FAIRHOPE, Ala. — Fairhope is one lucky city. We get to celebrate our Centennial not once, but twice. In 1994, the city celebrated the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Fairhope Colony by the Single Tax Association. This year, we celebrate the 100th anniversary of the municipality of Fairhope.

“The original colony grew and prospered, and because of that, more and more people moved here. Eventually there was interest in forming a town government separate from the Single Tax Colony,” said Fairhope Mayor Tim Kant. “On April 25, 1908, the town of Fairhope was incorporated, with Dr. Harry S. Greeno as the first mayor. This year, we celebrate the 100th anniversary of the City of Fairhope, but we also look forward to the future. I’m proud that just as in 1908, our downtown is still an exciting, vital place for business and a place for our residents to enjoy.”

The city of Fairhope and the Fairhope Single Tax Corp. worked together on the new Fairhope Museum of History that will be a centerpiece of the centennial celebration.

The Spanish Mission Revival-style building was originally constructed in 1927 to serve as City Hall and most recently served the city as the old police station. Last year, the Single Tax Corp. took possession of the building for construction, doubling the size with an addition that mirrors the original building. The deed for the building will transfer back to the city when work is complete.

“The opening of the new museum is the highlight of the centennial celebrations, but it will be a wonderful permanent addition to Fairhope, for visitors and locals alike,” said Donnie Barrett, museum director. “We are taking the best of all the wonderful historic artifacts and documents that we have and presenting everything in the most professional manner possible. One thing I’m very excited about is a reproduction of the Fairhope wharf. Visitors will walk into the museum just as if they were stepping off a bay boat in 1928.”

The museum opens with a special family day on April 5, and will be open daily with free admission.

Celebrations surrounding the city’s centennial begin in February and continue throughout the year, with exhibits at the Eastern Shore Art Center, special sections in the Fairhope Courier newspaper and other activities.

Music & Movies

Feb. 16, 23 and March 1, 8, Fairhope Faulkner Campus.

Outdoor music by local musicians will be followed by a short historical movie and a family friendly feature presentation. Music starts at 5:45 p.m. Bring lawn chairs and blankets. Refreshments will be available from local charitable groups. No admission charge.

Centennial Gala

March 29, Fairhope Museum of History.

The Fairhope Museum of History opens with a special preview night. Special guests include Fannie Flagg, who will present a special exhibit of memorabilia from her career. Tickets are $100 per person and go on sale at the museum on Feb. 11. Proceeds benefit the museum and a charity to be chosen by Flagg.

Museum Grand Opening Celebration

April 5, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

The public is invited to the ceremonial grand opening of the Fairhope Museum of History. The day’s activities include story telling at the Fairhope Public Library, folk dancing in the museum plaza, children’s activities and much more. Free admission.

Centennial Concert with Baldwin Pops

April 25, early evening. On the Bluff, overlooking the Fairhope Pier.

Celebrate the city’s actual day of incorporation with music from Baldwin Pops.

The Fairhope Centennial Committee includes Donnie Barrett, Fairhope Museum of History; Sheila Propp, Fairhope Courier; Nancy Raia, Eastern Shore Art Center; Rebekah Webb, Eastern Shore Art Center; Larry Thomas, Fairhope Single Tax Corp.; Jo Ann Broadus, Eastern Shore Optimist Club; Charlie Baumhower, Rotary Club of Fairhope; Darrelyn Bender, Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce; Jennifer Fidler, city of Fairhope; Randy Branch and John Pritchett, Fairhope First; Ben Kilborn, Jason Thomas; and Lori Dubose, WABF Radio.