Saraland

Outer Saraland is exactly what it sounds like—a community that sits on the outskirts of Saraland. Residents enjoy extra seclusion, privacy and life amid a scenic rural setting while still benefiting from Saraland’s great schools, beautiful homes and lush landscaping. “There is definitely a rural feel to that area,” says Beth Abbott, a Realtor with Power Real Estate. “It’s a great area for people who want the small town feel and plenty of space.” Saraland got its name from retired pastor turned editor C.J. DeWitt, who moved to the area in 1890 and opened the city’s first post office along the southern railroad. He named the area after his wife Sara, a grand romantic gesture that would withstand the test of time. Access to a car is a must in Outer Saraland, as there aren’t any nearby bus or train stops. Locals benefit from access to U.S. Highways 65 and 45, which make commutes to Central Saraland, Satsuma, and all the attractions and employers of Mobile simple. Most of the area is comprised of custom-built homes, with traditional Craftsman and ranch-style homes making up the architectural styles. Homes tend to be larger, with custom-built estates sitting on lots with a good amount of acreage lending to the secluded, rural vibe. Many homes also feature paved driveways and attached garages, and home prices range from $235,000 to $700,000. The Keep Saraland Beautiful organization aims to preserve the community’s natural beauty by reducing litter and improving waste management. Residents with green thumbs have a chance to win the organization’s Yard of the Month contest. In 2006, Saraland formed its own city school system, which now ranks among the best in the state. Saraland Elementary School serves approximately 900 students and is a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence. The school’s Project Outreach is a service club that connects disabled students with non-disabled peers for the benefit of both. The school has an overall Niche grade of A and boasts the number one spot on Niche’s list of standout Alabama schools. The school serves grades two through five, with Kindergarten and first-grade students attending Saraland Early Education Center, which has an overall Niche grade of A-minus. The center has a robotics clubs, reading program, a recycling club and other fun educational activities for children. Kids go on to attend Saraland Middle School, which has an overall Niche grade of A-minus and is ranked at the best public middle school in the Mobile area. Teenagers attend Saraland High School, which has an overall Niche grade of A and is ranked the third-best public high school in the Mobile area. All three schools boast the Spartans as their mascot, and there’s plenty of Spartan pride felt around town. Nearby is Pridgen Park, which features open green space for kids to run around and play, along with a swing set. It’s also the site of the Kali Oka Clubhouse, where community events may occur. Local youth leagues play ball at Saraland Neighborhood Park, also known as Oscar Driver Park. The park offers running tracks, a colorful playground and benches for picnics. Local anglers enjoy fishing at Bayou Sara, while others go out onto the water for kayaking or canoeing. Hot Alabama afternoons have families flocking to Saraland Town Center’s splash pad, just minutes away. When all that builds up an appetite, Stoney’s Barbeque is the spot for delicious pulled pork, brisket and ribs. Seafood lovers head to Mudbugs D.I.P. Seafood for southern-style shrimp, crawfish and more. Cracker Barrell, Wintzell’s Oyster House and Zaxby’s Chicken are all popular eateries a short drive away. Locals can grab groceries at the Publix Supermarket at Saraland Crossing. A description of this area would only be complete with at least a mention of some local ghost lore. Near the intersection of Kali Oka Road and Oak Grove Road, there have been reports of supernatural neighbors: a white woman lighting candles in the windows of an old plantation estate and a tall black man spotted walking the grounds at odd hours. There are several rumors and scenarios involving this spectral couple, one of which ties in with stories about a bridge on Kali Oka Road that remains haunted by the ghost of a child. Residents claim to hear its screams and cries when they visit, making it one of several alleged “Cry Baby Bridges” in Alabama.