TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – The University of Alabama has completed the requirements to receive a $200,000 grant from The Kresge Foundation to help renovate and expand the Jones Archaeological Museum at Moundville Archaeological Park.
“We are thankful for the contributions made to Moundville, ensuring we would meet the challenge and continue to enhance the museum experience. We appreciate the opportunity to partner with The Kresge Foundation in conserving this significant piece of Alabama history,” said Pam Parker, UA vice president for advancement.
According to Bill Bomar, director of Moundville Archaeological Park, Moundville was America’s largest city north of Mexico around the 13th century. Since 1939, the Jones Museum has displayed artifacts and interpretive exhibits, providing information based on more than 100 years of archaeological research.
“Visiting this prehistoric site and exploring the ancient mounds is already a truly unique experience,” said Bomar. “We are genuinely excited about being able to present the extraordinary collection of Moundville art and the story of Native American cultures in engaging and highly visual ways.”
The Kresge Foundation is a national, private foundation that seeks to influence the quality of life for future generations by creating access and opportunity in underserved communities, improving the health of low-income people, supporting artistic expression, assisting in the revitalization of Detroit and advancing methods for dealing with global climate change.
A public celebration of the reopened Jones Archaeological Museum will be held from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, May 15. Admission will be half price on this day. Hours for the museum after opening will be daily from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission to the park and museum will be $8 for adults, $7 for seniors and $6 for students and children; children 5 and younger are free. Annual memberships that include free admission are available. For additional information, please contact Kelli Harris at 205/348-9826.
Contact
Susan Page, Advancement Communications, 205/348-4458, spage@advance.ua.edu