The First Annual “Judge James E. Horton Day of Courage” Will be Held on June 22

The public is invited to the First Annual "Judge James E. Horton Day of Courage" on Saturday, June 22, 2024, from 12 to 1:00 p.m. at the Morgan County Archives, located at 624 Bank St NE in Decatur.

The program will will recognize Judge James E. Horton, who, on June 22, 1933, overturned Haywood Patterson’s second death sentence. Patterson was one of the nine Scottsboro Boys who were falsely accused, convicted and eight were sentenced to death. This act ultimately ended Judge Horton's judicial career

Retired Morgan County Circuit Judge Glenn E. Thompson will deliver the keynote address. After the program, attendees will have the opportunity to view the Scottsboro Boys exhibit and other related artifacts. A rendering of the Judge James E. Horton Legal Center will also be unveiled. The Decatur Scottsboro Boys Civil Rights Museum Board is sponsoring this event.