Wells Fargo unveiled a new mural today in downtown Birmingham to commemorate the anniversary of the Freedom Rides.

Catherine Burks-Brooks, an original Freedom Rider, joined community leaders and Wells Fargo to unveil the new mural which recognizes the historic event that occurred at the site of the Wells Fargo’s Motor Tower branch (1901 6th Ave. North, 35203).

Site of the Trailways Depot

Well Fargo — Unveiling of the new Wells Fargo Branch Freedom Riders Mural on May 4, 2022. (Pat Byington/Bham Now)

Stationed at the historic site of the Trailways bus depot, the Wells Fargo branch is the former site of the Trailways Depot. On May 14, 1961, Freedom Riders, a group of civil rights activists who traveled across the southern United States challenging segregation in bus terminals, restrooms, and restaurants were met by a mob and violently attacked. The mural design pays tribute to the courage of the Freedom Riders, who non-violently fought injustice that day in downtown Birmingham.

“It’s good to know that the city is acknowledging its past. It also shows that there’s been great changes since that time and I applaud it. I’ve learned that people change and cities change. I think the city should pat itself on the back, because I think they have made a tremendous turn for the right. I think history will look kindly upon the Birmingham that we see today.” ~ Charles Person, a Freedom Rider, who was beaten at the Trailways Depot on May 14, 1961 – which is now the site of the Wells Fargo Branch and new mural.

The mural is the 2nd Wells Fargo panorama in the Magic City honoring the Civil Rights Movement. The first one is located at the UAB Wells Fargo Branch at 316 18th Avenue South, 35233.

Birmingham — Wells Fargo on 3rd Avenue South (Bham Now)

Freedom Riders

Photos of Freedom Riders, Burks-Brooks, Person and Hank Thomas as college students who left their campuses to join this campaign for equality are featured in the mural.