Vulcan Park Events
Education
Š 2004 Robert Lagerstrom
Would you like to know the story of Vulcan, its symbolism, history and significance? Learn more...
Vulcan Park
Vulcan Park's 10-acre urban green space is filled with interesting history lessons!
Outdoor trail markers focus on Birmingham's history, geology and natural environment. Park visitors can walk on the large-scale ground map of the region and visually understand the location of minerals necessary for the production of iron. Adjacent to the map is a large 3D display illustrating a cross-section of the rock layers of Red Mountain and an explanation of the origin of iron, coal, and limestone. Outdoor exhibits also inform visitors of the Lone Pine Mine and Birmingham Mineral Railroad. A trip to Vulcan Tower observation balcony features spectacular panoramic views including other historical sites.
Vulcan Center
Vulcan Center is the centerpiece of Vulcan Park's educational mission and tells the story of Birmingham's past, present, and promise for the future. Upon entering Vulcan Center, visitors see a floor-to-ceiling wall of iron products, past and present. Reminiscent of a Louise Nevelson sculpture, the Wall of Industry is a monochromatic assemblage of objects made in Birmingham that represent the reason the city was founded and flourished. Vulcan Center visitors find capsules of Birmingham's history as well as information on life in Birmingham today through interactive exhibits.
Vulcan Center is also home to the Linn-Henley Gallery. The Linn-Henley gallery allows another opportunity for visitors to appreciate the variety and abundance of area resources, both human and natural, through periodically changing exhibits. Entrance included with admission to Vulcan Center.
School Tours
Š 2004 Robert Lagerstrom
Thanks to the generous support of The Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham, Vulcan Park is a great place for educational activities and field trips and should be student's initial gateway to learning our region's history. Educational tours can be either docent-led or self-guided tours.
Interested in learning about Vulcan Park but cannot schedule a school tour?
Access fun activities such as Scavenger Hunt, Vulcan Word Scramble or Vulcan Math here!
Non-School Groups
Vulcan Park also welcomes non-school groups. Vulcan Center exhibits are designed to be interactive and self-guided for adults, so docent-led tours are not available for adult groups.
Groups of 10 or more receive $1 off admission price with advanced reservation and when making one payment. Contact 205-933-1409 ext. 27 for group reservations (required in advance).
Workshops
Teacher Workshop
Hosted by Vulcan Park Foundation and Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark
Saturday, September 16 9:00 am - 2 pm
$20 (includes lunch & iron pour )
Please join us for the second annual Vulcan Park Teacher Workshop. Learn more about the geologic history of Red Mountain and the connection of iron, coal and limestone to the growth of Birmingham.
Keynote Speaker: Dr. Scott Brande, UAB
* Tour of Vulcan Park & Sloss Furnaces
* Create your own cast iron object
* Informational packets will include attendance certificates
Register for Teacher Workshop TODAY.
Downtown Walking Tour
Saturday, October 7
Additional info TBA.
Children's Printmaking Workshop
Saturday, November 4
Additional info TBA.
Lectures
Sunday, September 24 at 2:00 pm
"Sloss Furnaces: The Evolution of Birminghams Iron Plantation"
Karen Utz, Curator at Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark
VULCAN TALKS! Lecture Series
Vulcan Park hosts lectures to share with all Birmingham's magical past, dynamic present, and promise for the future. Check back often for information about upcoming lecture series.
Become a Docent
Did you follow the restoration of Vulcan?
Are you proud of Vulcan and what he represents as a symbol of Birmingham?
Are you interested in history and sharing the knowledge with others?
The Vulcan Park Foundation docent program seeks applications for new docents. Docents volunteer their time to be a museum teacher. They share knowledge in a lively and entertaining manner with park visitors.
Docent training includes the history of Vulcan and Birmingham as well as touring technique tips! No previous teaching experience required - just a love of learning and a sincere interest in history. TRAINING IS PROVIDED.
For further information on docents, please contact Barbara Kelley at 205-933-1409 ext. 26.