HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WAFF) – Travel in the Jim Crow South always came with the potential threat of danger for Black families. Places to eat and stay were limited because of segregation, but in Huntsville, there was at least one place African Americans visiting the Rocket City could find safety.
The Gladys Jane Motel opened on April 23, 1959, at 1302 Posey Ave. It was Huntsville’s first motel for African Americans. Before it opened, traveling to the area would typically require staying with family and extensive planning.
“Many of them just traveled on the road and knew the distance that they need. They packed their lunches and whatever accommodations they need because they knew they couldn’t stop at various hotels or gas stations or restaurants because they would not be received,” Dr. Jane Blackwell said.
Building a business from determination
The motel was started by James and Lillie Mae Moore and named after their daughters, Gladys and Jane. Blackwell says her mother and father’s story is one of innovation in the face of injustice…