Blog – The Alabama Tourist

June 16, 2023June 16, 2023

A Whirlwind Adventure of Ireland’s Gems: Dublin, Doolin, Killarney, Galway, and Waterford

Welcome to the Emerald Isle! It is a land of captivating landscapes, enchanting architecture, delicious food, rich history, and warm hospitality. As an American, driving on the left side of the road was a test of bravery and very challenging for me and my friend. It was a short, but sweet trip through each city that left me wanting more and I did not want to leave. Here are a few of the highlights of our trip.

Our adventure begins in Dublin, the capital city of Ireland. It is a cosmopolitan city where the past and present seamlessly blend. We wander the streets and marvel at the iconic St. Patrick’s Cathedral. It was said to have been built circa 1220-1259 AD upon top of an ancient well that was used by Saint Patrick himself. We were feeling a wee hungry and wanted to try the vinegar malt fish and chips at the famous Leo Burdogk. It is Dublin’s oldest chipper. The perfectly battered cod created a symphony of crunch and succulence. We also went into the old St. James Church transformed into a whiskey distillery called Pearse Lyons Distillery where you can buy some spirits or Holy Whiskey as I call it. Our night ended at the lively Devitt’s of Camden Street. It is a local pub that has nightly live music and mouthwatering cuisine. The aromas and flavors of the Irish Stew and Guinness sourdough bread became an irresistible culinary delight.

The next day we take off to the picturesque village of Doolin, nestled on the rugged west coast. We saw sheep and cows scattered on the hillsides while navigating the narrow roads. After our journey, we checked into a lovely B&B called Riverside cottage. Our gracious host, Ann, was extremely helpful with fun activities in the town. As the day ended, we found ourselves in a cozy pub, savoring pints of beer and cider and immersing ourselves in the melodies of traditional Irish music. The next day the magnificent Cliffs of Moher were beckoning us. So, despite the chilly winds we eagerly hiked to the breathtaking views of the cliffs and crashing waves. It was well worth the long, beautiful hike up.

Nature’s masterpiece unfolds before our eyes as we arrive in Killarney. The lush greenery of Killarney National Park invites us for a tour. We contacted Killarney Guided Walks and met our lovely guide, Richard. Richard grew up in Killarney and was very knowledgeable about the flora and fauna in the area. He showed us wild garlic and mints plants. Richard also took us to see the wild deer and the beautiful hillsides that surround the lakes. We were amazed at the stunning views of the park’s natural beauty. Richard is a great storyteller, and he will regale you with tales of local history. While in the park, we met the friendly owner of Murphy’s Pub, Sean Murphy. He invited us to his pub in Killarney. Murphy’s is a popular pub with live music that serves traditional Irish food and drinks. We had the best time enjoying the energetic atmosphere and the tasty cuisine.

We ventured further west to Galway, a beautiful city bursting with color and vibrant energy. The charming art adorning the buildings adds an artistic touch to the streets. Our guide showed us the famous Long Walk, made immortal in Ed Sheeran’s music video, “Galway Girl.” We also learned about the significance of the Claddagh ring and the city’s maritime heritage. The Claddagh ring is a traditional Irish ring which represents love, loyalty, and friendship. This city is home to many historic buildings and landmarks, including the Spanish Arch, St Nicholas Church, and the Galway Cathedral. We had the honor to worship at this Cathedral. It was a very special experience for us. Another stop we made was to the Latin Quarter. It called to us with its lively music and bustling shops. We admired the beauty of some of the shops with colorful flowers adorning the doors. They reflected Galway’s radiant spirit.

Our final destination takes us to Waterford, where centuries-old craftsmanship and Viking history intertwine. Waterford is the oldest city in Ireland. This city was founded by the Vikings in the 9^th century. We visited some of the historic sites, such as Reginald’s tower, Christ Church Cathedral, and Waterford Crystal. We marveled at the exquisite crystal creations on display and extravagant price tags. We ended our day at a local whiskey distillery and rounded out our explorations of Irish libations.

Our adventures through Doolin, Killarney, Galway and Waterford were nothing short of extraordinary. From the magnificent Cliffs of Moher to the lively pubs brimming with music and laughter, Ireland has captured our hearts and stomachs. Its stunning landscapes, rich history, friendly people, and delicious food make it a bucket list destination and one to experience. We are ready to go back and explore the rest of this beautiful country. It is my hope that you pack your sense of adventure and take off on your own Irish journey. You will not be disappointed!

