Swift-Coles Historic Home: A Glimpse into Coastal Alabama's Past

Step back in time at the Swift-Coles Historic Home, a beautifully preserved 19th-century mansion on the Bon Secour River in coastal Alabama.

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Swift-Coles Historic Home

The Swift-Coles Historic Home in Bon Secour, Alabama, is a beautifully preserved 19th-century mansion that offers a unique glimpse into the lives of a prominent lumber family and the history of the Gulf Coast. Built in 1882, the home has evolved from a simple dog-trot cabin to a grand residence, reflecting the region's architectural styles and the prosperity of the Swift family [3, 14].

A brief summary to Swift-Coles Historic Home

17424 Swift Coles Ln, Bon Secour, Alabama, 36511, US
+1251-424-7500
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Local tips

Check the Swift-Coles Historic Home website or Facebook page for special events, such as historical reenactments, holiday teas, and ghost nights [11, 13, 14].
Consider visiting during the spring or fall to enjoy the beautiful gardens and mild weather [18].
If you're interested in a private tour for a group of 10 or more, contact the Swift-Coles Historic Home to schedule an appointment [6, 10, 11].

Getting There

Driving

From the intersection of the Baldwin Beach Express and County Road 10 in Robertsdale, head south on the Baldwin Beach Express [12]. Take the exit for County Road 10 and turn right heading west. Continue on County Road 10 until you reach Bon Secour Highway and turn left. Turn left again at County Road 49 S and then left onto Swift Coles Lane [7, 12]. The Swift-Coles Historic Home will be on your left at 17424 Swift Coles Ln [7, 12]. Parking is available on-site free of charge [12].

Discover more about Swift-Coles Historic Home

Nestled on the banks of the Bon Secour River, the Swift-Coles Historic Home stands as a testament to Baldwin County's rich history and the enduring charm of Southern architecture [3, 14]. Originally constructed in 1882 as a four-room dog-trot cabin by Thomas Gavin, a local Creole fisherman, the property was purchased in 1898 by Charles Augustus Swift, a lumber baron, and his wife, Susan Platt Roberts Swift [3, 8, 14]. The Swifts transformed the house into a grand sixteen-room mansion, showcasing a blend of Gulf Coast vernacular and Creole Cottage influences [3, 12]. The home remained in the Swift family until 1976 and was then acquired by Nicholas Coles, who bequeathed it to the Baldwin County Historic Development Commission in 2007 [3, 4, 8]. Today, the Swift-Coles Historic Home is open to the public for tours and events, offering visitors a glimpse into the lives of the Swift and Coles families and the history of the region [3, 4, 14]. The house features a collection of artifacts, original furnishings, and photographs that tell the story of the family and their impact on the local timber industry [14]. The grounds of the Swift-Coles Historic Home are equally captivating, with towering live oak trees draped in Spanish moss, providing a picturesque setting for weddings, events, and peaceful strolls [5, 14, 15]. The property also includes several original outbuildings, such as a corn crib, chicken house, barn, and outhouse, offering a glimpse into the daily life of a Southern family in the late 19th and early 20th centuries [3]. The Swift-Coles Historic Home is a popular destination for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and those seeking a tranquil retreat into the past [14].

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Swift-Coles Historic Home

0.0 km

Explore the historic Swift-Coles Home in Bon Secour, Alabama – a captivating journey through time with stunning architecture and lush gardens.

WildNative Tours

3.2 km

Discover the stunning landscapes and wildlife of Gulf Shores with WildNative Tours, your gateway to unforgettable outdoor adventures.

Gulf Shores Welcome Center

4.7 km

Your first stop for an unforgettable Gulf Shores vacation! Get free maps, brochures, and expert advice to discover the best of the Alabama Gulf Coast.

Brett/Robinson Vacation Rentals

4.8 km

Discover the perfect escape at Brett/Robinson Vacation Rentals in Gulf Shores, Alabama, where stunning beaches and comfort await you.

BeachFlight Aviation

5.4 km

Experience the thrill of gyroplane flight over Gulf Shores with BeachFlight Aviation. Tours & training for unforgettable aerial adventures!

Pottery Central World Headquarters

5.7 km

Explore the rich artistic heritage at Pottery Central World Headquarters, where stunning handcrafted pottery meets Gulf Shores' vibrant culture.

Gulf Shores Alabama

5.9 km

Discover sugar-white beaches, turquoise waters, and family-friendly fun in Gulf Shores, Alabama. Your perfect Gulf Coast getaway awaits!

