By the 1830's the port of Mobile emerged as a significant shipping destination in the national chain of commerce. The city grew quickly.  It’s official population quadrupled in one decade. Yet it was a transient population composed mainly of young businessmen involved in trade, keeping temporary residences close to the port but traveling frequently between ports and remaining in the north during the summer months. It was difficult therefore for the city government to maintain a stable economy.  Safety, sanitation and infrastructure lagged behind.

By the end of the decade Mobile was gaining note as a welcoming city due to a few architectural achievements, the beauty of its live oaks, and the unique lining of the streets with oyster shells which not only kept them dry but created a clean, sparkling white appearance on sunny days. Oysters were prevalent at the port and Mobile became synonymous with fresh oysters by the end of the century. 

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