On Saturday, February 15th Historic Blakeley State Park invites all those interested in the literary arts to join us for our annual Alabama Authors Day. A once-a-year event, this special celebration showcases the work of accomplished writers throughout the state, with an emphasis on Gulf Coast authors and those who explore topics associated with history and natural heritage. 

This year’s lineup includes acclaimed Mobile historian John Sledge with his latest book, The Gulf of Mexico: A Maritime History; Dr. Gregory Waselkov, celebrated archaeologist and Professor Emeritus at the University of South Alabama to discuss The Old Federal Road in Alabama: An Illustrated Guide; and accomplished photographer John Dersham with My Alabama: John Dersham Photographs a State.

Author presentations and booksignings begin at 11:15 AM at the Wehle Center

Presentations are complimentary with regular admission or cruise tickets

Prior to this program, join us as we take an excursion by boat to remote Bayou Canot, located just off the Mobile River north of the city. This tranquil spot was the scene of two of the most dramatic tragedies in regional history: the derailment of Amtrak’s “Sunset Limited” in 1993 and the last documented importation of African slaves into the United States in 1860 aboard the Clotilda.

Cruise time: 9-11 AM; $25 for adults/$15 for kids ages 6-12.