200 S. Church Street
Henning, Tennessee
731-738-2240

Alexander Haley (1921 - 1992) was an American writer best known as the author of Roots: The Saga of an American Family. Haley was born in Ithaca, New York moved to Tennessee as an infant and lived with his family in Henning. He returned to Ithaca with his family when he was five years old. While in Tennessee, Haley stayed at the home of his grandparents, Will and Cynthia Palmer. Known as the Palmer Home, Haley’s boyhood home was built in 1919 by Will and has been restored and opened as a museum in 1986. As a child, it was on the porch of this house that Haley heard from his maternal grandmother, the family stories that inspired him to write "Roots." This 1976 Pulitzer Prize winning novel has been translated into over 30 languages and has had agreat influence in stimulating the study of genealogy. In 1977, Roots was adapted for an eight-part television series, which became one of the most popular programs in television history.

The Alex Haley Home has been furnished to represent the home as it was when Haley lived here. Some of the furniture which decorates the home belonged to the Haley family. As a Museum featuring Haley’s work the site features childhood memorabilia and references to the people who inspired his characters in Roots. Visitors can view the memorabilia and family artifacts that remain showcased. Alex Haley’s gravesite is located on the front lawn of the home.

Also located on the grounds behind the boyhood home is the Alex Haley Interpretive Center. Opened in 2010, this 6,500 square foot this award winning center features a walk-through exhibit, a theater room where visitors can view a documentary, a genealogy room, and the gift shop. The walk-through exhibit features several items from Alex Haley’s life including, his family tree written by him, his mother’s wedding dress, a full size replica of a slave ship, and his director’s chair from the set of “Roots.”

Visiting the Alex Haley Museum and Interpretive Center
Hours: Tuesday - Saturday: 10 am - 5 pm
Sunday: By appointment only
Admission charged.