Manila)
0.4 km
Experience authentic Filipino cuisine and delicious bubble tea at Bistro Manila in Selma, Alabama – where every meal tells a story.
Hickory Pit
0.4 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Hickory Pit in Selma – where smoky flavors meet warm hospitality.
5 & Dime
0.5 km
Experience authentic American cuisine at 5 & Dime in Selma, Alabama - where every meal tells a story.
MK87
0.5 km
Discover MK87 in Selma: A delightful sandwich shop offering locally-sourced flavors in a welcoming atmosphere.
Dallas Bar-B-Que
0.9 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Dallas Bar-B-Que in Selma - where smoky flavors meet hearty hospitality.
Hibachi Xpress
1.3 km
Experience authentic hibachi cuisine at Hibachi Xpress in Selma – fresh ingredients and skilled chefs create memorable meals.
Church's Texas Chicken
1.3 km
Discover the delicious taste of Southern comfort food at Church's Texas Chicken in Selma - where every meal is a celebration!
Pizza Hut Express
1.8 km
Discover delicious pizzas at Pizza Hut Express in Selma, Alabama - a perfect spot for quick bites while exploring rich Southern history.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Spiller Furniture Co
0.1 km
Explore Spiller Furniture Co in Selma, Alabama - where quality craftsmanship meets stylish design in a welcoming atmosphere.
Lex Couture Boutique
0.2 km
Discover elegance and style at Lex Couture Boutique in Selma, Alabama, your destination for bridal gowns, tuxedos, and formal wear.
Snack Store
0.3 km
Explore Selma's Snack Store for quick bites, refreshments, and local products in a convenient, friendly setting.
On Time Fashions
0.3 km
Discover the latest trends in men's fashion at On Time Fashions, Selma's go-to destination for stylish clothing and accessories.
Odds and Ends Gift Shop
0.3 km
Explore Selma’s Odds and Ends Gift Shop for unique local gifts, handcrafted treasures, and a taste of Southern charm.
This & That
0.3 km
Discover unique home goods and local treasures at This & That, a charming store in Selma, Alabama, where Southern hospitality meets quality craftsmanship.
Broad Street Books
0.4 km
Explore Broad Street Books, Selma's charming bookstore offering a diverse selection of literature in a cozy atmosphere.
Queen City Market
0.5 km
Explore unique clothing and home goods at Queen City Market, Selma's charm-filled boutique offering local fashion and gifts.
allez-oup
0.5 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish finds at Allez-Oup, Selma's charming gift shop and boutique featuring baby clothing and women's fashion.
Cotton House
0.5 km
Discover Cotton House in Selma, Alabama - a boutique clothing store offering unique fashion pieces and a warm shopping experience.
Express Shop
0.5 km
Discover the ultimate convenience at Express Shop in Selma, Alabama—your one-stop destination for snacks, drinks, and fuel.
Hill's Formal Wear
0.8 km
Discover the finest in formal attire at Hill's Formal Wear in Selma, Alabama, where style meets quality for every special occasion.
Selma Curb Market
0.8 km
Explore local flavors and community spirit at Selma Curb Market, your go-to grocery store in Selma, Alabama, offering fresh produce and unique artisanal goods.
Johnny's Package Store
0.8 km
Explore Johnny's Package Store in Selma, AL - your go-to spot for local liquor, convenience services, and a taste of Southern hospitality.
The Salvation Army Family Store
0.9 km
Explore unique second-hand treasures at The Salvation Army Family Store in Selma, Alabama, while supporting community initiatives and sustainability.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Dripz Lounge
0.0 km
Discover the charm of Dripz Lounge in Selma, Alabama – your go-to bar for a taste of local nightlife and a cozy atmosphere.
Sparkle's Saloon
0.1 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Sparkle's Saloon, a charming bar in Selma, Alabama, offering refreshing drinks and a taste of local culture.
Dallas County
1.3 km
Experience the vibrancy of Dallas County's gay bar scene in Selma, Alabama, a celebration of diversity, culture, and community.
Southern Comfort Lounge
1.8 km
Experience Southern charm at the Southern Comfort Lounge in Selma, Alabama, where live music and delicious cocktails create unforgettable moments.
XPLOSION
3.5 km
Experience the thrill of sports at XPLOSION, Selma's go-to sports bar with delicious bites and a vibrant atmosphere.
Dallas County Moose Lodge 1737
4.3 km
Discover the warmth and camaraderie of the Dallas County Moose Lodge 1737 in Selma, a perfect spot for drinks and local culture.
Michael's Pub
6.7 km
Discover the lively nightlife and warm atmosphere of Michael's Pub in Selma, Alabama, where great drinks and good company await you.
King Bar
16.6 km
Discover the wonders of King Bar, a vibrant reef destination in Alabama offering stunning marine life and a relaxing atmosphere for every tourist.
Mary Taylor Bar
19.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious seafood at Mary Taylor Bar, a hidden gem in Alabama's coastal beauty.
Mitchell Bar
19.4 km
Explore the vibrant underwater world of Mitchell Bar, a stunning reef in Alabama, where adventure and marine beauty await every visitor.
Upper Sister Bar
23.3 km
Explore the vibrant marine life and stunning coral formations at Upper Sister Bar, a must-visit reef destination in Alabama for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Rifleman Bar
23.5 km
Experience the heart of Alabama at Rifleman Bar - a cozy retreat for drinks, stories, and local culture.
Middle Sister Bar
27.5 km
Explore the serene beauty of Middle Sister Bar in Alabama, a stunning reef destination perfect for adventure and relaxation.
Providence Bar
27.8 km
Explore the stunning reef landscapes of Providence Bar in Alabama, a serene escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Upper Portland Bar
30.0 km
Discover the serene beauty of Upper Portland Bar in Alabama, a perfect retreat for relaxation and local flavor amidst stunning landscapes.
