You can show your love for Birmingham in a variety of ways as the city celebrates 150 years.
Mayor Randall L. Woodfin announced the city’s plans recently at Vulcan Park and Museum.
Programs include a letter writing campaign for citizens to express their love for Birmingham, a weekly update on historic tidbits about the city, a Milestone Monday social media campaign to highlight significant milestones citizens, organizations and businesses in Birmingham are experiencing in 2021. Many other events to celebrate citizens and the city will be announced soon.
The state legislature declared Birmingham a city on Dec. 19, 1871.
“Birmingham has been through a lot this past year,’’ Mayor Woodfin said. “But true to our legacy, we’re still here, still standing. That’s why our theme for our 150th celebration is “Built to Last’’ - it has always described our heart, our fortitude and our legacy.”
“This is our opportunity to not only celebrate Birmingham but also people who live, work and play here,’’ Mayor Woodfin said.
City facilities and venues will take part in the 150th celebration including Birmingham Public Library, Arlington House, Sloss Furnaces, Park and Rec, the Birmingham Museum of Art, Department of Youth Services, Boutwell Auditorium, Southern Museum of Flight and the Negro Southern League Museum.
Vulcan CEO Darlene Negrotto joined the mayor in announcing that this year’s Thunder on the Mountain fireworks display on July 4 will tie in the 150th, including music about Birmingham as well as patriotic music.
People may submit their “I Love Birmingham Because’’ letters to builttolast@birminghamal.gov. The letters will be stored at the Birmingham Public Library’s Archives Department. People celebrating major milestones in 2021 are also encouraged to submit nominations to builttolast@birminghamal.gov.
In addition to the city activities, several organizations and companies are expected to add their own events in support of the 150th. Details about several initiatives can be found at www.birminghamal.gov/150.