Eufala held its annual pilgrimage. The event brings thousands into the town to enjoy historic homes and enjoy entertainment. [CG:1_LWR3RD\:11\Paula McKee\Chairperson Eufaula Pilgrimage\\\\]
[CG:1_LWR3RD\:33\Jason Hall\Co-Chmn Shorter Mansion\\\\]
[CG:1_LWR3RD\:55\Jessica Robbins\Pilgrimage Volunteer\\\\]
[CG:1_LWR3RD\1:00\Haley Ates\Pilgrimage Volunteer\\\\]

A look back in time. That's what many Eufaula residents and visitors to the area got a glimpse at Sunday during the annual Eufaula Pilgrimage.

Chairperson of the event Paula McKee said, "you have older homes, architecture, gardens open. it's looking at the beauty God gave us."

This beauty prompted thousands of people to visit Eufaula, something that could have long-term, positive effects on the community.

Co -Chairman of the event Jason Hall said, "its important we bring a lot of people to community."

Most people come to the pilgrimage to relax and enjoy the entertainment, however there are a lot of volunteers standing by to teach the community about their rich heritage.

Volunteer Jessica Robbins said, "you learn a lot about houses in Eufaula." Another volunteer Haley Ates said, "I recently moved here to Eufaula and I would like to know more and its great to be a part of it."

The annual pilgrimage requires the help of thousands of volunteers from the area, something McKee says is surprisingly not such a difficult task, "most people in Eufaula have a sense of community and they graciously give time and effort."

The pilgrimage is the oldest tour of homes in Alabama, and event organizers say people enjoy it so much because it allows them to reconnect with their heritage.

Hall said, "they come cause they enjoy seeing how poeple lived in a simpler time."

Most of the homes on tour are actual residencies, but two are now museums and are open everyday for tours and special events.

This was the 41st annual Eufaula Pilgrimage. The event is so well-known that people come from Canada and China to attend.