Alabama’s Hidden Gem Near the Gulf Coast Combines Scandinavian and Czech Heritage with Southern Charm and Seafood

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Alabama's Hidden Gem Near the Gulf Coast Combines Scandinavian and Czech Heritage with Southern Charm and Seafood
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While people may think Alabama has a distinctly American past, visitors to Silverhill may be surprised to learn that the town is heavily influenced by its Swedish and Czech roots. The history of Silverhill dates back to 1896 when Oscar Johnson, an immigrant from Sweden, founded the town and began advertising land in the hopes that more Swedish immigrants would settle there.



In the early 1900s, following the influx of Swedish immigrants, Czech settlers started coming to Silverhill as they were drawn to the fertile and inexpensive land for farming. There are still things that tie the town to this history. The Little Bohemian Hall, which was built by Czech immigrants and has been renovated and restored over the years, is still in use today. Every year, residents celebrate Heritage Day, which features food, local artisans, and a reason to wear traditional Swedish and Czech clothing.

Travelers to Silverhill should plan on renting a car, since there are not many public transit options in the town. Silverhill is less than an hour from Mobile International Airport. Alternatively, travelers can also fly into Pensacola International Airport in Florida and then drive about an hour to get to Silverhill. Lodging options are a bit sparse in town, but you’re close to the popular Magnolia Springs Bed & Breakfast — offering cozy accommodations and a gourmet meal to start your day.



Enjoy uniquely Southern experiences

The Frog Pond porch with multicolor lights and crowd of people

For those who want to enjoy an experience unique to Alabama, be sure to check out The Frog Pond. The Frog Pond is a private outdoor concert venue on Blue Moon Farm that brings musicians and audiences together for intimate concerts and even communal dinners. Silverhill also evokes a sense of southern charm through its food scene. Fidler Farms, for example, is a Silverhill mainstay that sells not only seasonal nuts but also local, grass-fed beef.

Visitors to Silverhill can enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding Alabama landscape. The Oscar Johnson Park, named for the town’s founder, offers a playground as well as covered areas for picnics. A short drive away is another place to enjoy nature, Bohemian Park, a green space right next to the Fish River. For those seeking waterfront views, a short 20-minute drive will bring them to the Fairhope Municipal Pier, a pier on Mobile Bay that offers swimming, walking trails, and picnic areas. Travelers interested in seeing more of Alabama’s natural beauty should be sure to check out Buck’s Pocket, an underrated Alabama state park. It’s located several hours away from Silverhill, so plan your schedule accordingly.

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Savor seafood in Silverhill

Food dishes with a yellow sign for Café Acadiana

Dave Pennells

By Dave Pennells

Dave Pennells, MS, has contributed his expertise as a career consultant and training specialist across various fields for over 15 years. At City University of Seattle, he offers personal career counseling and conducts workshops focused on practical job search techniques, resume creation, and interview skills. With a Master of Science in Counseling, Pennells specializes in career consulting, conducting career assessments, guiding career transitions, and providing outplacement services. Her professional experience spans multiple sectors, including banking, retail, airlines, non-profit organizations, and the aerospace industry. Additionally, since 2001, he has been actively involved with the Career Development Association of Australia.