If you have any questions on my trip, please feel free to reach out.

Pearse Lyons Distillery inside the former St. James Church, Dublin.

February 18, 2023February 18, 2023

Bamahenge, Dinosaurs, Lady in the Lake, Oh, My!

Several of the most unique and interesting roadside outdoor art attractions are located at Barber Marina in Elberta, Alabama. Billionaire, George Barber, owner of Barber Marina commissioned an artist to build these fiberglass structures. This impressive collection of oddities, created by artist Mark Cline, is a must-see for anyone traveling through the area.

Visiting Bamahenge is a truly unique experience. Bamahenge is a partial replica of the famous Stonehenge monument in England, but with a touch of Alabama flavor. This massive structure built in 2012, stands 21 feet tall and spans 104 feet across and is made from fiberglass pieces. The structure was painted to resemble the stones of the original Stonehenge, and the effect is nothing short of breathtaking. Mr. Cline consulted with astronomers to make sure Bamahenge would line up with midsummer solstice.

Another one of Mark Cline’s stunning and enigmatic sculpture is the Lady in the Lake. This artist’s work is known for his sense of whimsy and fun, and this beautiful fiber glass sculpture is no exception. This Lady is in the bay at Barber Marina surrounded by the pier and serene water. She looks like a lady relaxing in the bathtub with her knees above the water. Mr. Cline said that the fifty-foot Lady would be 108 feet if she stood up. That would be taller than the Statue of Liberty without her upraised arm.

What about the dinosaurs, you say? There are four hidden dinosaurs hidden in the woods: Tyrannosaurus Rex, Triceratops, Stegosaurus, and a Brontosaurus. The kids and adults will love this fun scavenger hunt to find them. But the artistry doesn’t stop there. In addition, there are a couple of knights hidden closer to the marina in the woods, a giant spider, among other sculptures scattered throughout. There is also a beautiful white Neptune fountain that one would see if they visited Italy.

Barber Marine is a must stop on your next family adventure. This location offers easy access to nearby attractions, such as Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, making it an ideal stop on any Gulf Coast road trip. I highly recommend to those interested in exploring this unique and fascinating world of outdoor art that it is worth the visit. These quirky sculptures will leave a lasting impression on all who see it. The marina is situated on the beautiful shores of Wolf Bay, and visitors can take in stunning views of the water while exploring the art. There is no charge to visit the sculptures and the Marina.

Directions to Barber Marina: Take US Highway 98 for 8 miles east of Foley, Al. Turn South onto County Road 95. After 5 miles turn right onto Fish Trap Road. After ½ mile turn left at the Barber Marina sign. Drive 1 mile and look to the right. Bamahenge is located about 100 yards away in the woods.

Address: 26986 Fish Trap Road, Elberta, AL 36530

December 18, 2021December 18, 2021

A Mysterious Island in Alabama? Welcome to the Town of Spectre!

Who knew there was a private islet called Jackson Lake Island outside of Montgomery in Millbrook, Alabama? Even better, this little piece of paradise contains the movie set from the “Town of Spectre”. This fictional town is from Tim Burton’s 2003 movie called “Big Fish”. It based on book with the same name by Birmingham native, Daniel Wallace. It was so surreal to walk the abandoned town from the film.

“Big Fish” is about reconciliation between the son, Will and his dying father, Edward. His father told very colorful and larger than life stories as fact. Will believed these stories his father told all his life to be lies which caused tension in their relationship. Will explores the veracity of his father’s outrageous tales and discovers there is some truth to it. I do not want to give anymore spoilers. But in the fictional town of Spectre, shoes are not allowed. Tourists come to the island to throw their shoes on a line that hangs above the road going into town to pay homage to the film.

After filming, the movie set was left on the island. One of the houses was destroyed due to the flooding from the Alabama River. The commercial district of Spectre was lost in a fire when the owners were burning trash. Sparks accidently set the buildings on fire. Two Styrofoam trees were left from the movie that visitors can cross under that leads into the imaginary town. These trees were created by Stan Winston Studio. This studio also provided makeup and effects for the film. Several of the crumbling houses still stand that lead up to the little white chapel at the end of the road. Designer Dennis Gassner built this small town. The scenes in the picture-perfect town were filmed first, then Tim Burton had the designers to age the buildings to make the town look derelict. The buildings were constructed for filming the outside. So, these houses are not completed from the inside.

