Burwell Dinkins Historic Home

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About

A two-story frame Craftsman-style residence, with hipped asphalt shingle bracketed roof and yellow brick foundation. First built c. 1889 by Dr. Lincoln L. Burwell and significantly expanded c. 1909.

The home has historical and architectural integrity to its period of significance and meets the registration requirements of the Civil Rights Movement in Selma, Alabama, 1865-1972 Multiple Property Nomination.

“Curare Cito” Motto of Dr. Lincoln Laconia Burwell Circa 1890

"Curare, cito, tuto, et jucunde"

To cure quickly, safely, and pleasantly.

Lincoln Laconia Burwell was born in rural Marengo County, Alabama, in 1867. He attended Selma University and then Leonard Medical School in North Carolina - graduating from both institutions as valedictorian. In 1890 Dr. Burwell returned to Alabama. He first started a medical practice in Selma, and built this house soon thereafter. Dr. Burwell used the parlor of the house as his office until he created the Burwell Infirmary.

The Dinkins Family

Almedia Burwell Dinkins and husband and Dr. William H. Dinkins moved into the home in 1928. Thus began the long, and still continuing, relationship between the Dinkins family and the property.

Dr. Dinkins was one of Alabama’s most distinguished African American educators and was considered an important community leader throughout the middle decades of the twentieth century.

His sister, Ethel Dinkins, was a gifted musician and taught students, including Coretta Scott (later King), at the piano in the home.