The 42nd annual Historic Selma Pilgrimage, presented March 17-18 by the Selma-Dallas County Historical Preservation Society and the City of Selma, will showcase home and building architecture, art, an in-depth investigation of Selma’s pivotal role in the American Civil War and the Civil Rights Movement combined with Southern hospitality beyond compare.

Thirteen home and building structures, spanning almost two centuries of architectural genius highlight the highly anticipated two-day extravaganza.

Eight local homeowners will graciously open their front doors to patrons from across the United States, enlightening all about their unique treasures, fascinating family stories and colorful folklore.

The 1840 Gillis House and 1843 Riggs-Morgan-Boyd offer old-fashion cottage allure while the 1895 Colonial Revival Hunter-Coffee-Tipmore House showcases beautifully restored Eastlake-style oak woodwork.

Interestingly, Hollywood acclaimed actress, Jessica Lange, nestled in the cozy Church Street Portis-Hubbard House during the Selma filming of her 1994 Academy Award Best Actress performance in Blue Sky.

Connecticut farmhouse coupled with Southern manor, Hill View House, is a lovely 20th century home with British cultural charm while overlooking pristine architectural landscape.

Another event, Friday evening offers an entertaining wine and cheese gathering at the Neo-Classical Revival 1913 Hain-Harrelson House, nestled along Highway 41 in the quaint Sardis community.

The ever popular pre-Civil War Kenan’s Mill and Sturdivant Hall allow an enchanted escape from our digital world obsession.

Meanwhile, historical aficionados will delight in the thoughtful historical exhibits touring the Old Depot, the newly-expanded Selma Interpretive Center and Vaughan-Smitherman museums.

The Selma Art Guild extends a hearty welcome to art lovers for a special exhibition that mixes visual arts with literary arts and music.

A welcomed addition is the Arsenal Place Accelerator, a pocket-sized entrepreneurial incubator whose objective is to translate into deep-pockets for creative business initiatives.

Finally, the jam-packed celebration attracts a host of gifted artists, The Alabama Plein Air Artists and their charming productions that patrons may purchase before the Pilgrimage concludes on Saturday afternoon.

Call (334) 412-8550 for ticket information. Various prices are available for different tours.