Swift-Coles House
a.k.a. Swift House; The Big House
1 Swift Coles Ln., Bon Secour, ALThe Swift-Coles historic house is a exemplary extant example of an early 20th century Gulf Coast inspired residence which has been transitioned into a public house museum. The architectural and timber building tradition of Gulf Coast residences is evidenced by the three significant periods of construction, ranging from 1882 to 1910. The residence began as a simple four-room dogtrot cabin in 1882 and was expanded in 1902 and again in 1910 to meet the residential and climatic conditions of a residence on the Alabama Gulf Coast. The interior arrangement allowing for a cross-breeze and three exte1ior double galleries indicate a strong relationship between the
functions of the built environment and realities of the comfort and climate before the installation of electricity. Exterior architectural detailing reflects a coastal combination of detailing influenced by Gulf Coast and localized vernacular arrangements, differentiating the residence from the Greek Revival, Classical Revival, and Italianate plantation residences of the period in the upstate portions of Alabama. Having survived a century of hurricanes and the aggressive population expansion and c01mnercial/residential development of Baldwin County in the 21 st
century, the residence stands as an icon representative of the architectural history of Bon Secour and south Baldwin County during the period of American settlement.
Local significance of the building:
functions of the built environment and realities of the comfort and climate before the installation of electricity. Exterior architectural detailing reflects a coastal combination of detailing influenced by Gulf Coast and localized vernacular arrangements, differentiating the residence from the Greek Revival, Classical Revival, and Italianate plantation residences of the period in the upstate portions of Alabama. Having survived a century of hurricanes and the aggressive population expansion and c01mnercial/residential development of Baldwin County in the 21 st
century, the residence stands as an icon representative of the architectural history of Bon Secour and south Baldwin County during the period of American settlement.
Architecture
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2016.
About National Register Listings
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
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The first European settlement in Alabama was established in 1702 by the French at Fort Louis de la Mobile, which is now the city of Mobile. It was named after Louis XIV of France and was the capital of French Louisiana until 1711.
About Baldwin County
Baldwin County Timeline
Baldwin County, AL, located on the Gulf Coast, has a rich and diverse history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, such as the Creek, Choctaw, and Chickasaw, who relied on the abundant natural resources of the region for their livelihoods.
In the 16th century, Spanish explorers arrived in the area and claimed it as part of their territory. They established settlements and missions, but their presence was short-lived as the French, British, and eventually the United States asserted control over the region. The county is named after Abraham Baldwin, a delegate from Georgia who signed the U.S. Constitution.
During the 19th century, Baldwin County became an important hub for shipping and commerce due to its strategic location and access to waterways. The towns of Daphne, Fairhope, and Bay Minette thrived as trading centers, attracting settlers from various backgrounds and cultures. The county also played a significant role in the Civil War, with some areas supporting the Confederacy and others remaining Unionist.
In the early 20th century, Baldwin County experienced a period of economic growth and development. The discovery of oil and natural gas reserves in the region brought new opportunities, and agriculture, particularly the growth of timber and citrus, continued to be important industries. The county also became a popular tourist destination, known for its pristine beaches and charming towns.
Today, Baldwin County remains a vibrant and growing community. It is one of the fastest-growing counties in Alabama, experiencing a boom in residential and commercial development. The county's rich history and natural beauty continue to attract visitors and residents alike, making it a desirable place to live, work, and play.
In the 16th century, Spanish explorers arrived in the area and claimed it as part of their territory. They established settlements and missions, but their presence was short-lived as the French, British, and eventually the United States asserted control over the region. The county is named after Abraham Baldwin, a delegate from Georgia who signed the U.S. Constitution.
During the 19th century, Baldwin County became an important hub for shipping and commerce due to its strategic location and access to waterways. The towns of Daphne, Fairhope, and Bay Minette thrived as trading centers, attracting settlers from various backgrounds and cultures. The county also played a significant role in the Civil War, with some areas supporting the Confederacy and others remaining Unionist.
In the early 20th century, Baldwin County experienced a period of economic growth and development. The discovery of oil and natural gas reserves in the region brought new opportunities, and agriculture, particularly the growth of timber and citrus, continued to be important industries. The county also became a popular tourist destination, known for its pristine beaches and charming towns.
Today, Baldwin County remains a vibrant and growing community. It is one of the fastest-growing counties in Alabama, experiencing a boom in residential and commercial development. The county's rich history and natural beauty continue to attract visitors and residents alike, making it a desirable place to live, work, and play.
Baldwin County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Baldwin County, Alabama.
- 1800 - Baldwin County was established on December 21.
- 1809 - The county seat was established in Blakeley.
- 1868 - The county seat was moved to Daphne.
- 1901 - The county seat was moved to Bay Minette.
- 1907 - The first Baldwin County Courthouse was built in Bay Minette.
- 2005 - Hurricane Katrina caused significant damage in the county.
- 2010 - The population of Baldwin County exceeded 180,000 residents.