Mrs.Tuggle was a person of unique strengths.She excelled in the areas of educational,social work,and relgion.
As a citizen of Birmingham,she worked with boys facing challenges and as a welfare officer often appeared in court in their behalf.Following one appearance in behalf of a ten year old boy,Mrs.Tuggle conceived the idea of providing housing facilities for orphaned African American children.At first,children were taken into her home.After a a great struggle and continuous effort to raise funds for this project,she and her supporters opened a one-building school and residence for homeless African American boys on September 3,1903.As a result of inspiration from the same courtroom experience,Mrs.Tuggle was instrumental in the formation of the Jefferson County Juvenile and Domestic Court.
From its beginning,the orphanage and school rapidly grew.The children called Mrs.Tuggle "Granny" and adults called her "Old Lady Tuggle" with both terms used affectionately.Tuggle institute won high regard among the citizens of Birmingham.It contributed substanantially to the advancement of African American people.Many outstanding Birmingham citizens graduated from this Institute.including Dr.A.G. Gatson,John T.Whatley,and Ersking Hawkins.
In 1926,Tuggle Institute became affiliated with the Birmingham Public Schools in 1934,the City Board of Education purchased the Institute and named it Enon Ridge School. In 1936,the name was changed to Tuggle Elementary School by the Board of Education.Inscribed on the memorial plaque are the words: "Carrie A.Tuggle, a scholar,educator and servant of mankind."
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