From March 19 until July 20, 2024, the Mildred Westervelt Warner Transportation Museum will be presenting Southern Queer History: Tuscaloosa Lesbian Coalition, an exhibit aimed at uncovering the hidden history of the queer community in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

In collaboration with the Summersell Center for the Study of the South, University of Alabama Graduate Student, Callum Campbell, researched the obscured narratives of the queer community through the lens of the Tuscaloosa Lesbian Coalition (TLC). By examining how the queer community communicated, organized events, and established safe spaces amidst challenging social and political circumstances, this exhibit sheds light on the resilience and resourcefulness of the Tuscaloosa’s queer community and express appreciation for their contributions to the broader social fabric of the city.

“I’ve aimed to highlight the challenges faced by queer individuals and emphasize our community’s enduring presence and strength,” said Callum Campbell. “Ultimately, I hope this exhibit fosters empathy, dialogue, and a greater sense of inclusivity and acceptance.”

The Mildred Westervelt Warner Transportation Museum is located at 1901 Jack Warner Pkwy, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401. The museum’s hours of operation are Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 am until 4:30 pm. Admission to the Mildred Westervelt Warner Transportation Museum is always free, but there is a small fee for guided tours. To schedule group tours, please call (205) 248-4931.

Located at Tuscaloosa’s historic Queen City Park along the Black Warrior River, the Mildred Westervelt Warner Transportation Museum advances knowledge and appreciation of Tuscaloosa’s local and regional history and natural resources through exhibits, museum educational programs, and educational outreach efforts.

The University of Alabama Museums, a division of the College of Arts and Sciences that encompasses five museums, two research departments, and the Emmy-winning Discovering Alabama television program.