Reviewed by: Brenna McIntosh
New marker pays tribute to early Black business owners in Huntsville
Reading time: 2 minutes
Last Friday, February 28, Huntsville city leaders unveiled an exciting historic marker on courthouse square to honor two of the city’s earliest Black business owners.
Keep reading to learn more about this inspiring family.
The Brandon family’s legacy
Downtown Huntsville’s latest marker honors, father and son duo, Henderson and Daniel Brandon.
In the late 19th century, Henderson and Daniel Brandon established Huntsville’s leading Black-owned business, a masonry called Henderson Brandon & Son.
From 1887 to 1921, the masonry constructed more than 14 buildings across North Alabama, including the Huntsville staple Harrison Brothers Hardware.
The updated marker serves as a symbol of recognition for the Brandon and Harrison families’ important role in Huntsville’s history.
Historic Huntsville Foundation
Since 1984, the Huntsville Historic Foundation has worked hard to help preserve the Harrison Brothers Hardware store.
The updated marker detailed the interconnected history between the Harrison brothers and the Brandon father-and-son duo. Ollye Conley, who helps document Black community history, first discovered the connection between the Harrison brothers and Henderson and Daniel Brandon.
“It’s crucial for us to honor the contributions of individuals like Henderson and Daniel Brandon, whose legacies still influence our community today. Their voices reflect the diverse experiences and enduring spirit that makes Huntsville a special place.”
Tommy Battle, Huntsville Mayor
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