Inspiration of the Southern Soul

1/2 Day

Tour Jesse Owens Museum, Oakville, Alabama

In the 1936 Olympic Games in Berlin, a single man captured the attention of the world, winning 4 gold medals, an Olympic first. The Jesse Owens Museum, located about an hour from the Shoals area in Oakville, Alabama, depicts Owens' athletic and humanitarian achievements through interactive exhibits, a rare film about his Olympic feat and memorabilia from his time at Ohio State university, his Olympic efforts and life after his historic wins. A birth home replica, impressive bronze statue, 1936 torch replica and picnic pavilions are available. A resource center is on-site for research.

Tour Helen Keller's Birthplace, Tuscumbia, Alabama

Ivy Green is the name for the childhood home of Helen Keller, America's "First Lady of Courage." The house was built in 1820 and is a simple white clapboard house. The actual well pump where Helen Keller first communicated with Annie Sullivan is also located on the grounds. The property includes the cottage where Keller was born and the house where she spent her early childhood. "The Miracle Worker" play is performed on the grounds each summer.