Every year, the Board recognizes individuals in the community that go above and beyond spreading the love of history. In 2025, we chose a historian that has proven many times over that they are dedicated to the proliferation of Huntsville history. Join us at the Fall meeting to present the award to: Stephanie Timberlake
Stephanie Timberlake
Pictured leading a tour at Burritt on the Mountain
Nominated by Daniel Rhodes
As a life-long resident of Huntsville, I have strong ties to our community. I graduated from Huntsville High School and went to Presbyterian College in South Carolina where I studied Art and History. I received a graduate degree in Historic Preservation from Savannah College of Design (with a focus on architecture).
I returned to Huntsville and became involved with several organizations, including Historic Huntsville Foundation and began working at Burritt on the Mountain. I started in 1999 in the Curatorial Department as Registrar and today serve as Chief Operations Officer and Curator. I oversee all work that is contract on our 11 historic homes and structures on site as well as the other 11 non-historic buildings and structures that are part of Burritt’s grounds. I joined the Huntsville Pilgrimage Association Board in 2017 and have enjoyed working on the annual Cemetery Stoll.
My work at Burritt is where I truly developed my love for Huntsville’s past and all things Huntsville. I have created some wonderful exhibits about Huntsville including the Monte Sano Hotel, The Huntsville Arsenals and the German teams that came to Huntsville, and Huntsville’s own history. Each of these has fueled a fire in me to learn all I can about our city’s history and preserve it for the future historians and preservationist.
The Ranee Pruitt award recognizes individuals who have significantly enriched the community’s understanding of its local history through research, documentation, or public education. Nominees often include amateur historians, archivists, or long-time residents whose dedicated efforts have brought forgotten stories to light or meticulously preserved historical records. This accolade celebrates the vital role these individuals play in connecting present and future generations to the unique heritage of their town or region.