His story in brief
Found dead on the farm where he and his wife rented land, Willie McDaniel had been in a confrontation with his landlord the day before. What happened next?
His story in detail
A never-before-told narrative that challenges the reporting of the day, offers context about his death and its investigation — and reveals another killing that haunted the community.
Spoken word
This piece by Hannah Hasan, commissioned by the Remembrance Project, imagines Willie McDaniel’s life before his death, and considers what came afterward.
Memorialization
The soil collection for Mr. McDaniel was held November 8, 2025 at Reedy Creek Park and Nature Preserve. The historical marker unveiling and dedication was held April 18, 2026. The historical marker is located at Reedy Creek Park and Nature Preserve near the Nature Center. The soil collection jar is located at EJI’s The Legacy Museum in Montgomery, Alabama.
AT TOP: Aerial photo of Reedy Creek Park and Nature Preserve, vicinity of Willie McDaniel’s death. / Loyd Visuals