ALABAMA HERITAGE
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Published by The University of Alabama,
The University of Alabama at Birmingham,
and the Alabama Department of Archives and History

Alabama Heritage's History

In 1985, then-chair of the University of Alabama's department of history, Bill Barnard, had an idea--what if the state of Alabama have its first historical magazine? He pitched the idea to his department, garnering support. The magazine was conceived with a broad conception of "heritage," incorporating more than traditional history. Barnard would then recruit Suzanne Wolfe as editor. In the summer of 1986, Alabama Heritage magazine first debuted.

In the more than 35 years since its founding, Alabama Heritage has become the state's premier historical publication. Featuring dozens of topics from anthropology to literature and so much more, the magazine has become an esteemed quarterly that serves not only the state, but also the southeastern region. The magazine provides rich educational resources to its readers and has been cited in various works as a reliable reference.

Faced with an overwhelming strain on the state's educational budgets, the community came to the magazine's aid in the mid-1990s, creating "Friends of Alabama Heritage" which continues to be the lifeblood of the publication. The magazine is also currently funded by the University of Alabama, the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and the Alabama Department of Archives and History. 

Through the support of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama, Alabama Heritage can be found in every school throughout the state. Alabama Heritage is especially thankful for the continuous support and understanding of educating the state's history.

In its history, there have been four editors/directors who have overseen the publication's success, along with a myriad of other important players and vendors. Currently, there are four full-time employees at the magazine along with several editorial assistants. The staff continues to produce top-notch content while also fact-checking everything with a fine-tooth comb. The team is proud of its work and the mission they continue to serve. 

A Timeline of Events

  • In 1985, Bill Barnard, then-chair of the University of Alabama's history department, first broached the idea of a state history magazine and recruited Suzanne Wolfe to run with it. The first issue rolled out in the summer of 1986.
  • In the mid-1990s, proration caused severe strains on the state's education budgets. Out of money and in danger of an issue not being delivered, the community came to the magazine's rescue.
  • Currently the magazine is funded by the University of Alabama, the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and the Alabama Department of Archives and History, as well as a "Friends of Alabama Heritage," which has been a key pillar of the magazine's long-term survival.
  • The magazine was formerly housed at the Kilgore House, which was part of the Bryce Hospital in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, and considered to be haunted. The editors of the magazine invited paranormal experts to record activity. The magazine has been housed in several locations throughout Tuscaloosa and Northport, and is currently housed on the University of Alabama campus.
  • Alabama Heritage announced the appointment of Rebecca Todd Minder as its new Director as of October 2021.
Alabama Heritage
Box 870342
Tuscaloosa, AL 35487
Local (205) 348-7467
Toll-Free (877) 925-2323
Alabama.Heritage@ua.edu
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