Renovated Oak Grove Rosenwald School in Gallion to reopen as community center, museum

The historic Oak Grove Rosenwald School in Gallion will reopen as a community center and museum after undergoing renovations. 

The building is now titled the Oak Grove School Heritage Center. 

"Built in 1925 through the Rosenwald School program, Oak Grove served as an educational home for African American students until it closed its doors in 1968," said a press release from the center's vice president, Patricia Hubbard. "After more than 50 years of standing vacant, (a) silent reminder of both struggle and perseverance, the historic Oak Grove Rosenwald School has been fully renovated and will reopen its doors as a community center and museum."

Hubbard said that it was added to the National Historic Register on March 3, 1998 and that it's the only school of its type in the area. 

"This reopening represents not only the preservation of a historic structure but also the revitalization of a cultural landmark that continues to inspire new generations," she said. 

The center has received grants from the Alabama Historical Commission, National Trust for Historic Preservation and Tombigbee Council. We also received grants from Walmart in Demopolis, Robertson Bank, The John C Webb III and Marie S Webb Foundation, Larkin & Scott Mortuary and Rice Heating as well as smaller donations from local churches and individuals.

A reopening ceremony will be held on Oct. 25 at 11 a.m. at the center's location on 142 Oak Grove Road in Gallion.