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

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

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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

Local tips

  • 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.
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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.

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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.

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