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For five decades, Linda Derry built Old Cahawba into one of the state’s best archaeological parks. As Old Cahawba site director, Derry made the place in Orrville a hot tourist spot in Dallas County.

On March 27, Derry retired after spending nearly 40 years at Old Cahawba and the Alabama Historical Commission. 

We are glad that she decided to take the job in 1985. 

“I was excavating some of America’s most significant historical sites, but once I heard Cahawba’s story, I was sold on the idea of moving to Selma, Alabama to take this job,” Derry said. “And my love for this special place and the people who have rallied around it has only grown over the years.”

We admired Derry’s ability to get contributions from local officials, businesses and individuals to support Old Cahawba,

What we find more special is Derry planning on returning on a part-time basis in July to undertake special projects, including the bicentennial celebration of Gen. Marquis de Lafayette’s return to America and Cahawba on April 5, 2025.

We appreciate what Derry did at Old Cahawba. Her legacy will never be forgotten.