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Editorial

What was first rudimentarily sketched out on a napkin in the early ‘90s has now turned into a successful staple and major tourist attraction for Shelby County as the American Village continues to inspire young people and immerse visitors in America’s founding. That vision, foresight and initial sketch all came from the organization’s founder, Tom Walker, who departed this earth the very same day the American Village celebrated its crowning achievement—the opening of Independence Hall.

During the ‘90s, Walker recognized that children were not properly learning American history in the classrooms—an issue that has only deepened with each generation since. By creating the American Village, he found a way to offer a fun alternative to the classroom that brought the historical figures of America’s founding to life. What better way is there to teach visual learners than to give them historical interpreters to reenact the very events of the textbook? The world of America’s founding is so different from the one we live in today, so having that tangible element helps to put the circumstances, culture and attitudes of the time in perspective.

Now, the American Village stands as a major field trip destination for youth across the South and the locale is continuing to expand its repertoire of opportunities for different audiences with its new Independence Hall, which also offers lessons for high schoolers. The American Village also stands as the ideal spot to bring families together during Independence Day—which will see its largest gathering yet next year during the U.S. Semiquincentennial.

From now on, every step that is planted on the grounds of the American Village, every student that is inspired and every family that creates a happy memory—Walker has a share in all of that, leaving a lasting legacy in Shelby County that won’t be forgotten.