Pyramid Publishing | Preserving Alabama History

They Too Call Alabama Home documents the lives and accomplishments of African Americans who were born in Alabama, made significant contributions within the state, or established themselves elsewhere after leaving Alabama. 

Spanning the years 1800 through 1999, this comprehensive collection brings together profiles of individuals whose achievements influenced education, business, politics, government, military service, religion, sports, entertainment, and community leadership. 

The book began with a presentation Dr. Bailey delivered at a local university in October 1983. Titled "Prominent Blacks in Twentieth-Century Alabama," the presentation explored African Americans who had achieved distinction while calling Alabama home. Following the presentation, Dr. Bailey expanded his research into a much larger book- length project. 

The resulting publication recognizes both widely known figures and individuals whose accomplishments have received less public attention. Some were born in Alabama and built their careers within the state. Others went on to achieve distinction elsewhere, while individuals from other places came to Alabama and became part of its history.

Developing They Too Call Alabama Home required years of research and contributions from numerous individuals and institutions. 

Dr. Bailey consulted newspapers, journals, magazines, books, historical collections, and other research materials. He also contacted nearly 200 individuals to gather additional information and provide opportunities for personal contributions to the profiles. 

His research extended throughout the United States, involving libraries, archives, museums, universities, historical organizations, and educational institutions. 

Alabama research resources included the Alabama Department of Archives and History, Alabama Historical Commission, Alabama Music Hall of Fame, Alabama Sports Hall of Fame and Museum, Birmingham Public Library, Talladega College, and Alabama Agricultural & Mechanical University, among others.

This publication is particularly valuable for:

• Students and educators studying Alabama and African American history
• Genealogists and family historians researching Alabama families
• Historians and researchers exploring Southern history
• Libraries and historical societies expanding their collections
• Community organizations preserving local heritage
• Readers interested in African American achievement and contributions

By documenting individuals across different professions, communities, and generations, They Too Call Alabama Home provides a broader understanding of African American life and achievement connected to Alabama.

Neither Carpetbaggers Nor Scalawags by Dr. Richard Bailey examines Alabama during the Reconstruction era following the Civil War, with particular emphasis on African American political participation and the Black men who held public office between 1867 and 1878. 

Following emancipation, formerly enslaved African Americans faced significant challenges as they worked to establish new lives, families, communities, schools, churches, and businesses. During this transformative period, Black Alabamians also began participating directly in government and public affairs. This book documents the experiences and contributions of Black officeholders who helped shape Alabama's political landscape during Reconstruction. 

Rather than examining Reconstruction solely through political events and government changes, Dr. Bailey explores the individuals who participated in this important period of Alabama history and the broader social, educational, and economic environment in which they lived.

The years following the Civil War brought profound changes to Alabama. Emancipation created new opportunities for African Americans, but freedom did not eliminate the social, economic, and political obstacles they faced. 

Black Alabamians worked to establish independent lives and communities while pursuing educational opportunities, economic stability, and meaningful participation in government. 

Neither Carpetbaggers Nor Scalawags examines this history through the lives and experiences of African American officeholders, providing insight into:

• Black political participation following emancipation
• African American leadership during Reconstruction
• Alabama government following the Civil War
• The development of Black communities and institutions 
• Educational opportunities and community development
• Economic and social challenges facing formerly enslaved people
• The changing political structure of Reconstruction-era Alabama

These stories demonstrate that African Americans were active participants in Alabama's political and social development during Reconstruction, not simply observers of historical events.

The book is also particularly useful for Alabama genealogists and family historians researching African American families and communities. 

Information about Reconstruction-era political leaders and public officials can help researchers identify individuals who played important roles in their communities during the years immediately following the Civil War. 

The revised and reedited edition includes an expanded index, making it easier for readers and researchers to locate names and historical information throughout the book.

Recognized for its historical and educational significance, Neither Carpetbaggers Nor Scalawags was selected by the Alabama Board of Education as a supplemental educational text. 

This distinction makes the publication an especially valuable resource for students, teachers, educators, and institutions studying Alabama history, Reconstruction, and African American political leadership.

This publication is particularly relevant to:

• Students and educators studying Reconstruction and the Civil War era 
• Historians and researchers exploring African American political history 
• Genealogists researching Alabama families and communities
• Libraries and historical societies 
• Readers interested in post-Civil War Alabama and Southern history 
• Community organizations preserving African American heritage

Dr. Richard Bailey is available for speaking engagements throughout Montgomery and across Alabama, with select opportunities available nationwide. 

As an experienced historian, author, researcher, and preservation advocate, Dr. Bailey delivers informative presentations that help audiences better understand Alabama's history and the individuals who shaped it. 

His presentations draw on decades of historical research and can be tailored to the interests, educational goals, and needs of each audience.

• Alabama History: The people, places, and events that shaped the state's development.
• African American History: The accomplishments and contributions of African Americans throughout Alabama and the nation.
• Reconstruction in Alabama: The political, social, and economic changes following the Civil War, including the role of Black officeholders.
• Civil Rights History: The people, events, and movements that influenced the Civil Rights Movement and its lasting impact.
• Historic Preservation: Protecting historic sites, markers, landmarks, and community heritage.
• Genealogy and Historical Research: Using historical records and resources to uncover family histories and local connections. 
• Community Heritage: Preserving the stories and experiences that define Alabama's communities.
• Monument Protection: Understanding the importance of preserving and protecting Alabama's historical landmarks and monuments.

Organizations can also arrange presentations based on Dr. Bailey's published works.

Programs may focus on They Too Call Alabama Home or Neither Carpetbaggers Nor Scalawags, giving audiences an

opportunity to explore the research behind each publication, discuss important historical figures, and ask questions.

These presentations are suitable for:

● Schools and classrooms

● Universities and colleges

● Historical societies

● Libraries

● Churches

● Museums

● Civic organizations

● Rotary Clubs and Federated Clubs

● Book clubs

● Community groups

Dr. Bailey is available to work with book clubs, civic organizations, historical groups, and community organizations interested in exploring Alabama history. 

Presentations and discussions can be arranged in person or virtually through Zoom, allowing organizations to bring members together regardless of location.

Groups reading one of Dr. Bailey's books can also make arrangements for members to purchase copies to accompany their discussion or presentation. 

Programs can be customized around specific books, historical periods, or topics that align with your organization's interests.

Whether you are organizing an educational program, conference, historical society meeting, library event, book club discussion, or community gathering, Dr. Bailey can provide an informative and engaging presentation.