Strange Alabama- African Village

Since 1989, retired construction worker, Joe Minter has been building his own spiritual paradise and tribute to African-Americans. The African Village is located in Birmingham, Alabama

Minter says after being approached by God in 1988, he began gathering works of art from various places such as flea markets, thrift shops, and garage sales. Some of the pieces include car bumpers with bible verses painted on them and large letters from an old movie theater spelling out "His Word is Real."

Minter has become a prominent figure in the state of Alabama and loves to show people around his garden with the help of his "talking stick." He even wrote a book called "To You Through Me" that contains his philosophical and spiritual views on life. Visitors can purchase his novel for $27 and postcards for $3.

Minter's African Village is located at 931 Nassau Ave. SW in Birmingham, Alabama.