Albany Civil Rights Institute: Visit the City Where King Failed—and Freedom Sang

Most civil rights memorials celebrate victories. Albany, Georgia is different.

Unlike Montgomery or Greensboro, there was no triumph here. As visitors learn at the Albany Civil Rights Institute, this is the city where Martin Luther King Jr. lost. He couldn’t even manage to stay in jail. But his failure in 1961 to integrate this southwest Georgia city played a crucial role in the progress of the Civil Rights Movement.

King learned from his mistakes and honed his protest strategies.

It’s also the city where the Civil Rights struggle literally found its voice. This is where a group of female performers, The Freedom Singers, was formed. One of the original members leads a stirring monthly concert of protest songs that will literally have you on your feet vowing that “We Shall Overcome.” (Watch a video clip below.)`

For visitors today it all centers on an innovative museum and research center. Albany isn’t on major highways and is several hours from other cities, but it’s a worthwhile detour for civil rights travelers — an easy addition for those following the familiar Atlanta to Montgomery itinerary.

It’s also just 40 miles from Plains, Georgia, President Jimmy Carter’s hometown. The former President still leads Sunday school lessons here, and it’s an unforgettable experience to see him. As he ages, classes are less frequent, but look for info here.

Plan your visit for the second Saturday of the month when Rutha Mae Harris leads The Freedom Singers in a concert that’s free with admission to the excellent Albany Civil Rights Institute. The singing group was founded in 1961 to publicize and inspire protesters. It also helped raise money for the underfunded Civil Rights Movement with benefit concerts around the country.

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