Goats and sheep freely wander the island and through the mystical town. They are very friendly and will let you pet them. The goats love a good scratch behind the ears. The Bright Family own the 60-acre property. They allow the public to enjoy the island for the day or for overnight camping. It is also a great place to catch your own big fish, and to boat and kayak. Admission is $5.00 over the age of 10. Children under the age of 10 are $3.00 and under 2 years are free. Camping fees are $15.00 per person per night with children 10 and under $5.00. And under 2 years are free.

Jackson Lake Island is breathtaking, and so peaceful. I did not want to leave this magical place. I highly recommend this location to anyone who needs a quiet getaway. Do not forget your shoes to throw upon the line. Jackson Lake Island is located on Cypress Lane, Millbrook, Alabama. They can be reached at (334)-430-7963 for directions, camping reservations and cost.

Welcome to Spectre

The Road into Spectre

Shoes on the Line

The Tree Portal Into Town Complete With Goats

Cormorants

Jackson Island Lake

Cormorants resting on trees

Goats on the Island

August 5, 2021August 5, 2021

FLOATING ISLAND AND A TALE OF LOST LOVE

Lain to rest in Mobile’s Magnolia Cemetery was a long forgotten colorful character named Mary Eoline Eilands (1854-1937). She is now known as Floating Island, one of the many ghostly apparitions to haunt the streets of Downtown Mobile. I did some “grave-digging” on her after my mother showed me an old newspaper article in the Mobile Press Register that she had kept. It contained a poem about Miss Eilands and her long lost love called Floating Island. Being a real sucker for a mystery (and a love story), I wanted to know more about her. I went to talk to Ms. Janet Savage, Executive Director of The Friends of Magnolia Cemetery. She directed me to burial site of Miss Eilands and her family, where I went to take photos of her grave. It was so surreal to finally visit the burial plot of this fabled woman from Mobile’s past.

The Mobilians called her Floating Island because of her last name and the long black flowing silk skirts that she wore when she went strolling in Downtown. Her unusual gait gave the appearance that she floated along the street. Rumor has it that when Miss Eilands was a young lady, she accepted a marriage proposal from a man who was a Confederate veteran. He had promised to marry her when he returned from the sea. So, everyday until the day she died at the age of 83, she walked from her old neglected house at 655 St. Emanuel Street to the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception for morning mass and then to the docks on the Mobile River looking for her lost lover to return from the sea. Miss Eilands did not like to speak to people on her walk. She never updated her clothes when the fashion trends for women were shorter dresses and hair. Miss Eilands continued to wear her 19^th century attire and kept her waist-length hair with a small hat on her head tied by a ribbon. This outdated look drew attention from the other Mobilians in the town.

I came across an article by Tom McGehee in the Mobile Bay Magazine where he wrote, “The romanticized tale of “Floating Island” became so popular that it caught the attention of South Carolina writer Julia Peterkin, who won the Pulitzer Prize in 1929”. McGehee said that a year later, Ms. Peterkin arrived in the Port City to uncover the story behind this legendary character and asked for the help of Mobile Press-Register reporter, Frances Durham. The two reporters visited Miss Eilands’ crumbling house but were unable to go inside since it was in such bad condition, so they conducted the interview outside. The women could hear several dogs and cats coming from inside her home. It was said at one time that she took care of about 24 pets. Miss Eilands also told the ladies that she never cuts her hair because “her Savior nor his holy mother” had theirs cut.

Later, after that visit, an article in the Press was released describing her as “one of the most picturesque figures”, obviously referring to her younger years. Then went on to describe her home as “gradually falling apart with sagging sills and rain pouring through the roof” and called her “a little old, wrinkled woman.” Furthermore, McGehee went on to say that the article in the Press did not explain why Miss Eilands stood at the edge of the river each day or much of her past life. Well, this unflattering and incomplete article really made Miss Eilands livid. She stormed into the Press office on St. Michael Street and repeatedly slammed her parasol on the counter while using derogatory words that would make a sailor blush. She demanded to see Ms. Durham, who wrote the unflattering story. The Press employees spirited the cowardly Ms. Durham out of a second story window and across the roof to another building to escape Miss Eilands’ fury. I can only imagine how humiliating it must have been for poor Miss Eilands to have the townsfolk read such a mean spirited editorial about her. Floating Island’s life was filled with such heartbreak, that such disrespect obviously sent her over the emotional cliff.

