Some say that if a place doesn’t have history, it’s not worth talking about. And honey, when it comes to the stretch of shoreline known as the Gulf Coast, there’s plenty to talk about. This region has been shaped by centuries of explorers, settlers, fishermen, and storytellers who’ve woven a culture as rich as gumbo and as deep as the tides. Now, the Gulf Coast is stepping into a new era with a fresh moniker—the Gulf of America—a name that aims to capture the region’s deep roots, undeniable resilience, and uniquely Southern identity.

A Coastline Steeped in History

Before we dive headfirst into this new name, let’s take a step back and tip our hats to the past. The Gulf Coast has long been a crossroads of cultures, from the Native American tribes who first called this place home, to the Spanish, French, and British explorers who left their mark on the land. In fact, some of the South’s oldest settlements hug these shores— Think Pensacola, Mobile, New Orleans, and the storied shores of Fort Morgan—each dripping in history and shaped by the tides of time.

For centuries, the Gulf waters have provided livelihoods for shrimpers, oystermen, and fishermen who pass their trade down like a family recipe. The ports of the Gulf Coast fueled industry, trade, and even a little bit of rebellion (because let’s be honest, Southerners have never been ones to just sit down and say “yes ma’am” to the powers that be). From Spanish galleons to pirate ships to the bustling oil and gas industry of today, the Gulf has always been at the heart of American commerce and culture.

Why the Name Change?

Now, let’s talk about this bold new name: the Gulf of America. While the Gulf of Mexico has long been the official title, many folks feel that this coastline—one that has been so instrumental in shaping the Southern way of life—deserves a name that reflects its deep connection to the United States. The rebranding is more than just a fresh coat of paint; it’s about embracing the Gulf’s role in American history, industry, and identity.

Some say it’s about pride. This stretch of the coast has weathered hurricanes, oil spills, and economic shifts, yet its communities stand strong, bound together by a love for the land, the water, and the traditions that make the South, well, the South. Others see it as a way to put the spotlight back on the people who make the Gulf what it is—those who work its waters, celebrate its culture, and carry on the legacies of generations before them.

What the Gulf of America Represents

Y’all know we Southerners hold tight to tradition, but we also know when to shake things up like a fresh batch of lemonade. The Gulf of America isn’t just a name change—it’s a statement. It says, “This is our home, our heritage, and our heart.” Here’s a few things this new name represents:

A Cultural Crossroads

The Gulf Coast has always been a melting pot of cultures. From the Creole and Cajun influences in Louisiana to the deep Southern charm of Mississippi and Alabama, to the Spanish flair of Texas and Florida’s Panhandle, this coastline is as diverse as a church potluck. Music, food, and festivals thrive here, blending to create something uniquely Southern and undeniably American.

A Testament to Resilience

If there’s one thing people on the Gulf Coast know, it’s how to bounce back. Hurricanes may knock us down, but like a good pecan pie, we always come back together, stronger and sweeter. The Gulf of America name serves as a reminder of the resilience, grit, and determination of the people who call this region home.

A Nod to Natural Beauty

From the sugar-white sands of Orange Beach and Gulf Shores to the bayous of Louisiana and the barrier islands of Texas, the Gulf Coast is one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country. It’s where you can cast a line at dawn, fry up the catch by noon, and watch the sunset with a cold drink in hand—all in one day. The name Gulf of America reinforces that this coastline is a national treasure, one worth preserving and celebrating.

What’s in a Name?

Names have power, y’all. They tell a story, set a tone, and shape identity. The shift to the Gulf of America is more than just a geographical tweak—it’s about claiming a sense of ownership and pride in a region that has given so much to this country. Whether it’s the historic battleground of Fort Morgan, the lively beaches of Gulf Shores, or the laid-back coastal charm of Orange Beach, this stretch of coast embodies the true spirit of the South. It’s about honoring the past while stepping boldly into the future.

Of course, not everyone’s quick to change their ways. Down here, we know folks can be set in their traditions like a cast iron skillet on the stovetop- good things take time. Whether you call it the Gulf of Mexico or the Gulf of America, one thing remains the same: this stretch of coast is the heart and soul of the South, a place where history, culture, and natural beauty come together like the perfect Sunday supper.

So, as this new name starts to take hold, let’s tip our hats to the past, raise a glass to the future, and remember: no matter what you call it, the Gulf will always be home to some of the best folks, food, and fun this side of the Mason-Dixon. And if you’re planning a visit, make yourself at home in a Beachball Property—whether it’s a beachfront retreat in Gulf Shores, a cozy stay in Orange Beach, or a quiet escape near historic Fort Morgan—because nothing beats Southern hospitality served with a salty breeze. And that, my friends, is somethin’ worth celebrating.

Come Have a Ball at the Beach!

– Ginger & Hunter Harrelson