Hobson City, AL — On Sunday, August 11, 2024, Hobson City Mayor Alberta McCrory kicked off a series of festivities marking the town’s 125th anniversary with a spirited gospel show at the local park. The event, attended by a large and enthusiastic crowd, celebrated Hobson City’s milestone as Alabama’s first incorporated all-black municipality.
“We’ve been talking about doing this for some years now,” Mayor McCrory said, addressing the attendees. “Having a gospel show out here in the park has finally come to fruition. We came to praise the Lord, uplift the name of Jesus, and celebrate our 125 years of history.”
The gospel show was part of a larger series of events planned for the anniversary week, which began with a worship service earlier in the day. The festival featured performances by the Shallow Spirituals and Voices of Faith from Pell City, Alabama, offering a rich display of gospel music that underscored the cultural significance of the event.
The celebration is set to continue with several key events throughout the week. On Thursday, August 15, the town will host a Community Night, including a Stop the Violence fashion show coordinated by Vanessa Irvin, and honor local citizens for their contributions to maintaining and promoting Hobson City.
Friday, August 16, will feature the Mayor’s Gala at the Oxford Civic Center, where Dr. Barbara Boyd of House District 32 and Dr. David Satcher, the 16th Surgeon General of the U.S., will be celebrated for their achievements and contributions. The gala, chaired by Terrence Smiley of Alabama Power, has already seen a high demand, leading to additional seating being added to accommodate attendees.
Saturday’s activities will see families from across the country converging on Hobson City for a day of celebration, including family reunions and community gatherings. With over 1,500 expected visitors, the park will be alive with music, food, and festivities.
Mayor McCrory emphasized the importance of these events for preserving the town’s heritage and building community spirit. “This is a great time to celebrate our history and the enduring legacy of Hobson City,” she said. “We aim to create lasting memories while honoring those who have helped shape our community.”
The celebration also highlights ongoing efforts to preserve historic buildings and support local projects, with funds from the Mayor’s Gala contributing to these initiatives.
As Hobson City marks its 125th Founder’s Day, the community is not only celebrating its past but also looking forward to a future strengthened by unity and shared history.
Video by Shasta Jones
