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Secrets Of Georgia’s Coastal Island Ruins

Published:

by Merrily Northern

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Have you ever wondered about the hidden treasures along Georgia's coast? Georgia's coastal islands hold secrets waiting to be uncovered. These islands, rich in history, offer a glimpse into the past with their ancient ruins and abandoned structures. Imagine walking through old forts, crumbling mansions, and forgotten cemeteries. Each site tells a story of a time long gone. Whether you're a history buff or just love a good adventure, exploring these ruins can be a thrilling experience. Ready to step back in time and discover the mysteries of Georgia's coastal islands? Let's dive into the fascinating world of these hidden gems.

Discovering Georgia's Coastal Island Ruins

Georgia's coast hides many secrets. Among them, ancient ruins tell stories of past civilizations. These sites offer a glimpse into history, blending natural beauty with human legacy. Let's explore some of the most intriguing ruins on Georgia's coastal islands.

Cumberland Island

Cumberland Island, the largest of Georgia's barrier islands, boasts a rich history. Its ruins are a testament to the island's storied past.

  1. Dungeness Ruins: Once a grand mansion built by Thomas Carnegie, Dungeness now stands in haunting beauty. Fire destroyed it in 1959, leaving behind skeletal remains of its former glory.

  2. Plum Orchard Mansion: This mansion, built in 1898, showcases the opulence of the Gilded Age. Though not in ruins, its historical significance makes it a must-visit.

Sapelo Island

Sapelo Island offers a unique blend of natural wonders and historical sites. The island's ruins tell tales of early settlers and their way of life.

  1. Hog Hammock: This historic community, home to the Gullah-Geechee people, preserves the culture and traditions of African American descendants of enslaved Africans.

  2. Chocolate Plantation: Named for the Chocolate family, this plantation's ruins include tabby structures and remnants of slave quarters, offering a sobering glimpse into the island's past.

Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island, known for its beautiful beaches, also hides fascinating ruins. These sites reveal the island's transformation over centuries.

  1. Horton House: Built in 1743, Horton House is one of Georgia's oldest tabby structures. Its ruins stand as a reminder of colonial life on the island.

  2. DuBignon Cemetery: This small, historic cemetery holds the graves of the DuBignon family, early settlers who played a significant role in the island's history.

St. Simons Island

St. Simons Island combines modern attractions with historical sites. The island's ruins offer a peek into its diverse past.

  1. Fort Frederica: Established in 1736 by James Oglethorpe, Fort Frederica's ruins include barracks, a magazine, and other structures. It played a crucial role in defending the colony from Spanish forces.

  2. Christ Church: Though not in ruins, the historic Christ Church, built in 1884, stands on the site of an earlier church destroyed during the Civil War. Its cemetery holds graves dating back to the 18th century.

Ossabaw Island

Ossabaw Island, a protected wildlife refuge, also holds historical treasures. Its ruins reflect the island's varied past.

  1. North End Plantation: This plantation's ruins include tabby slave cabins and other structures, offering insight into the island's antebellum history.

  2. Boarding House Ruins: These ruins, once part of a boarding house for freed slaves, tell the story of the island's post-Civil War era.

Little St. Simons Island

Little St. Simons Island, a private retreat, offers a serene escape with historical significance. Its ruins add to the island's charm.

  1. Cannon's Point: This site features the ruins of a plantation, including tabby structures and a cemetery. It provides a glimpse into the island's early agricultural history.

  2. Harrington School: Though not in ruins, this historic African American school, built in the 1920s, represents the island's educational heritage.

Georgia's coastal islands hold many secrets waiting to be uncovered. Each ruin tells a story, connecting us to the past and enriching our understanding of history.

Discovering Georgia's Coastal Island Ruins

Exploring Georgia's coastal island ruins offers a unique glimpse into the past. These hidden gems, like Cumberland Island and Sapelo Island, reveal stories of early settlers, plantations, and even pirate legends. Walking through these ruins, you can almost hear the whispers of history.

Each island has its own charm. Cumberland Island boasts the ruins of Dungeness Mansion, while Sapelo Island features the remnants of Hog Hammock. Both sites provide a fascinating look at the lives of those who once called these islands home.

Visiting these ruins isn't just about history. The natural beauty surrounding them adds to the experience. Lush forests, pristine beaches, and diverse wildlife make the journey even more rewarding.

Plan a trip to Georgia's coastal islands. You'll uncover a rich tapestry of history and nature, making it a memorable adventure.