“Decoding Diaspora” is a hands-on, multimedia exploration into the stories we tell about the places where we find ourselves. At the Gorgas House Museum from February 3-28, 2026, this exhibit will showcase a rare early-to mid-20^th century collection of Joel Augustus Rogers’ Facts About the Negro. Through this, Dr. Richard Newton displays how Religious Studies scholars are using digital tools and social theory to enhance our understanding of identity.

Follow his student research team as they investigate his family’s mysterious scrapbook, the myths of a once-influential writer, and a mythic history of our fractured world. Featuring GIS, a digital timeline, text visualization, sonic archivism, and 3-D printed artifact reproductions, come learn about why–for some peoples– the past isn’t past.

This exhibit and connected symposiums are in collaboration with The University of Alabama’s Barefield College of Arts & Sciences, Department of Religious Studies, REL Digital Lab, Research & Economic Development, and University Libraries.
 

Admission

General admission is $2.00. Admission is free for current University of Alabama faculty, staff, students, and members of University of Alabama Museums, the Bryant Museum Circle of Champions, and the University Alumni Association.
 

Museum Hours

The Gorgas House Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. or by appointment by calling 205-348-5906 or emailing gorgashouse@ua.edu.