Harris Vacations

6.1 km

Experience the joy of a perfect beach vacation with Harris Vacations, offering exceptional home rentals in Gulf Shores, Alabama.

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store

7.3 km

Experience Southern comfort food and nostalgic charm at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store in Foley, Alabama. A roadside tradition since 1969.

Lambert's Cafe

7.7 km

Experience Southern comfort food and catch a flying roll at Lambert's Cafe, the 'Home of the Throwed Rolls' in Foley, Alabama.

Seacrest

7.8 km

Beachfront condos in Gulf Shores, AL, offering stunning Gulf views, a pool, and easy access to local attractions for a perfect coastal getaway.

Grass Island

7.8 km

Escape to Grass Island in Gulf Shores: An untouched coastal paradise with pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and abundant wildlife.

Souvenir City

7.8 km

Gulf Shores' iconic souvenir emporium with a giant shark entrance, offering a vast selection of beach-themed merchandise and memorable photo opportunities.

St Nick's Knife Factory - Foley

8.1 km

Foley's premier destination for knife enthusiasts, offering a wide selection of quality cutlery, collectibles, and kitchen supplies since 2003.

Marshalls & HomeGoods

8.2 km

Discover stylish clothing and unique home décor at unbeatable prices in Foley's Marshalls & HomeGoods. Shop fashion and home essentials!

Unmissable attractions to see

City Of Gulf Shores Wetlands Park

2.9 km

Discover a tranquil escape at Gulf Shores Wetlands Park: walking trails, birdwatching, and natural beauty await!

Free Tourist Book

4.5 km

Explore the sun-soaked shores and vibrant attractions of Gulf Shores, Alabama, your ultimate travel destination for relaxation and adventure.

Jurassic Golf

4.5 km

Experience a glow-in-the-dark dinosaur adventure at Jurassic Golf in Gulf Shores! 18 holes of prehistoric family fun await.

Pirate's Island Adventure Golf

4.8 km

Experience a swashbuckling adventure at Pirate's Island Adventure Golf in Gulf Shores! Family-friendly fun with pirate-themed mini golf.

Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

4.8 km

Explore the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo - a family-friendly attraction featuring diverse wildlife and engaging experiences on the beautiful Alabama coast.

The Track - Gulf Shores

4.9 km

Experience high-octane thrills and family fun at The Track in Gulf Shores, featuring go-karts, mini-golf, arcade games, and exciting rides for all ages.

Wedgewood Marble Kids

5.0 km

Experience family-friendly fun and tranquility at Wedgewood Marble Kids Garden in Gulf Shores, Alabama, a perfect escape into nature for all ages.

Johnnie Sims Park Pavilion

5.3 km

A versatile outdoor venue in Gulf Shores, perfect for picnics, reunions, and community events, located within the scenic Johnnie Sims Park.

Kids Park

5.4 km

A vibrant and inclusive playground in Gulf Shores, offering a safe and fun environment for kids to play, explore, and make lasting memories.

Gulf Shores Museum

5.6 km

Discover Gulf Shores' past at this charming museum, featuring exhibits on local history, fishing heritage, and the impact of hurricanes.

Mo's Landing Park

6.4 km

Discover a peaceful waterfront escape at Mo's Landing Park in Gulf Shores, offering boat ramps, picnic areas, and scenic views of Little Lagoon.

Park Headquarters

6.7 km

Explore Alabama's Gulf Coast: Discover nature trails, beaches, and family fun at Gulf State Park, a natural oasis in Gulf Shores.

Waterville USA/Escape House

7.1 km

Experience endless fun and adventure at Waterville USA, the premier amusement park in Gulf Shores, Alabama, featuring water rides, escape rooms, and family-friendly attractions.

Wade Ward Nature Park

7.7 km

Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Wade Ward Nature Park, a premier park in Gulf Shores, Alabama, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families.

Gulf Shore

7.8 km

Discover Alabama's Gulf Coast: Pristine beaches, family fun, and Southern charm in Gulf Shores. Your perfect coastal escape awaits!

Experience the vibrant flavors of Gulf Shores at The Sloop – where delicious cheesesteaks meet a lively sports bar atmosphere.

Explore Gulf Shores City Store for unique gifts, beach gear, and local crafts that capture the essence of your Gulf Shores adventure.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Hibas Gulf Shores Karaoke & Arcade Bar

4.6 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Hibas Gulf Shores Karaoke & Arcade Bar, featuring karaoke, arcade games, and a lively bar atmosphere.

