BREAKING BARRIERS III: FOUNDATION FOR SUCCESS OPENS FEB. 5 AT MUSEUM OF PELL CITY

PELL CITY, Ala. — The Museum of Pell City will open Breaking Barriers III: Foundation for Success on Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026, at 11 a.m., honoring the legacy of early Black educators who shaped generations of students and helped build the educational foundation of the Pell City community.

Opening during Black History Month, the exhibit is the third installment in the Museum’s Breaking Barriers series, which highlights stories of perseverance, leadership, and progress within Pell City’s Black community. Each year introduces a new theme and features an original short film created through the Museum’s Oral History Studio.

This year’s exhibit focuses on educators—many of whom taught at the historic St. Clair County Training School (SCCTS), the school for Black students prior to integration into Pell City High School.

“We are honored to continue to highlight the legacy of St. Clair County Training School,” said Rotunda Forman, board member and exhibit chair. “Principals, teachers, and the support staff all played a role in the foundation for success for the students.”

The opening reception will be held in the Pell City Municipal Complex banquet room, with performances by the Pell City High School Choir as guests arrive. Seating is limited. The keynote speaker will be Larry Charles Turner, a SCCTS alumnus, former band director during the school’s final year, U.S. Army Special Forces veteran, and longtime community leader.

The exhibit includes archival photographs, artifacts, narrative panels, and a short documentary film featuring educators, former students, and family members. An interactive component will invite visitors to share stories about teachers, coaches, or mentors who influenced their lives.

The Museum of Pell City is located on the second floor of the Pell City Municipal Complex. Admission is free and open to the public.

For more information, visit museumofpellcity.org.