ANNISTON – In 1961, more than a dozen men and women rode into Anniston on a bus to challenge segregation, and the actions of these Freedom Riders will forever be a part of the nation’s civil rights history.
On Aug. 22, Alagasco President and Chief Operating Officer Dudley Reynolds will unveil and dedicate a “Lighting the Way” commemorative gaslight as a permanent marker in the city of Anniston honoring the Freedom Riders. Reynolds will be joined by Mayor Vaughn Stewart, other Anniston city leaders and schoolchildren. Also joining the celebration will be Hank Thomas, one of the Freedom Riders attacked during their courageous journey to test enforcement of federal rulings banning segregation on buses.
“Alagasco is proud to honor these men and women whose bravery helped strengthen the resolve of the Civil Rights Movement. This gaslight is a tribute to the significance of their mission and our hopes for the future,” Reynolds said.
The commemorative gaslight is located with the Freedom Riders mural on the building at 1025 Gurnee Avenue, across from the original Greyhound Bus station. The dedication ceremony will begin at 10 a.m.
“Fifty years ago, a group of heroes came through Anniston to encourage our city to live up to its ideals.
I salute Alagasco for commemorating the courage of those visionaries. May the gas lamp’s radiance serve as a constant reminder to follow the Freedom Riders’ lead in the fight for justice,” said Mayor Stewart.
This gaslight is the fourth of five to be unveiled in cities across Alabama. Alagasco employees voted for locations of significant historical events to receive the commemorative gaslights. Alagasco has dedicated lights in Birmingham, Tuscaloosa and Montgomery. The final gaslight will be unveiled next month in Selma.
