Learning Lunch

Of all the History Museum’s programs, Learning Lunch affords me the most consistent opportunity to remove myself from a busy work week, and learn something new about the city I call my home….”

Pat Hand, Owner of MH3 Printing

This series allows guests to enjoy free presentations on a wide range of historical and cultural topics. Admission to Learning Lunch is free. Bring your lunch and enjoy complimentary beverages.

Each program begins at noon.

For more information about the Learning Lunch programs, contact Jennifer Theeck, Curator of Education at: 251-301-0270 or theeckj@historymuseumofmobile.com

2025 Learning Lunch Speakers & Topics


January 8

Race and Masculinity in William Johnson’s Natchez

Dr. Timothy Buckner, Associate Professor of History at Troy University 


February 12

Where Floats Come From with a musical performance from the legendary Excelsior Band

Steve Joynt, Journalist and Editor of Mobile Mask Magazine 


March 12

Finding Lafayette's Footsteps in Mobile....and the Rest of the State

Dr. Lawrence Krumenaker, Author


April 9

Mobile and Havana: Sisters Across the Gulf

John Sledge, Author and Architectural Historian


May 14

The Alabama 167th Rides the Rainbow

David Preston, Author and Journalist


June 11

This Southern Metropolis: Life in Antebellum Mobile

Mike Bunn, Author and Director of Blakeley State Park


July 9

Southern Footprints: Exploring Gulf Coast Archaeology

Dr. Gregory Waselkov, Emeritus Professor of Anthropology, and Dr. Phillip Carr, Professor of Anthropology and Director of the University of South Alabama Archaeology Museum


August 13

Alabama Cemeteries and Symbols

Mollie Smith Waters, English, Speech, and Language Instructor at Lurleen B. Wallace Community College


September 10

The Shipwreck and Excavation of La Belle, a 17th-Century French Attempt to Colonize the New World

Dr. Amy Mitchell-Cook, Professor of History at the University of West Florida


October 8

Southern Accents

Dr. Anna Head Spence, Dean of Instruction at Enterprise State Community College


November 12

Mapping the Black Town: Perspectives on the Evolution of African American Communities

Justin Rudder, Digital Asset Archivist at the Alabama Department of Archives & History


December 10

Topic TBD

Dr. Kern Jackson, Associate Professor and Director of the African American Studies Program at University of South Alabama


Dates and topics are subject to change. Guests must pay admission to visit the museum's galleries before or after the Learning Lunch program. Call (251) 301-0270 for more information.