Reviewed by: Lacey Muenstermann
Huntsville stories preserved in the Library of Congress thanks to StoryCorps—1 day left to tell yours
Reading time: 4 minutes
We know all to well the value of telling and preserving individual stories, and that’s just what StoryCorp is doing, too.
If you’ve visited Lowe Mill in the last month, you probably spotted this unassuming Airstream parked in front of the dock.
Get the details here on this nationwide oral history project, including how StoryCorps found themselves at Lowe Mill. Plus, don’t miss your chance to record your story tomorrow!
About StoryCorps: an oral history project 20+ years in the making
About StoryCorps: StoryCorps is a nationwide initiative to preserve everyday people’s stories through recorded interviews. The StoryCorps Airstream travels across the country to compile a variety of unique experiences and voices.
How it works: After scheduling an appointment, two partnered individuals record a meaningful discussion about their lives’ stories, learnings and desired legacies. A trained guide facilitates the interview that can now be passed on for generations.
Fun fact: Recordings are archived (with permission) at American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress, making up the largest single collection of human voices ever gathered.
The purpose: Founded in 2003, StoryCorps’s goal is to encapsulate the rich and diverse American experience and foster community and connection.
“StoryCorps tells an authentic American story—that we are a people defined by small acts of courage, kindness and heroism. Each interview reminds people that their lives matter and will not be forgotten.”
“[After] the pandemic, the value of preserving these stories, and of strengthening connections between people who may [have] felt physically isolated, is more important than ever.”
Dave Isay, founder of StoryCorps and award-winning documentary producer and MacArthur Fellow
Keep up with StoryCorps:
Choosing Lowe Mill as Huntsville’s tour location
StoryCorps will be at Lowe Mill for just a few more days. (Elizabeth Hobbs / Hville Blast)
Throughout StoryCorp’s mobile tour, their team thoughtfully selects exactly where to park the van in each city.
They also partner with local radio stations; in Huntsville’s case, they’ve partnered with NPR affiliate WLRH/89.3 FM. The local radio network lends its voice to air select recording experts through weekly broadcasts, stories, social posts and more.
In an interview with Site Manager Ian Murakami, WLRH/89.3 FM reveals why Lowe Mill was selected as the lucky spot:
- It’s “one of the most interesting sites” StoryCorps has ever visited
- It’s a big community hub for artists + creatives
- It’s a recognizable part of the community
- There’s plenty of foot traffic
- The location is accessible + spacious with plenty of parking
- The received kind support from the staff
The StoryCorps team has been gathering local interviews during their Lowe Mill stay from February 13 to March 14.
Other spots on the 2025 StoryCorps nationwide tour:
- Selma, AL
- Lexington, KY
- Saint George, UT
- Kalispell, MT
- Sioux Falls, SD
- Jackson, WY
- Tucson, AZ
- Monterey Bay, CA
- Dallas-Fort Worth, TX
1 day left to record your story
Over 100,000 people have shared anecdotes of all kinds with StoryCorps, from historical recollections to personal experiences. If your curiosity is piqued, check out other Alabama residents’ recordings.
“The return of StoryCorps presents a wonderful opportunity for the residents of the Tennessee Valley to shine a light on the area’s rich history and the fascinating characters that make this such an interesting place to live.”
Ginny Kennedy, WLRH/89.3 FM Assistant General Manager
If you want to participate, there is just one day left to sign up (tomorrow, March 8)! Only a handful of slots are still available.
Saying farewell with a listening party on March 11
Tangled Strings will host a listening party on March 11 from 6-8PM. (Elizabeth Hobbs / Hville Blast)
Before StoryCorps gets back on the road, they will host a live listening event at Tangled Strings Studio to highlight some of the unique voices captured in Huntsville. Tickets are sold out, but be on the lookout for the published interviews!
Want more info and updates on what’s happening in and around Huntsville? Follow us on Facebook, TikTok and Instagram, and be sure to subscribe to our newsletter.
