Tulane-Simmons Historic House Repairs

We are kindly asking for donations to help us complete the repair to our beloved building.

    The National Parent Teacher Association (PTA) is the oldest and largest child advocacy association in America. Today’s PTA is comprised of more than 4 million parents, teachers, grandparents, caregivers, foster parents and other caring adults who share a commitment to improving the education, health, and safety of all children. We speak with one voice for every child.  Alabama PTA supports 230 units across the state compromised of more than 30,000 members.

    The Alabama PTA was chartered in 1911 under the laws of the state. In 1970, the Alabama Colored Congress of Parents and Teachers merged with the Alabama PTA. As a part of the National PTA, Alabama PTA extends the concept of a volunteer organization engaged in educating parents and teachers on issues affecting children and youth. It supports public education and the welfare of children.

    In December 1991, Alabama PTA purchased the Tulane-Simmons historical building in Montgomery to house the state office. The property at 470 South Union Street is the final home of Victor Tulane, who was a prominent, influential African American in Montgomery from the late 1800’s until his death in 1931. As a result of Mr. Tulane’s strong work ethics, wisdom and determination, he became highly successful in business, as well as an activist and generous donor of his time and money, he was the first black man to serve on the Montgomery Chamber of Commerce. Victor Hugh Tulane was an ambitious entrepreneur and businessman who built an empire that still stands today. When he was 15, Tulane walked from Wetumpka to Montgomery and got his first job as a porter in a saloon. After working there for a few months, he saved up enough money to buy a grocery store at the intersection of High Street and Ripley Street in downtown Montgomery. Besides being a grocery entrepreneur, at various times Mr. Tulane was cashier of the Black-owned Penny Savings Bank, a druggist, Chairman of the Board of Old Ship A.M.E. Zion Church, and on the Tuskegee Institute Board of Trustees.


    The Tulane Simmons House  is listed on the Montgomery City Historic Sites and the Alabama Register of Landmarks and Heritage. Alabama PTA is honored to be the caretaker of this historic landmark and is committed to the upkeep of this property.  As with all aging buildings, it has taken an enormous amount of funds to maintain the building.  Alabama PTA has spent over $60K in the last 3 years alone, replacing the roof, ac/heat unit and lifting up part of the building's foundation. The recent work also included rebuilding the dormer and chimneys, using original bricks,  after consulting the Historical Architectural Review Board.

    As a continued effort to maintain the building, Alabama PTA consulted with Ms. Hilda Dent of Old House Specialists, for the most pressing issues to be addressed for the integrity of the structure. Ms. Dent and her team of contractors strongly recommended window and front door refurbishment.  The front door(as seen in photo) and many of the windows are over 100 years old and original to the building.  Many areas are at risk for wood rot.  It is also recommended the 250 cornices be cleaned and repainted.

    Total cost of the job is estimated at $26,700. Alabama PTA was awarded a grant from the Alabama Historical Commission. Even with the grant funds, Ms Dent cutting her expenses to the least amount possible, and obligating $7K from Alabama PTA’s general fund, we are still short $5,000 to complete this project.

Any donation amount toward the care and integrity of this historic landmark would be so appreciated!

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Alabama PTA does not endorse any commercial product or service. Companies making a financial contribution to PTA may be entitled to promotional consideration and, in some cases, may have limited use of PTA’s marks and assets.