Issue 16, Spring 1990

The image features the cover of a publication titled “Alabama Heritage,” published by the University of Alabama. The central focus is a captivating photograph of a white flower with long, slender petals, surrounded by lush green foliage. The cover design combines natural beauty with textual elements reminiscent of a historical publication. Specific Elements or Objects: Text Elements: At the top, the elegant title “Alabama Heritage” is rendered in purple script. Just below the title, there’s a small print indicating that the publication is “PUBLISHED QUARTERLY BY THE UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA.” Towards the bottom, the following details are provided in black text: “Spring 1990” “Number 16” “.00” Flower: The central white flower is the focal point. Its petals are white, radiating outward in a delicate manner, with pointed tips. In the center of the flower, there’s a yellow stigma surrounded by white stamens with yellow anthers at their tips. Background Foliage: The flower is set amidst a backdrop of green leaves. These leaves are dark and glossy, providing contrast to the bright white petals.

Issue 16, Spring 1990

On the cover: The rare Cahaba lily. [Photograph by L. J. Davenport]

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Features

Iron and Dirt

By Richard Dice and the Alabama Heritage staff

The year was 1950–the days of iron and dirt. “Iron” was what they drove in: the car, in this case stock cars with modified engines. “Dirt” was what they drove on: the track. It was also what they called what they were doing: the driving. Every stock car driver who had “iron” in those days “drove dirt.” In fact, this period, from the thirties to the early fifties, was the heyday of dirt in racing. This is the story of the men who drove dirt, the men for whom racing was not merely a pastime. Their names were Howell, Eddie Martin, George Fleming, and Jerry Massey. For them, driving dirt was a way out, thrilling and profitable. This is the story of races legal and illegal, of triumph and tragedy, of the days of iron and dirt.

The image is in black and white, evoking a vintage aesthetic. A man stands next to an old racing car. He is wearing light colored clothes and a white helmet. The racing car appears to be modified for racing purposes. Its engine is exposed, and it has large rear wheels. The car is numbered “88” on its side, which suggests it might be part of a race or competition. In the background, there are other vehicles, indicating that this scene is likely at a race track or similar event. The natural landscape beyond the track includes trees and open fields, all under a clear sky.
An unidentified weekend warrior beside his jalopy at Birmingham’s Iron Bowl racetrack. [Courtesy Rocco & Cheater’s Speed Shop, Birmingham]
The Racing Car: The focal point of the image is an old, modified racing car. Its design exudes raw power and speed. Stripped of unnecessary bodywork, the car reveals its mechanical essence. The absence of front panels allows us to glimpse the inner workings. The car’s dark-colored body bears the bold number “59” painted in white. This number likely signifies its racing identity. Adjacent to the number, there’s text—perhaps names or titles—but it remains partially obscured, leaving room for intrigue. The Enthusiast: Standing beside the car is a person who shares our fascination. The individual wears light-colored pants and a short-sleeved shirt, suggesting a warm day at the track. Their posture hints at admiration or perhaps a connection to the car. Are they the driver, a mechanic, or an ardent spectator? The Setting: The scene unfolds outdoors, surrounded by nature. Trees frame the background, and the open sky stretches above. Other people—likely fellow enthusiasts—observe from a distance. Perhaps they share stories, swap tips, or simply revel in the shared passion for racing. In this frozen moment, the car’s engine roars silently, and the air crackles with anticipation. We’re left to imagine the adrenaline, the smell of fuel, and the thrill of speed that once filled this space.
Jolt’n Jerry Massey in 1948, beside “59 Junior,” the car he drove for Rocco & Cheater’s Garage. [Courtesy Rocco & Cheater’s Speed Shop, Birmingham]
General Overview: The scene unfolds in a serene garden, where an abundance of white flowers takes center stage. The soft, natural light bathes the entire scene, casting a gentle glow on the petals and leaves. Specific Elements or Objects: Flowers: These delicate, star-shaped white blossoms dominate the composition. Each flower boasts multiple translucent petals radiating outward. The central part of each bloom exhibits a subtle yellowish-green hue. Stems and Leaves: Slender green stems support the flowers, standing tall amidst the foliage. Clusters of long, narrow leaves surround each stem at its base. Lighting: The natural sunlight filters through the petals, emphasizing their delicate texture. The interplay of light and shadow creates a captivating backdrop against the lush greenery. In summary, this image portrays a serene garden scene illuminated by soft sunlight filtering through delicate white blossoms with star-shaped petals. The slender green stems and lush foliage provide a contrasting backdrop, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.
Cahaba lilies can only be found during certain parts of the year. [Photo by L. J. Davenport]

The Cahaba Lily

By L.J. Davenport

In the summer of 1989, the US Fish and Wildlife Service asked L.J. Davenport to travel throughout Alabama and adjoining states studying the Cahaba or shoals lily (Hymenocalis coronaria), a species of spiderlily noted for its striking, three-inch broad white flowers. The lily, which is among Alabama’s rarest plants, grows in the rocky shoals of rivers and streams. Its informal name, the Cahaba lily, arises from its proliferation along the Cahaba River. In this article, Davenport recounts his travels in search of the Cahaba lily.

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The image portrays a serene and timeless landscape. It is captured in black and white, adding to its nostalgic charm. At the center of the frame stands a dome-shaped building, its architectural elegance commanding attention. The surroundings are lush and inviting, with well-maintained greenery stretching out in all directions. A straight pathway, flanked by short fences, leads directly to the entrance of the building. Specific Elements or Objects: The Building: The central structure is reminiscent of historical significance. It could be an institution, a place of gathering, or perhaps a monument. Its dome shape suggests a blend of grace and grandeur. The Pathway: A narrow, well-defined path invites visitors to explore further. The straight trajectory emphasizes purpose and direction. The fences alongside the pathway create a sense of order and delineation. Trees and Greenery: The area surrounding the building is adorned with various trees and plants. Their presence softens the scene, providing a natural contrast to the architectural lines. The greenery appears meticulously tended, contributing to the overall aesthetic. Fences: Short fences parallel the pathway, subtly marking boundaries. They evoke a sense of privacy and protection.
In 1865, Union soldiers had descended upon the University of Alabama during the Civil War. Union troops burned a large portion of the campus down, save for a few buildings. [Courtesy William Stanley Hoole Special Collections Library, University of Alabama]

The Burning of the University of Alabama

By Clark E. Center, Jr.

Monday, April 3, 1865. The cadets at the University of Alabama pursued their normal school-day routine.  They dressed and answered the call of the long roll at six o’clock, began classes at eight, and drilled at four. Their strictly regimented lives went on as they had every day, as they would every day for the foreseeable future. Or so it would seem. But, even then, the Union army was marching across the countryside. The next day, Federal troops, under the command of General Croxton, had possession of Tuscaloosa. And on that day–April 4, 1865–General Croxton made a decision that would change the University forever and set back education in the state by years. Under the command of Colonel Johnson, the Second Michigan Cavalry made their way to the University and burned it to the ground. This is the story of the days leading up to that fateful decision.

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