Seven Cullman County attractions have been chosen for the Alabama Bicentennial PastPort project as the state gears up to celebrate it’s 200th birthday next year.

The seven attractions highlighted in the campaign are Ave Maria Grotto, Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament, Weiss Cottage, Crooked Creek Civil War Museum, Cullman County Museum, Echota Cherokee Tribe of Alabama and Clarkson Covered Bridge and Park.

Designed as a guide to Alabama’s historic destinations, the Alabama Bicentennial PastPort is a passport to the past with the goal of encouraging people of all ages to explore every corner of the state. The guide features destinations—including historic sites, museums, and landmarks—in each of Alabama’s 67 counties combined with historical information and beautifully designed original artwork by the Birmingham-based firm Tatum Design.

“Alabama Bicentennial PastPort provides an opportunity for everyone to explore and experience some of North Alabama’s destinations that helped form our rich history,” said Tami Reist, AMLA President/CEO and a member of the Alabama Bicentennial Commission.

“Each of the locations on the PastPort has a compelling story to tell and will serve as a great guide for exploring the state not only during the Bicentennial year, but for years to come.”

The Alabama Bicentennial PastPort Project campaign officially kicked off in February and will be active through December 2019.

The PastPort is available in two forms:

An engaging, 174-page printed PastPort featuring more than 300 places across Alabama. Travelers can have their PastPort stamped at select sites in each of Alabama’s 67 counties. PastPorts are just $10 each and are available at welcome centers, the Alabama Department of Archives and History, various commercial outlets and online at shopalabama200.com.

A free, interactive mobile app with links to the online Encyclopedia of Alabama and content provided by Alabama NewsCenter. The app, which is supported by Verizon, ensures that anyone, anywhere can make a virtual visit to the state’s historic places.

PastPorts are also available as a download to all Alabama teachers and students. Thanks to Airbus’s support, Alabama Master Teacher Lesa Roberts of Huntsville has created a teachers’ guide that includes activities and applications for all grades, along with links to the state course of study.

“The bicentennial of Alabama is a once-in-a-lifetime moment and it demands a project that can make a lifetime of difference,” said Sen. Arthur Orr, chair of the Alabama Bicentennial Commission.

“These unique opportunities will inspire a younger generation to learn about the great treasures of Alabama, while fostering education in a stimulating and exciting way.”

For more information about the project and to learn more about plans and projects that help commemorate the state’s bicentennial, visit ALABAMA200.org or call 334-242-4537.

For more information on the attractions in Cullman County, contact Jesse Newsom with the Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center at 256-734-0454.