Bar 45

4.7 km

Discover the lively atmosphere of Bar 45 in Gulf Shores, where delicious food, sports, and entertainment come together for an unforgettable experience.

The Tavern of Bon Secour

5.0 km

Experience vibrant nightlife at The Tavern of Bon Secour, a lively lounge and bar in Foley, Alabama, perfect for dancing, drinks, and pool games.

BierShackTaproom

5.4 km

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and mouthwatering dishes at BierShack Taproom in Foley, Alabama - your go-to pub for craft beers and fun!

50/50 lounge

5.6 km

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and affordable drinks at Foley's 50/50 Lounge, where locals and tourists meet to unwind and socialize.

Big Beach Brewing

5.7 km

Explore the craft of local brewing at Big Beach Brewing in Gulf Shores, where every sip tells a story of passion, quality, and community spirit.

The Galway Irish Public House

5.8 km

Discover the heart of Ireland in Gulf Shores at The Galway Irish Public House, a cozy pub with delicious food, drinks, and live entertainment.

High Tide Daiquiris & Mimosas LLC

7.3 km

Experience the vibrant flavors of Gulf Shores at High Tide Daiquiris & Mimosas, where every cocktail is a celebration of coastal living.

Ice House Taproom

7.4 km

Experience the vibrant flavors of American cuisine at Ice House Taproom in Gulf Shores, a must-visit for food and beer lovers.

Mudbugs Dive Bar

7.5 km

Discover Mudbugs Dive Bar in Gulf Shores, Alabama – a vibrant pub offering karaoke, sports, and arcade fun for an unforgettable night out.

The Office Lounge

7.5 km

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Office Lounge in Foley, Alabama, where sports, food, and fun come together for an unforgettable night out.

The deck

7.8 km

Experience the charm of Gulf Shores at The Deck, where refreshing drinks and stunning coastal views create the perfect getaway.

Hooters

8.1 km

Experience the thrill of sports and flavor at Hooters in Gulf Shores, your go-to destination for American cuisine and lively atmosphere.

American Legion Post 99

9.0 km

Discover community spirit and affordable drinks at Foley's American Legion Post 99, a lively bar experience for locals and tourists alike.

Roasted Oak

9.2 km

Discover Roasted Oak, a delightful bar and coffee shop in Gulf Shores, offering exquisite drinks and stunning views in Gulf State Park.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Swift-Coles Historic Home: A Glimpse into Coastal Alabama's Past

A brief summary to Swift-Coles Historic Home

Local tips

Getting There

Driving

Unlock the Best of Swift-Coles Historic Home

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Swift-Coles Historic Home

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Swift-Coles Historic Home

WildNative Tours

Gulf Shores Welcome Center

Brett/Robinson Vacation Rentals

BeachFlight Aviation

Pottery Central World Headquarters

Gulf Shores Alabama

Harris Vacations

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store

Lambert's Cafe

Seacrest

Grass Island

Souvenir City

St Nick's Knife Factory - Foley

Marshalls & HomeGoods

Unmissable attractions to see

City Of Gulf Shores Wetlands Park

Free Tourist Book

Jurassic Golf

Pirate's Island Adventure Golf

Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

The Track - Gulf Shores

Wedgewood Marble Kids

Johnnie Sims Park Pavilion

Kids Park

Gulf Shores Museum

Mo's Landing Park

Park Headquarters

Waterville USA/Escape House

Wade Ward Nature Park

Gulf Shore

Essential places to dine

The Tin Top Restaurant & Oyster Bar

Island Wing Company - Gulf Shores

Cactus Cantina Gulf Shores

LongHorn Steakhouse

Wacked Out Weiner Gulf Shores

El Toro Mexican Restaurant

Agave Bar & Grill

Gulf Shores Diner

Bleus Burger Restaurant & Bar

Kitty's Kafe

MISO SEAFOOD

Down South BBQ

Mae Maes Joint

LuLu's Gulf Shores

The Sloop

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Beach Girl At Home

Hertha's Seconds Boutique

The Royal Standard

Too Hot Mamas

Holy Spirit Thrift Shop

Books-A-Million

Gourmet World Market

Beach House Boutique

Glitter & Dirt Boutique

Pelican Place at Craft Farms

Target

Old Time Pottery

Shop LuLu Buffett

Big Fish Ministries Thrift Shop

Gulf Shores City Store

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Hibas Gulf Shores Karaoke & Arcade Bar

Bar 45

The Tavern of Bon Secour

BierShackTaproom

50/50 lounge