Jeff Speegle

Stories from the Iron Bowl
11:00 AM

For more than a century, the Iron Bowl has been more than a football game—it has been a defining part of Alabama culture. Join former Alabama and Auburn players as they share firsthand stories from the state's most celebrated rivalry. Moderated by ABC 33/40 Sports Director Jeff Speegle, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at unforgettable moments, fierce competition, lasting friendships, and the unique place the Iron Bowl holds in the heart of Alabama. Featuring Gary Rutledge, Tyler Watts, Terry Henley, and additional special guests.

Beyond the Scoreboard: Stories from the Iron Bowl

Go behind the wall and into the moments that made racing history as legendary track announcer Matt Coulter shares unforgettable stories from Talladega Superspeedway. From photo finished and dramatic wrecks to larger-than-like personalities and behind-the-scene memories, this fast-paced session celebrates Alabama’s unique place in America motorsports culture.

Talladega: Stories from the Fastest Track in America

In this richly illustrated talk, Dr. Graham Boettcher explores how the visual arts and early biographies helped shape the mythology of George Washington as the “Father of Our Country,” transforming a soldier-statesman into one of the most enduring icons in American history. Drawing on his scholarship on the art of the Revolutionary era and the early republic, Boettcher examines how artists helped define the visual identity of the new nation and the ideals it aspired to embody.

Inventing George Washington: The Making of an American Icon

Barbecue is more than a meal in Alabama—it is a tradition passed down through generations. Join Van Sykes of the legendary Bob Sykes Bar-B-Q family as he explores the history of Alabama barbecue, the pitmasters who shaped its distinctive flavors, and the stories behind one of the state's most beloved culinary traditions. From wood smoke and secret sauces to family recipes and community gatherings, discover how barbecue became an enduring part of Alabama's story.

Smoke, Sauce & Southern Stories: The Legacy of Alabama Barbecue

In Dear Denise: Letters to the Sister I Never Knew, author Lisa McNair reflects on family, remembrance, forgiveness, and the enduring impact of history. Through personal stories and heartfelt reflections, she shares a powerful message about love, resilience, and the hope that can emerge from even the most difficult chapters of the American story.

Dear Denise: Remembering, Healing, and Hope

Discover the remarkable story of Leeds, Alabama, and the three sons of this small community who earned our nation's highest military honor, the Medal of Honor. Presented by the Leeds Historical Society, this inspiring program explores the lives, service, and legacy of three extraordinary Americans whose courage brought lasting distinction to their hometown. Join Leeds Historical Society President Randy Ray as he shares the story of a community with an uncommon legacy of valor.

Three Heroes, One Small Town

Presented by the Jesse Owens Museum, Teague McKay shares the remarkable story of Jesse Owens, one of America’s greatest athletes and an enduring symbol of perseverance and character. Discover how his journey began in Alabama and how a young man from the state went on to inspire the world and leave a lasting legacy far beyond the Olympic Games.

The Jesse Owens Story: Alabama’s Olympic Hero

Former University of Alabama football player and Lettermen of the USA founder Darryl Fuhrman shares how a tornado relief effort grew into a national organization dedicated to supporting wounded and honorably discharged veterans. Discover how athletes, coaches, and communities continue to answer the call to serve.

From the Playing Field to Serving Those Who Served

A completely improvised comedy show by Chaotic Good Improv inspired by American history, legendary personalities, and your audience suggestions. No script. No rehearsals. Plenty of chaos.

Give Me Liberty…and a suggestion

Honoring Our Fallen: The Meaning of the Flag Presentation

The Boy Scouts of America will explain how the 13 precise folds of the U.S. flag transform it into a symbolic triangle. Each fold honors a core American value, from our founding colonies to our veterans' sacrifices.

Step into the ballroom of eighteenth-century America and discover the dances enjoyed by our Founding Fathers and Mothers. Learn about the history of social dancing, the structure of English country dances, and the role balls played in colonial society. Hear from American Village Officer of Interpretive Programs, Nancy Moore Estes, what attending a ball was like during the Founding era, then put history into motion by trying some of the basic dance figures and movements for yourself.

Dancing Through History

Step into the world of eighteenth-century America and discover what our founding mothers and fathers actually wore. From stays and waistcoats to stockings, shoes, and carefully styled garments, explore how clothing reflected status, practicality, and identity in the Georgian era. Hear from American Village Director of Historical Clothing, Angel Laurens Evans. Alongside fashion, learn about everyday hygiene practices and routines that shaped daily life in the eighteenth century, offering a closer look at the people who shaped the beginning of this country.

The Georgians:  They’re Just Like Us

All aboard for a journey through the history of the railroads that helped build a nation. Presented by the Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum and Alan Dismukes (Railroad Preservationist & Historian), this fascinating program explores how the iron horse connected communities, fueled commerce, and transformed the American landscape from coast to coast.