Sadly, Mary Eoline Eilands passed away in her home on September 24, 1937. An article about her death was listed in the Mobile Press-Register. They stated that she was a “symbol of faithfulness.” The words on her cement slab were faded by weather and time. But I hope her story will live a little bit longer. When walking downtown in the streets of Mobile, keep a lookout for a ghostly lady, wearing a long black skirt. If she appears to be floating, you may have just seen the ghost of Miss Mary Eoline Eilands taking her daily walk to go look for her love down by the river.

Miss Eilands is buried between her parents in the Eilands family plot. I believe if there is a statue to be put at the foot of Government Street or Cooper Riverside Park in Mobile, then it should be one of Floating Island as a beautiful young woman looking forever at the sea for the return of the man she loved. She was one of the most unique Mobilians of our past.

Poem about Floating Island by Robert J. Carley.

I remember her as a boy,

She seemed so shy and coy.

Dressed in hoop skirt and ruffled blouse,

Everyone’s thoughts she did arouse.

A woman of quiet appeal,

She strolled the streets of old Mobile.

Called by many Floating Island,

This petit lady, Mary Eiland.

This lovely, lonely maiden

Her heart so heavily laden,

Waited for her lover to return

For him she did yearn.

Ceaseless in her daily hunt

She trudged along the waterfront,

Always hoping to see

Her lover return from the sea.

It was never said or known

Whether the sea claimed him for her own,

Or to some other maiden he did return,

But her love he did spurn.

She must have wondered as she’d pray

Did God really hear her say,

Please bring back my lover to me,

Bring him back from the sea.

Gliding there by the pier

Still looking for the one she held so dear.

Her gait, more a float than a walk,

Always the town news and talk.

This lonely lady growing old

Such a sad and trusting soul,

Must have felt all alone

With no love of her own.

Faithful to God at daily Mass,

To a love so steadfast.

Peace came to her at last,

Still longing for her lover of the past.

Sources

Thomason, Michael. “What’s in a nickname?” Mobile Bay Magazine. 4 January 2012.

McGehee, Tom. “Ask McGehee Over the Years” Mobile Bay Magazine. 19 April 2021.

August 2, 2021August 2, 2021

Mobile’s Historic Magnolia Cemetery: Art, History, and an Iron Lady

Containing over 100,000 buried souls, Magnolia Cemetery is a hauntingly beautiful place of rest for many notable Mobilians from days gone by. The cemetery was established in 1836 and making it Mobile’s third oldest graveyard. It contains over 120 acres with beautiful old oak trees and two entrances lined with magnolia trees. There is also National Cemetery with over 6,000 veterans including a Confederate Rest with its 1100 war dead and two Jewish cemeteries. A plethora of magnificent funerary sculptures keep watch over the graves. Magnolia Cemetery is cared for by The Friends of Magnolia Cemetery. This nonprofit organization was established in 1981 by the Historic Mobile Preservation Society to arrange for volunteer workdays to clear the grass that covered the graves and monuments. Magnolia Cemetery was placed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1986.

Magnolia Cemetery is a work of art with its beautiful cast iron work, mourning angels, crosses, lambs, and monuments. Many of these sculptures in Victorian funerary art represent symbols such as broken columns signify a life cut short while a full column means that a person led a full life. Lambs signify childhood innocence. Angels guard the tomb and direct the living to look heavenward. There is one statue known as the Iron Lady located on the Rowan Family Lot in Square 17. She is titled “Solemnity.” She is different from any other statues in other cemeteries because she is made of cast iron. The other cemetery statues are made from granite or marble. She was forged by the iron foundry of Wood and Perot of Philadelphia, Penn around the mid-1800s and is estimated to be over 100 years old. The Iron Lady has a eerie legend attached to it. She was positioned to face the ocean rather than the east. The legend said she represents a woman who spent each day watching the sea for her lover who never returned. If anyone tries to move her away from facing the sea, then Mobile is struck with violent storms until she returned facing the sea again. So, please leave the Iron Lady alone, especially during hurricane season!

