How to Cross the Edmund Pettus Bridge, the Origin of the Selma Freedom March

After taking Business U.S. Highway through Selma, Alabama, it is impossible not to approach the Edmund Pettus Bridge as it crosses the Alabama River. The Pettus Bridge represented the origin of the Selma to Montgomery civil rights march in 1965 and it was at this bridge, at the first of three attempted crossings, that the police attacked the marchers in what became known as Bloody Sunday. Successfully crossing this bridge was possibly the most difficult part of the 55-mile journey to the Montgomery State Capitol.

Instructions

1. Approach the bridge by automobile and park just north at a cul-de-sac off Water Street. Stop at the terrace on the northwest corner or Business 80 and Water Street and read the inscriptions on the memorial.

2. Cross the bridge, noting the black lettering of the bridge's name just below the clearance sign. Other symbolism includes the chocolate color of the Alabama River.

3. Stop at the Memorial Park on the northeast corner of the bridge. There is a park down and off the main road that honors those who planned and made the walk possible. It also honors those, both black and white, that lost their lives during these events.

4. Step below the Memorial Park and follow a boardwalk through the dense forest and to a staging area generally used for anniversary celebrations, religious ceremonies and public concerts. You can actually walk below the construct of the bridge.

5. Return to the highway and cross the road, returning to town along the southern side of the bridge. Note the skyline of Selma; a mature downtown area where most buildings are no more than three stories high. The buildings along Water Street have changed little in the years since the march.

6. Stop at the National Voting Rights Museum on the northwest corner of the bridge. Read about the rich history and sacrifice made by those participating in this movement. Inquire about other places of historical interest, not only in Selma, but also along the 55-mile journey into Montgomery.

7. Note, within walking distance, the site where Unitarian Minister James Reeb was attacked and later died, or walk to the Brown Chapel A.M.E. Church and the George Washington Carver Homes, the actual start of the march.

Tips & Warnings

• Plan the trip to coincide with the actual events, March 7 through 9, 1965. The weather will be pleasant and the flowers in bloom. Otherwise, autumn offers colorful foliage. Avoid the trip during the winter when the weather is unpredictable or the summer with its humidity and mosquitoes.

Resources

• Official Website