Meet Dr. Richard Bailey

Richard Bailey is an American historian who has made significant contributions to our understanding of Alabama's history, particularly during Reconstruction.

Here are some key points about him:

 *Focus on Reconstruction: His work often centers on the experiences of African Americans in Alabama during Reconstruction, including the roles of Black leaders and the challenges they faced.

* Civil Rights Activism: In addition to his scholarly work, Bailey is actively involved in civil rights education and awareness. He leads historical tours and has been a prominent figure in commemorating the legacy of the Civil Rights Movement in Montgomery. The Montgomery Advertiser named him its Community Hero for February 2021.

*Neither Carpetbaggers Nor Scalawags: Black Officeholders during the Reconstruction of Alabama, 1867–1878. This book, which examines the contributions of African American officials in Alabama during Reconstruction, was a notable achievement and was adopted by the Alabama State Board of Education.

 *The Birmingham Public Library named his They Too Call Alabama Home: African American Profiles, 1800–1999 its Book of the Month for February 2017.

A Journey Through Alabama’s History

Dr. Bailey began his career as a tour guide in 1985 with his first citywide bus tour of Montgomery. Since then, he has expanded his offerings to include:

• Civil Rights Landmarks Tours: Visit sites central to the civil rights movement, including Dexter Avenue and Rosa L. Parks Avenue.
• Historic Cemeteries Tours: Explore Oakwood and Lincoln Cemeteries and learn about Alabama’s notable figures.
• Walking and Bus Tours: Discover Montgomery and surrounding areas with options to suit any group size.
• VIP and Specialized Tours: Tailored experiences for ambassadors, estate officials, and anyone seeking a custom historical journey.
  

Historian Richard Bailey, left to right, Mayor Todd Strange, Sen. David Burkette, Lois Cortell, Montgomery’s senior development manager, and Felicia Bell, Director of the Rosa Parks Museum, unveil a marker during the grand opening of Lower Dexter Avenue Park Thursday, June 21, 2018. The park, located next to the Kress building, occupies the space of the former Montgomery Fair department store, where civil rights icon Rosa Park once worked.



Historian Richard Bailey praised the approach and the effort to embrace both “the Montgomery of yesterday and the Montgomery of today.” And he noted that other cities with their own troubled histories, across the South and across the nation, are taking cues from that approach.

“We need to combine those histories … to say this is the past, but this is a new Montgomery,” Bailey said. “People who came out today, I didn’t see a frown on anyone’s face. It’s a wonderful day.”

Bailey’s Contributions to Alabama’s Story

Dr. Bailey is the author of notable works, including Neither Carpetbaggers nor Scalawags and They Too Call Alabama Home. He has been featured on platforms like C-SPAN, ABC, and NBC, discussing everything from Alabama history to the civil rights movement. His commitment to sharing Alabama’s legacy is evident in his engaging tours and dedication to educating every visitor.