Story By: Madison Smith
MONTEVALLO, Ala. — On Thursday, Sept. 25, American Village officially opened its newest building, Independence Hall, a full-scale replica of the original structure in Philadelphia that serves as the centerpiece for the site’s educational programs on early American history.
The building is designed to serve as a reenactment space for the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Visitors can watch actors portraying the Founding Fathers and completely immerse themselves in the events of our nation’s founding.
The new attraction is now the tallest building in Shelby County and features a 104-seat theater where guests can watch historical reenactments. The hall also includes a replica of the Liberty Tree and the Green Dragon Tavern, the famed meeting place where many of the Founding Fathers once planned the future of the nation.
American Village organized an opening ceremony to mark the occasion, with opening remarks held in the grand ballroom and attended by honored guests from across Alabama, including Governor Kay Ivey, who was asked to cut the ceremonial ribbon.
The CEO of American Village, Colonel Alan B. Miller, opened the ceremony and spoke on the work and dedication that went into creating this new attraction. “It is in this hall that we will teach the great drama of an American people, often divided, who chose to come together and declare their independence from Great Britain,” he said.
“It is in this hall that we will teach the great drama of an American people, often divided, who chose to come together and declare their independence from Great Britain”
— Colonel Alan B. Miller, American Village CEO
The opening ceremony continued with the Sons of the American Revolution presenting the colors of the American flag, followed by a 21-gun salute.
Although the event was a celebration, it was marked by the passing of Tom Walker, founder of the American Village. Walker passed away earlier that morning, at the age of 71.
In his honor, Col. Miller announced the dedication of the new Independence Hall to Walker’s lifelong commitment to preserving American history and educating future generations. “Through it all, he never lost sight of the people, Miller said. “He never lost sight of his reason for doing it.”
Independence Hall has been a passion project for the visionaries behind the American Village and will now serve as a testament to Walker’s legacy of educating and preserving our nation’s history.
The new Independence Hall is now open to the public and will host daily reenactments, tours and educational programs. With this addition, the American Village continues its mission to bring history to life for visitors of all ages.
Vallo Vision News 