Prattville Unveils Markers Honoring Civil Rights History

Three new historical markers highlight key figures and landmarks in Autauga County's civil rights movement.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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The City of Prattville and One Community Outreach unveiled three new historical markers on Wednesday, commemorating important people and places from Autauga County's civil rights history. The markers honor civil rights activist Sallie Mae Hadnott, the first designated recreational facility for African American citizens in the county, and North Highland High School, which was the only high school for Black students until desegregation.

Why it matters

The new markers help preserve and educate the public about Prattville and Autauga County's civil rights legacy, which played a significant role in the broader Alabama civil rights movement. Highlighting these historical figures and locations ensures their contributions are not forgotten.

The details

The first marker commemorates Sallie Mae Hadnott, a civil rights activist who helped found and lead several organizations focused on improving conditions for African American citizens and expanding voting rights access. The second marker honors North Highland Park, which served as the first designated recreational facility for African American citizens in Autauga County. The third marker recognizes North Highland High School, which operated as Prattville's only high school for African American students until school desegregation occurred in Alabama.

  • The historical markers were unveiled on Wednesday, February 22, 2026.

The players

Sallie Mae Hadnott

A civil rights activist who helped found and lead several organizations focused on improving conditions for African American citizens and expanding voting rights access.

North Highland Park

The first designated recreational facility for African American citizens in Autauga County.

North Highland High School

The only high school for African American students in Prattville until school desegregation occurred in Alabama.

Rev. Michael F. Thurman

Former pastor of Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church.

Malcolm Cain

An alumnus of North Highland High School.

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What they’re saying

“Sallie Mae Hadnott helped found the National Alabama Democratic Party. When African Americans began to vote in mass for the Democratic Party, she played a significant role.”

— Rev. Michael F. Thurman, Former pastor of Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church

“I just drove past it. I see some work being done there even today.”

— Rev. Michael F. Thurman, Former pastor of Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church

“I hope that the younger people who don't know anything about it can look back and read about it and see where it has brought us today.”

— Malcolm Cain, Alumnus of North Highland High School

What’s next

The city plans to continue preserving and highlighting Prattville's civil rights history through additional historical markers and educational initiatives.

The takeaway

Prattville's new historical markers serve as an important reminder of the county's pivotal role in the Alabama civil rights movement, honoring the contributions of key figures and landmarks that paved the way for greater equality and justice.