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The newcomer arriving in the Baldwin County area need not be apprehensive over the move. Whether your destination is Daphne, Fairhope, Spanish Fort, Point Clear, Montrose, Malbis or Gulf Shores, you will feel right at home. The area is truly an enchanted region of the South; modern, but with the air of genteel hospitality which the Gulf Coast is noted for. The Baldwin County area is a clean wholesome environment where trees are planted in the mediums and it looks so clean that it is as if someone follows anyone around who would dare drop a piece of trash on the grass and retrieves it immediately. The "Ya'll Come", attitude is still ever present today in the 20th Century.
In harmony with nature and often referred to as "The best kept secret in the South", Baldwin County area offers it all, whether you're looking for a weekend getaway, a seasonal retreat or a primary residence. The Eastern Shore cities of Baldwin County are Daphne, with a approximate population around 26,000 people; Fairhope with approximately 15,000 people; Spanish Fort with approximately 12,000 people; and Point Clear with approximately 10,000 people.
The area's white sands and clear blue waters are unmatched anywhere along the U.S. coastline. Gulf Shores is a major vacation destination for many people all year around. Many people from the colder northern states migrate to Gulf Shores to spend the winter. Fairhope's downtown area with its art galleries, quaint shops and cafe's are a must visit. The city streets are lined with century old oak trees draped with Spanish moss. Sea oats grace the sand dunes, wildflowers abound, winter brings camellias in all their glory, and with spring the azaleas blanket the areas in striking beauty. Life moves along at a slower pace as young people and senior citizens enjoy life.
From graceful old mansions restored to their original Southern beauty and charm, to striking modern skyscrapers glistening with chrome and glass, Daphne, Fairhope, Spanish Fort and Point Clear all await.... all welcome you.... to the Baldwin County area.
LOCATION
Baldwin County is the largest county in Alabama and is almost completely surrounded by water. The western borders of Baldwin County are outlined by Mobile Bay and the River Delta System. The eastern border is Perdido River which borders the Florida state line. Little River lies to the north. The Gulf of Mexico forms the southern border.
U.S. 90, 92, and Interstate 10 access Baldwin County east and west. From the north, Interstate 65 from Montgomery leads to Highway 59 in Foley. Highway 59 runs the length of Baldwin County to the coast. Other major thoroughfares include state Highways 225, 104 and 182 and U.S. Highway 31.
POPULATION
The population of Baldwin County is approximately 156,701, with over 35% of the county's residents living in urban areas. Over 50% of the area population is between the ages of 18 and 64, about 30% under age 18, and about 20% ages 65 and older.
CLIMATE
"Blue skies & balmy breezes...." The Baldwin County area climate is an Eden for those who are tired of snow and winter's cold and who enjoy being outdoors year 'round. Influence by the Gulf of Mexico tends to temper both summer and winter extremes. The average temperature is 67.4 degrees.
Winters are normally mild with a January average temperature of 51.4 degrees with occasional chilly spells. Snow is extremely rare; the average annual snowfall is 0".
Summers are consistently warm with a July average temperature of 81.8 degrees. Along the Gulf Coast area, ocean breezes keep daylight highs a good 10 degrees below what most people expect. Although the average rainfall ranges from 63 to 70 inches per year, it is evenly distributed throughout the year and sunny skies prevail most of the time. Rain is usually the shower type with long periods of continuous rain being rare.
GOVERNMENT
Baldwin County is the largest county in Alabama comprised of twelve municipalities, each operated by the Mayor/Council or city manager and council form of government. Baldwin County is governed by a seven-member commission, elected by the county at large for four year terms, two every two years. Each commissioner must reside in the district he or she represents. The County Seat is located in Bay Minette. They have also established two satellite courthouses in addition to the County Seat. One is located in the southern part of the county in Foley and the other on the eastern shore in Fairhope.
IN SUMMARY
Baldwin County is an extremely livable environment. The southern location provides a pleasant climate year-round. The broad corporate and economic structures, evenly dispersed population, and effectively governed societies, are what make the Baldwin County area such a pleasant and rewarding place to live. |