“In the 1890s, a group of idealists founded Fairhope as a cooperative colony on a lush bluff along Alabama’s Gulf Coast. The visionary settlers thought their experimental village had a “fair hope” of success. An oasis of idealism and equality, Fairhope not only succeeded but grew into an elegant enclave of individualism and intellect. The bayside town is the world’s oldest and largest single-tax colony. The unique village drew progressives and populists, socialists, and Quakers, artists and intellectuals, and even nudists and free- love advocates. Many of the major social reformers of the early 20th century—from Dewey to Darrow—made pilgrimages to Fairhope. Strong individualists, fine minds, independent spirits, and colorful characters of all sorts came to inhabit the town founded on principle.” -- pulled from Images of America: Fairhope.
The town has a fascinating history indeed. I not only fell in love with the town itself but also its history. I want to find out more about it though, it has such an interesting story. I’ve only nipped the tip of the iceberg. I need to know more. The hub bought me my first book about Fairhope today and I can’t wait to get into it. It’s mostly a photographic “journey;” but to me, that’s a wonderful way to be introduced to a place--visually.
It’s a cute little town. Small shop windows are pretty and inviting, most have a cat or two inviting you in. (Gotta love that!) There are flowering planters everywhere and hanging baskets filled with geraniums on every street corner. Even the vintage post box is sweet. I remember these when I was growing up.
Since we were alone, we were even allowed to stop and have a cup of coffee and a slice of Key lime cake, which I had never had before. It was very tasty, of course. Yum, yum, yum.Fun, fun, fun.
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