Some of the famous historical Mobilians interned here include Michael Krafft, founder of the Cowbellion de Rakin, forerunner to our many Mardi Gras mystic societies; Bettie Hunter, a former slave who became the first Black female carriage business owner; Mr. and Mrs. Walter D. Bellingrath, founders of Bellingrath Gardens; Gen. Braxton Bragg, U.S. Army officer and Confederate General; Battle House Hotel owner James Battle; Apache Indian Chappo Geronimo, son of Geronimo; Renown physician, Dr. Josiah Nott who was one of the first doctors who found the connection between yellow fever and mosquitoes. Dr. Nott lost 4 children and a brother-in-law to Mobile’s yellow fever epidemic. Dr George Ketchum, Physician and Water Works president who brought safe drinking water to Mobile. The fountain in Bienville Square honors this man. That is just to name to few. The historic figures interred here are from rich to poor, along with many ethnic groups and various military conflicts. There are so many extraordinary stories of our past Mobilians to explore and to keep their past alive. I challenge you to explore the history of the person behind the grave. I found one such woman whose story deserves to be told and a statue needs to be made in her honor at the foot of Government Street. I will share her story in the next blog post. To be continued…

Magnolia Cemetery

The Iron Lady

Magnolia Cemetery

March 17, 2021March 17, 2021

Mummies in Mobile

An incredible exhibition is making its first-time appearance in the United States in the city of Mobile, Alabama. I highly recommend seeing this exciting traveling exhibit, “Egyptian Mummies and Eternal Life.” This exhibit from Italy has been all over the world and is about Ancient Egypt and their funerary rituals. It includes over 100 artifacts from 2,000 to 4,000 years ago. There are no reproductions. Did I mention it includes actual mummies? This exhibition will be on view at The History Museum of Mobile from February 25 thru June 27, 2021.

The exhibit will guide visitors through several shadowy rooms containing funeral trousseaus, sarcophagi, and votive objects. Visitors will also learn about the Egyptian culture, afterlife, and the mummification process. I want to warn the guests with weak constitutions that there is also a decapitated unwrapped mummy head and hand that are well preserved. I could not bring myself to take a photo of those ghastly objects. The decorated artwork on these funeral pieces is extraordinary. I can not believe how well preserved these antiquities remain today.

One of the things I learned was the person’s journey in the afterlife. Not only were they entombed with all the necessities such as food and personal items, but they were provided with a Book of the Dead containing magical spells to help them traverse the underworld. These spells helped a person overcome various obstacles such as monsters and gave one protection from dangerous forces on the way through the Duat (the Egyptian spirit realm) to the place where they would be judged to live among the gods. A page from the Book of the Dead is on display. Another interesting artifact was a long sleeve tunic with the underarm section cut out for ventilation. That was a clever design to keep one cool and protected from the Egyptian heat. Ahh…a Southern fashion opportunity given our hot and humid climate😊. Come and explore while you go back in time to the mysterious land of Ancient Egypt. It is well worth the $10 price of admission.

The History Museum of Mobile is open from 9 to 5 Monday through Saturday and 1 to 5 on Sunday. The museum is free to the public on the first Sunday of every month. Due to the pandemic and high attendance on the free Sundays, visitors need to reserve a time slot to view the exhibition. The museum is located at 111 South Royal Street in downtown Mobile. This exhibition was organized by Contemporanae Progetti in Florence, Italy in collaboration with the National Archeological Museum of Florence.

For additional information or to reserve a spot for Free Sundays, please go to www.historymuseumofmobile.com

February 2, 2021February 2, 2021

Mardi Gras Ain’t Dead – We have the Yardi Gras Spirit!

The revelers demand it. Mardi Gras is for the people; Covid be damn. Joe Cain raised the spirts of the people of Mobile, Alabama around 1866 during Union occupation with some Mardi Gras celebration. In the same celebrative spirit, the people of Mobile and the founders of the Mobile Porch Parade wanted to bring happiness to our community during the pandemic. This movement that the people started to celebrate Mardi Gras is continuing, just in a different manner this year. We are the Mother of Mystics and America’s Mardi Gras. Mardi Gras began with us and certainly will not die here if the citizens of Mobile have anything to say about it.