“Y’all Aboard!”: The Essential Role of Railroads in America’s Development

Join Henry Sledge for a deeply personal conversation about his father, Eugene B. Sledge, whose experiences in the Pacific War inspired the acclaimed memoir With the Old Breed. Through family memories and untold stories, discover the man behind the book and gain new insight into the courage, sacrifice, and enduring legacy of the Greatest Generation.

The Old Breed… The Complete Story Revealed

Service After Service: A Veteran’s Story of Leadership, Resilience, and Purpose

Army veteran Michael Nussbaum shares his story of service in Fallujah, Iraq, and his continuing work to support and encourage fellow veterans. This conversation will explore military service, the transition home, veteran mental health, and the importance of connection, purpose, and citizenship after the uniform comes off.

How do you commemorate 250 years of the American story? Join Ferris Stephens as he shares the inspiration behind a special collection of poems commissioned for the Semiquincentennial and reflects on the enduring power of verse to preserve memory, inspire gratitude, and celebrate the American spirit.

Words for a Nation

Join Air Force veteran and dentist Dr. Bethanie Swanson for a conversation about military service, caring for those who serve, and the continuing mission of supporting veterans and their families. Through stories from her career in the Air Force and her work in dentistry, Dr. Swanson reflects on how service to others can continue long after the uniform is retired.

A Lifetime of Service

A singing and tap-dance performance of Uncle Sam telling his story, focusing on the people from whom he sprang, those who have followed, and their journey together.  Historically accurate, the story is conveyed in an entertaining way using patriotic songs representative of the American experience and addressing their significance then and for today by retired US Air Force Lt. Colonel Dave Dunlap.

The Shaping of Uncle Sam

Time Travel with the Freedom Friends: Discover America’s Story!

Join Cameron Marasco, author of the Freedom Friends children’s book series, as she shares stories of courage, friendship, and heroes who helped shape our nation!

Did you know that the eighteenth century was a time of innovation and discovery? Martha Washington saw a lot of interesting, entertaining, and surprising events and exhibits during her life though most people are unaware of them. Author Betty Bolte will share some of the rather surprising events and innovations Martha witnessed that Betty uncovered in her research of the first First Lady’s life and times.

Little Known History of Martha Washington’s Life & Times

Long before Alabama became a state, the Gulf South played a surprising and often overlooked role in the fight for independence. Join historian and author Mike Bunn as he uncovers the remarkable people, conflicts, and events that reveal why some historians have called this region America's "Fourteenth Colony."

14th Colony: The Forgotten Story of the Gulf South During the Revolution

Join American Village Chief Historian and America 250 Commissioner Val Crofts as he explores how artist John Singleton Copley captured the people, personalities, and tensions that defined the Revolutionary era. Through his remarkable portraits, discover the faces behind the American story and the world they helped shape.

Painting a Revolution: John Singleton Copley and the Faces of an Era

Americans remember George Washington as the “Father of His Country,” the military strategist who won the American Revolution and became the first President. This talk by Dr. Jonathan Den-Hartog, Samford University Professor of American History, will describe Washington’s early days, when as a young man on the frontier he contributed to war that would remake the entire world. The experiences of the 1760s laid the groundwork for the American Revolution—both for America and for George Washington.

Young George Washington and the French & Indian War

How did Alabama receive its own Liberty Bell? Museum Collections Curator Jenna Abbott shares the fascinating history of Alabama’s replica Liberty Bell — from the nationwide Independence Bond Drive of the 1950s to the careful conservation efforts preserving it for America’s 250th anniversary and future generations.

Ringing in the 250th: Alabama’s Liberty Bell and Its Legacy

While agriculture dominated much of Alabama's early history, iron and industry would come to define a new era. Join Ty Malugani of Sloss Furnaces as he traces the rise of Birmingham and the industrial boom that transformed the state and reshaped the South.

Forging Alabama: The Iron, Coal, and Steel That Built a State

Join artist Tara Stallworth Lee as she presents An Alabama Song: Volume One, a visual journey through Alabama's rich musical and cultural landscape. From Sun Ra's Birmingham roots to the experimental films of Will Hindle, discover the artists, voices, and stories that have helped shape the sounds—and the spirit—of Alabama.

An Alabama Song: Mapping the Sounds of Home

Come explore how General George Washington set the example for American Perseverance during the winter 1777-1778 winter encampment at Valley Forge. This session is for kids as well as adults as Dr. Jeff Scott will explore George Washington's perseverance and connect it to his children's book, Oscar Visits Valley Forge. This will be a dynamic experience as America turns 250!!

Perseverance of George Washington at Valley Forge

Few presidents transformed the United States as dramatically as James K. Polk. Join historian Dr. Jeff Scott as he explores the life and presidency of America's eleventh president and examines how his vision and policies helped fuel westward expansion and reshape the nation.

