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Alabama to be honored with statues

By Kelly Townsend
The Times-Journal

Published May 21, 2008

In a few weeks, a dedication ceremony will take place at City Park to honor the Country Music Hall of Fame super group Alabama.

Larger-than-life bronze statues of the musicians will be dedicated during a ceremony on June 7.

The ceremony will take place at City Park in downtown Fort Payne.

Government officials, music executives, friends, fans and family members will assemble to honor the band.

The public is invited to attend the dedication ceremony at 11 a.m.

Three members of the group grew up in Fort Payne and all four have lived in the area throughout most of their careers.

“We’re extremely proud that their home has been in Alabama,” said Fort Payne City Council President Johnny Eberhart. “We wanted to carve that pride in stone.”

During a career that lasted more than 30 years, the band produced 21 gold, platinum and multi-platinum albums and 42 number one singles, selling more than 73 million records.

Alabama has received more than 150 industry awards including eight country music “Entertainer of the Year” honors, two Grammys, two people’s choice awards and their own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Alabama was named the Artist of the Decade by the Academy of Country Music in 1989 and Country Group of the Century by the Recording Industry Association of America in 1999.

“They have entertained millions of loyal fans,” Eberhart said.

And that’s why the corner of City Park at Gault Avenue and Fourth Street NE is being prepared for the statues.

Eberhart said sandstone, limestone and reclaimed Fort Payne boom-era bricks are being used.

The entire park is currently being renovated to enhance the overall visitor experience.

City Clerk Jim McGee said the statues currently are being housed at the Alabama Fan Club and Museum and will be moved to the park before the dedication.

Eberhart and Mayor Bill Jordan are directing the park improvements and statue installation.

“We want Alabama fans to join us in Fort Payne for this very special day,” Jordan said.

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