For those who know nothing of Joe Cain, he was known for the rebirth of Mardi Gras in our dear city after the Civil War. Legend has it that he wanted to bring back Mardi Gras celebration in Mobile and cheer up the citizens of an occupied Mobile by Union soldiers. So, he and six men of the Tea Drinkers Society that he helped organized decided to introduce some Mardi Gras Mayhem. They dressed up as Chickasaw warriors while wearing their confederate uniforms underneath their costumes. Joe Cain called himself Chief Slacabamarinico (We call him Ol’ Slac for short) and paraded through town on a decorated coal wagon while the men banged drums and played horns. It is said they dressed up as Chickasaw warriors because they were undefeated in battle against the Union and this was meant as an insult to the Army. In honor of Joe Cain, we have the People’s Parade called the Joe Cain Procession the Sunday before Mardi Gras.

So now in 2021, we are under Covid occupation and the cancelation of our Mardi Gras balls and parades. I for one was a little sad because I love to photograph the colorful parades, and watch the people scramble for beads and moon pies from the flamboyant floats. Each float is a work of art. I miss the camaraderie of crowd and listening to the bands on the streets. Where else can you do the YMCA with hundreds of your closet friends on Royal Street? But here comes Joe Cain’s spirit through merrymakers of Mobile adorning their doors and yards in festive colors of purple and gold to observe the season. Some neighbors are even holding small parties in their front yard. The creators of the Mobile Porch Parade are also promoting their Yardi Gras movement for the revelers missing this carnival season. All they ask is for you to decorate your porch or yard in its Mardi Gras finest and register to be on the official parade map. Currently, there are over 400 registered homes in the city. Some of the participants have hired Mardi Gras artists to turn their yards into beautiful floats. We have some creative talent in our city and this event helps keep them employed in our tough economic times. I was amazed at the beautiful houses with their larger-than-life yard decorations and the joy and amusement it brought to faces of people, young and old, when they saw the carnival houses. People were out walking and giving directions to their favorite houses on the routes, cars were driving by and stopping for pictures, and homeowners welcomed me into their yards to take photographs. I could almost image the moon pies and beads being thrown into the crowds as the catchy rhythms of the marching bands pass by.

According to an article in the Mobile Press, The Mobile Porch Parade will be releasing their four locations where the community can exchange canned good for Mardi Gras throws. The canned goods will go to the Prodisee Pantry food bank. The MPP is community at its finest by helping its neighbors, local businesses and artists who depend on Mardi Gras for the bulk of their income. It also helps Mobilians and tourists alike by bringing happiest and raising spirits during this pandemic while keeping Mardi Gras alive. Mardi Gras is our Mobile family tradition, and it is in our blood. One of our oldest parades of Mardi Gras is the Order of Myths where the first float of the last parade highlights Folly chasing Death around a broken column and beating him over the head with golden inflated pig bladders. I hope when this pandemic of over, we find Folly beating the crap out of this Covid virus and showing it no mercy. Let the Good Times Roll!

Finally, this article would not be complete without contacting Mr. Mardi Gras himself, for a statement concerning this 2021 Mardi Gras Season. Steve Joynt, a.k.a. Mr. Mask, is the owner, editor, and publisher of the Mobile Mask. This is Mobile’s premier magazine on anything and everything about our Carnival Season. It is your information to a world of fun and merriment. I leave his words with you: “The efforts to celebrate Mardi Gras on our own, from house decorations to little neighborhood parades, have sprung up exactly the way they needed to: organically. Mardi Gras has always been a celebration of the people – not the church or the state – so this year called for the people to step up and say, “This is how we’re going to do it.”

For more information on Mobile Mask and the Mobile Porch Parade map , please click the links below.

www.mobilemask.com

www.mobileporchparade.com

Mardi Gras House

Peacock House

Where the Wild Things Are

Went With the Wind House

Vernadean the Dragon From Mardi Gras Past

Dean the Dragon From Mardi Gras Past

January 4, 2021January 4, 2021

The Historic Battle House Hotel – Murder, Mystery and Elegance

What I consider to be one of the best places in Mobile, Alabama to rest your head and to go back in time to experience the extravagance and artistic beauty of Mobile’s oldest hotel is The Battle House Hotel dating back to 1908. It replaces an earlier Battle House that was originally built in 1852, but unfortunately burnt down in 1905. The first Battle House was originally built by James Battle and his half-nephews, John, and Samuel. In its heyday it was known as Mobile’s Living Room. The current Battle House reopened in 2007 with major renovations after being closed for 30 years. This full restoration of the hotel and the construction of the RSA Battle House Tower made this building the tallest in Alabama. It stands at 745 feet with 35 floors. The Battle House was named America’s best historic hotel by the Historic Hotels of America, an online booking website in 2020. It is located on 26 North Royal Street in the heart of downtown Mobile, Alabama. A hotel this old holds some colorful history, folklore, and murder and a ghost or two.