President James K. Polk: A Man of Destiny & Westward Migration

In 1778, Captain James Willing of the Continental Navy led a daring expedition into British West Florida with the goal of securing a vital supply route from Spanish-controlled New Orleans to the American patriots fighting in the northern colonies. Along the Mississippi River, Willing and his raiders seized goods from Loyalist plantations and carried them back to New Orleans. Though much of West Florida sought to remain neutral or loyal to the Crown, the Willing Raids brought the American Revolution to the Gulf Coast. Join Brantley James, Curator of Education at the History Museum of Mobile, for the story of this little-known chapter of America's fight for independence.

The Willing Raids

Long before the first shots were fired, America's pastors were helping shape the ideas that would lead to independence. Known by the British as the "Black Robe Regiment," these ministers preached liberty, self-government, and resistance to tyranny from their pulpits. Join Rick Burgess and discover how faith, conviction, and courage helped inspire a revolution and sustain a nation at war.

Pulpits of Liberty: The Preachers Who Helped Spark a Revolution

The Words That Changed the World: Writing the Declaration of Independence

Why did the Declaration of Independence matter so deeply in 1776? Steve Murray explores the creation, language, and influence of America’s founding document, examining how its words inspired audiences both at home and around the world.

When Americans think of the Revolutionary War, they often picture battles in the thirteen colonies. But along the Gulf Coast, another fight for freedom was underway. Discover how Spanish Governor Bernardo de Gálvez led daring campaigns from New Orleans to Mobile, driving British forces from West Florida and helping secure victory for the American cause. Kyle Williams, Curator of Living History at the History Museum of Mobile, shines a light on a critical chapter of the Revolution that unfolded right here on the Gulf Coast.

Galvez and the Gulf: Spain's Forgotten Revolution

Every family has a story waiting to be discovered. Courtney Pinkard offers an introduction to researching your family history using the resources of the Alabama Department of Archives & History, with practical guidance for beginners and a look at the records, photographs, documents, and hidden connections that bring the past to life.

Find Your Story: Genealogy and the Alabama State Archives

Architect Mike Hamrick shares the story behind the creation of American Village’s iconic Independence Hall replica — from research trips to Philadelphia to the challenge of honoring 18th-century design with modern materials, craftsmanship, and engineering

Building Independence: Recreating America’s Most Historic Room

The fight for independence has never been more thrilling than in 1776!

Selected scenes from the musical 1776, presented by Theatre Huntsville

This Tony Award-winning musical brings history to life with sharp wit, stirring songs, and a behind-the-scenes look at the passionate (and often chaotic) debates that led to the signing of the Declaration of Independence. John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and Thomas Jefferson battle deadlines, doubts, and each other in a race to forge a nation—proving that revolution is anything but easy.

Music and Lyrics by Sherman Edwards
Book by Peter Stone

Directed by Leslie Gates

Wanna see a magic trick? Gather all ages for this interactive story time and we’ll share with you the secret of what’s behind the Magic City’s magic. Come learn more about Birmingham alongside Victoria Hardi, Education Programs Manager from Vulcan Park & Museum, and a special guest from our skyline.

Making Magic: Birmingham's Vulcan

After losing his left arm and left leg in an IED attack during Operation Iraqi Freedom, Sergeant Noah Galloway faced a battle unlike any he had encountered in combat. Hear the inspiring story of how this Purple Heart recipient overcame adversity, rediscovered purpose through fitness, and embraced a life defined not by limitations, but by resilience, hope, and the power of living with no excuses.

Living with no Excuses. The Remarkable Rebirth of an American Soldier

Altevese Rosario-Jones will discuss the origin and legacy of the 110 Clotilda Survivors. The establishment of a cultural settlement in Africatown, AL, and its impact on the people and the region. The session will conclude with the ongoing work of the Clotilda Descendants Association as they continue to live in and build upon the legacy their ancestors provided, ensuring the world never forgets their history. 

Still We Rise: The Legacy of the Clotilda Survivors

Presented by Johnny Lippeatt, Vice Commander, American Legion Post 138, Calera

Founded in the aftermath of World War I, the American Legion has spent more than a century supporting veterans, strengthening communities, and preserving the ideals of American citizenship. Discover the remarkable history and enduring mission of one of America's most influential veterans organizations.

The American Legion: A Century of Service

Erinn Townsend & Jessica Dees explore the complex and often overlooked history of First Americans, from the sophisticated civilization at Moundville and its descendants to the contributions of Indigenous peoples to democracy, and the lasting impact of forced removal. Drawing on archaeology, history, and Indigenous perspectives, they invite attendees to reconsider the narratives they have inherited and engage with a more complete story of American history

Moundville: First Americans: A More Complete Story

Discover how the Alabama USA Semiquincentennial Commission is coordinating events and initiatives across the state to commemorate America's 250th birthday and ensure that every Alabamian has an opportunity to be part of this historic celebration. A250AL Executive Officer, Natalie Steed, tells the story

Alabama at 250: A Statewide Celebration