Travel Along the Dora Franklin Finley African American Heritage Trail

Discover the history and often unsung heroes of Mobile’s ethnically diverse past on the Dora Franklin Finley African-American Heritage Trail. The trail's more than 40 points of interest reveal otherwise forgotten chapters of history and stories of unrelenting courage. "You can't know where you're going until you know where you've been," they say. Well, the Dora Franklin Finley African American Heritage Trail provides just such an opportunity. The trail is a window to the rich history of Mobile, AL. Mobile is nothing if not culturally diverse - and it pretty much always has been that way. French, Spanish, British, Creole, Catholic, Greek, African and more. These groups and many others have played their part, with the end result that Mobile has been and remains a colorful and diverse community.

As the name implies, Mobile's African American Heritage Trail focuses specifically on African American history in Mobile. The trail brings the stories to life through more than 40 different points of interest. These include Fort Conde, the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, Africatown, and the home of Leroy "Satchel" Paige, to name but a few. Travel the trail with a guide or enjoy the freedom of a self-guided tour. Maps for self-guided driving or walking tours of the trail can be found on the trail website. Guided tours of the trail include Dowtown Walking Tours and Step-On Motor Coach Tours. Dowtown Walking Tours start off from Cathedral Square, at noon on the 3rd Wednesday of each month, by appointment. Step-On Motor Coach Tours need to be reserved online via the contact info found on  www.dffaaht.org. Knowledgeable, friendly docents, well-versed in Mobile's history head both tours. You'll learn about African survivors from the last slave ship to enter the US, see some of the state's oldest churches, and even visit a slave market.

Be sure to visit the trail website at www.dffaaht.org for a full list of stops, events, and to register for tours. You can also visit the Dora Franklin Finley African-American Heritage Trail on Facebook.

Malaga Inn is located in downtown Mobile, close many of the stops along the Dora Franklin Finley African American Heritage Trail. Let our 39 private rooms and suites show your the true meaning of comfort, value, and Southern hospitality. Book your stay at Malaga Inn today!