Background

Murphy-Collins House: A Glimpse into Tuscaloosa's African American Heritage

4.3 (13)

Explore the history and culture of Tuscaloosa's African American community at the beautifully preserved Murphy-Collins House.

The Murphy-Collins House, home to the Murphy African American Museum, offers a glimpse into the lives of affluent African Americans in Tuscaloosa during the early 20th century. Built in the 1920s by Will J. Murphy, a pioneering Black mortician, the house showcases the history and culture of the local African American community.

A brief summary to Murphy-Collins House

  • Tuesday 10 am-3 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-3 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-3 pm
  • Friday 10 am-3 pm
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Murphy-Collins House.

  • Check the museum's website or call ahead to confirm tour times and availability, as tours are by appointment only.
  • Plan your visit on a Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday, as those are the days the museum is open.
  • Take advantage of the guided tours for a more in-depth understanding of the exhibits.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Unlock the Best of Murphy-Collins House

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Getting There

  • Walking

    From downtown Tuscaloosa, head south on Greensboro Avenue. Continue straight for about 0.7 miles until you reach the intersection with Paul W. Bryant Drive. Turn left onto Paul W. Bryant Drive and walk approximately 0.5 miles. The Murphy-Collins House will be on your right at 2601 Paul W Bryant Dr. There are no costs associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Tuscaloosa, walk to the nearest bus stop on University Boulevard. Take the Tuscaloosa Metro bus route 1, heading towards the Paul W. Bryant Drive stop. Once you get off at the Paul W. Bryant Drive stop, walk about 0.2 miles north along Paul W. Bryant Drive, and you'll find the Murphy-Collins House at 2601 Paul W Bryant Dr on your left. A single ride on Tuscaloosa Metro costs $1.25.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    From downtown Tuscaloosa, a taxi or ride-share to the Murphy-Collins House will typically cost between $8 and $15, depending on the company and demand. The trip is approximately 2.5 miles and should take about 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Check local ride-sharing apps for current pricing.

Discover more about Murphy-Collins House

The Murphy-Collins House stands as a testament to the vibrant African American community that thrived in Tuscaloosa during the early 20th century. Built around 1923 by Will J. Murphy, Tuscaloosa's first licensed Black mortician, the house is a two-story Craftsman bungalow constructed with salvaged materials from the old state capitol building. Murphy and his wife, Laura, a school principal, were prominent figures in the community.The house is located at what was once the dividing line between Black and white neighborhoods. It was a part of the “Lace Curtain District,” an area known for its affluent Black residents. Today, the Murphy-Collins House operates as a museum, focusing on the history and lifestyle of African Americans in the Tuscaloosa area. Visitors can explore exhibits about the Murphy family and the broader African American community, gaining insights into their accomplishments and contributions. The museum also hosts special programs for school children, teaching them about the Civil Rights Movement, Black heritage, and culture.A visit to the Murphy-Collins House offers a unique opportunity to learn about Tuscaloosa's Black history and appreciate the resilience and achievements of its African American citizens.
Mobile App

Your all‑in‑one travel companion app

Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.



More about Tuscaloosa

File:2011 houndstooth ribbon on the field at Bryant–Denny Stadium.jpg -  Wikimedia Commons

Discover Tuscaloosa, Alabama: A city where history meets modern charm, from the vibrant University of Alabama to scenic outdoor adventures along the Black Warrior River.

Tell me more about Tuscaloosa

Select Currency