The site on which the hotel was built was a former military headquarters for Andrew Jackson during the war of 1812. I also discovered that the first Mardi Gras ball was held at the Battle House in 1852 called the Strikers Ball. Another fun fact is that the Mobile’s oldest radio station broadcasted from this hotel on February 7, 1930. Its call sign was WODX before they changed it to WALA in 1933. The hotel has seen some famous guest such as Oscar Wilde, poet and playwright known for writing such works as The Importance of Being Earnest and The Picture of Dorian Gray and two U.S. Presidents: Millard Fillmore (13^th President) and Woodrow Wilson (28^th President). It was also popular with the Hollywood folks when they were in town filming their movies. Nicolas Cage and Robert De Niro have been spotted in the hotel. Spying on guest’s conversation is easy in the lobby with its Whispering Arches. Just ask the hotel staff on where to stand to hear the conversation on the opposite end.

But what about murder you ask? Did you know it was the site of Mobile’s most infamous honor killing? It was called the “Battle House Honor Killing.” Mr. Henry Butler, a former Mardi Gras King, had been caught fooling around with Mrs. Raymond Dyson, his Mardi Gras Queen. They were both in the same Mardi Gras court of King Felix III of 1929. Mrs. Dyson’s husband, Raymond and his brother found out about the affair and wanted revenge. They talked Mr. Butler into following them to room 552, where they eventually beat him to death. It was the top news story in 1932 by the Mobile Press Register. Raymond and his brother were acquitted of this crime of passion. It is said that Mr. Butler’s ghost has haunted the hotel’s fifth floor ever since. I will not be staying in that murder room.

Another ghost story I have heard at The Battle House Hotel involves a young newlywed. In 1910, shortly after the young woman’s wedding, her husband was called away on business and he never came back. She became very depressed and hung herself in the hotel’s Crystal Ballroom. Guests and hotel employees have reported seeing apparitions and hearing strange voices. Lights and faucets have also been known to turn on and off by themselves and some guests have experienced feelings of someone sitting on their bed. I hear that the fourth floor is the place to be to encounter such a haunting. I stayed on the 7^th floor in the historic section but did not experience anything out of order other then our missing cocktail glasses. Hmmm. When construction workers were working to restore the building, they reported missing tools. Some specters have sticky fingers.

When I step into the lobby of this grand hotel, I feel like I stepped back in time. It is very elegant, and the artwork and details are beautiful. It is my hope that you visit the Battle House or if you are on the street, then step inside and check out this beautiful lobby and the Crystal Ballroom. I was thrilled to stay for a couple of days after Christmas when it was decorated in grand fashion for the Holidays. Also, ask one of the employees to share stories of their most notorious guests that have walked these corridors if you dare.

The Battle House
The Crystal Ballroom
The Crystal Ballroom
Battle House Lobby
Battle House Christmas Tree
View to Battle House Lobby

https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/mobbr-the-battle-house-renaissance-mobile-hotel-and-spa/

October 15, 2020October 14, 2020

USS Alabama – Mobile’s Own Gray Lady

The pride of Mobile, Alabama and a part of our skyline is the U.S.S. Alabama Battleship also know as The Mighty “A”. This South Dakota – class battleship came to rest in the Mobile Bay in 1964 after a campaign in raising enough funds to bring her to her new home as a museum ship. The people of Alabama wanted possession of the ship after hearing of the Navy’s plans to scrap it. The U.S.S. Alabama had been sitting dormant for many years in a mothball fleet. This special ship has a proud history serving for three years in World War II.

The Alabama was commissioned August 16, 1942. She had an assigned crew of 127 officers and 2,205 enlisted and earned 9 Battle Stars. The ship is 680’ in length and 108’2” in width with a maximum speed of 28 knots or 32 mph. She does have a lot of fire power: Nine 16”/45 caliber guns accurate to 21 miles, twenty 5”/38 caliber guns, Forty-Eight 40mm guns, and Fifty-Two 20mm guns. Her crew shot down 22 enemy planes during service in World War II. The U.S.S. Alabama battleship was a veteran in the Pacific Ocean Theater and took part in the Battle of the Philippine Sea. Surrender documents were signed aboard the U.S.S. Missouri on September 12, 1945 by the Japanese envoy. The U.S.S. Alabama had an honorable roll the day after these documents were signed. She led the American Fleet into Tokyo Bay. The Mighty “A” is also known as The Lucky “A” because she did not receive any damage nor lose any crew member during battle.

