TUSCUMBIA-A historic marker, recently erected at “Shady Dell”, the home of the late Dr. A.W. Davis, located at 606 East Eighth Street, Tuscumbia, will be unveiled and dedicated on Tuesday, December 27, at 2:00 p.m. The public is invited to join members of the Stewart family, current owners of the house, in honoring the City’s esteemed Black physician, who for many years, in the early to mid 1900’s, was a prominent health-care provider and leader among local African Americans and the community at large. He is especially remembered at Christmas time. Each year during the holiday season while he practiced medicine, he erected a Nativity Scene at the site of his medical practice. While the office is no longer standing, a stone monument marks its site, across the street from the Davis home place.
“Shady Dell” was listed in 2021 on the Alabama Register of Landmarks and Heritage. It is a frame house of Dutch Colonial style, built in 1920. A fish pond which once graced the grounds may still be observed. The home was purchased from the Davis estate by Barbara and Glen Stewart. Their children, Carolyn Stewart, Wayne Stewart and Danita Billins are the current owners. Restoration efforts are underway.
Participants in the brief, outdoor dedication and unveiling ceremony are to include the Rev. Ernest Smith, Mayor William Foster, Tuscumbia City Council member Geraldine Thompson, and representative from the Alabama Legislative delegation, along with members of the Tuscumbia Historic Preservation Commission and the Colbert County Historical Landmarks Foundation.
The marker is the official recognition of the historical significance of the property by the Alabama Historical Commission. For more information: 404-290-4616
