The Alex Haley State House Museum, located just 35 miles north of Memphis, is the birthplace of "Roots" and has been restored to model the home as it was when Alex Haley was born. This famous storytellers childhood home is the first state-owned historic site devoted to African-Americans in Tennessee. It was built in the years 1918 to 1921 by Alex Haley's grandfather, and it's been decorated with early 20th century furniture, some of it actually belonging to the Haley family. Alex Haley sat on the front porch of this home as a small child, and listened to many stories his family would tell about his ancestors. On this front porch was where he first heard about Kunte Kinte and Queenie.
Alex Haley was known for more than just "Roots", however. Early in his career he conducted an interview with Malcolm X, and then wrote his first book "The Autobiography of Malcolm X". "Roots" being his most famed work, there are still celebrations held in his honor. Each year there is an event called Kunta Kinte Heritage Festival that takes place in Maryland. The Alex Haley State House Museum is educational, interesting, and is the pride of Henning, Tennessee.