The USS Alabama was decommissioned in 1947 and eventually in 1962 the Navy decided she was to be scrapped. The legislation in Alabama passed a bill on Sept. 12, 1963 to create the USS Alabama Battleship commission and the fundraising began in the Spring of 1964 to buy her from the Navy and bring her to Mobile. School children alone helped raised about $100,000 to bring the ship to Mobile Bay. The children earned a free admission ticket if they contributed any amount of money to tour the battleship once it arrived. Around 300,000 tickets were issued. The Navy finally gave permission to give the ship to the State of Alabama. The State took control of the ship on June 16, 1964. $800,000 was collected to bring the ship to Mobile Bay and the newly created USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park. The Park opened January 9, 1965 to the public.

The USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park boast a statewide economic impact of about one billion dollars to the State of Alabama with over 15 million visitors worldwide. It is dedicated to all Alabama citizens who have proudly served in all the branches of the armed forces of the United States. Also, no taxpayer money is used to support the park. It is funded by admission fees, souvenir sales and voluntary contributions for current operating expenses and expansions. In 1986 the ship was appointed a National Historic Landmark by the National Park Service United States Department of the Interior. The Memorial Park also has a plethora of military artifacts including a submarine, tanks, and planes. There are also memorials on the grounds honoring our men and women who fought and died in service to our Nation. Come explore and learn about our history and military and the dedicated men and women who served that made this Country great.

For additional information on how to explore the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park go to:

www.USSAlabama.com

USS Alabama

Calamity Jane

Memorial

USS Alabama

August 30, 2020August 30, 2020

America’s Amazon

Along the coast of Mobile and Baldwin counties runs the largest river delta and wetlands in Alabama and is the 2^nd largest delta in the contiguous United States. It is called the Mobile-Tensaw Delta. Rivers in this delta include Mobile, Blakely, Apalachee, Tensaw and Spanish that run into the Mobile Bay. These wetlands create a dynamic estuary with various species of fresh and saltwater fish. Along the shoreline are hardwood trees, cypress, swamps, bogs, and marshes. This region is home to some of the most diverse wildlife and plants in the United States. Naturalist, E.O. Wilson described this delta as an “American Amazon” because of its rich biodiversity. I feel so blessed to live to so close to this abundant nature wonderland.

The Delta covers over 40 miles and on average is 10 miles wide. 200,000 acres of this land is the least disturbed natural environment in all of Alabama and is recognized a National Natural Landmark. The Delta also has thousands of acres of water consisting of lakes, rivers, creeks, and bayous. According to Historic Blakey State Park there are over 500 species of plants in the delta along with over 800 species of insects and 300 species of birds. There are also over 125 species of fish; 70 species of reptiles; 50 species of mammals; and approximately two dozen species of amphibians. Because most of the Delta is in very shallow water, many people use small boats, airboats, canoes, and kayaks to traverse this vast area.

So, you want to visit the Mobile-Tensaw Delta, but don’t have a boat? Well, you are in luck. Wild Native Tours and Historic Blakey Park offers Delta and wildlife boat tours of the lower Mobile-Tensaw Delta and the Mobile Bay on the Eastern Shore and Mobile, Alabama. The guides are entertaining and informative and will point out wildlife and other points of interest. You will also learn a little history about the area. It is so exciting to see an eagle or osprey flying about or dolphins, pelicans and seagulls chasing shrimp boats. There are also hundreds of alligators, but don’t worry, you are safe in the boat. Nature lovers will adore these eco-tours. There are plenty of fishing, boating, and camping opportunities along the delta. Meaher State Park on the Causeway in Spanish Fort offers a magnificent view of the Delta from their 300-foot pier with a 200-foot T board walk. Meaher State Park also offers opportunities for camping and fishing. Experience a glorious sunset on the Mobile Bay. I guarantee you will have a fabulous time and enjoy Alabama’s jewel of the coast.