Jekyll Island Historic District
Georgia
Jekyll Island Historic District is a preserved area on Jekyll Island, Georgia, known for its rich colonial history and natural beauty. The district includes historic buildings such as the Horton House, an 18th-century tabby structure built by William Horton in 1742, which is one of the oldest surviving buildings in Georgia. The island was originally inhabited by indigenous peoples before European colonization and later developed into plantations during the British colonial period. Today, the district offers visitors a glimpse into coastal Georgia's architectural heritage with buildings constructed from tabby, a material made from crushed oyster shells. Beyond its historical significance, the island features wide beaches, hiking and bike trails, and diverse wildlife inhabiting the salt marshes. The area is managed by the State of Georgia and is a popular destination for tourists seeking both cultural experiences and outdoor activities. Guided tours of the historic district reveal the island's past, including its role in early colonial defense and agriculture, while nearby natural attractions provide opportunities for recreation and wildlife observation.
Naplánujte si cestu do země Spojené státy americké s AI
Vytvořte si podrobný itinerář za pár minut. AI vám navrhne nejlepší místa, restaurace a optimalizovanou trasu.
Tip: The best time to visit Jekyll Island Historic District is during spring and fall when the weather is mild and less humid. Visitors are encouraged to book guided tours in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak tourist seasons. Exploring the district by bike or on foot is recommended to fully enjoy the scenic trails and historic sites. Discounts may be available for seniors, military personnel, and groups. The Horton House site includes a visitor center with restrooms and parking, making it accessible for families and individuals.
Zajímavosti
- •The Horton House is one of the oldest tabby buildings in Georgia, constructed from a unique coastal cement made of crushed oyster shells.
- •Jekyll Island was once home to Georgia’s first brewery, established by William Horton in the 18th century.
- •The island features 8 miles of wide, flat beaches with sand firm enough for walking and biking.
- •In 2018, Architectural Digest named Jekyll Island one of the 50 most beautiful small towns in America.
Historie
Jekyll Island was initially inhabited by indigenous groups such as the Guale and Mocama before European arrival.
In the early 18th century, William Horton was granted the island and built the Horton House in 1742 after rebuilding following a Spanish attack.
The island became a site for plantations during the British colonial period.
It was later developed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a resort area, then evacuated during World War II for security reasons.
In 1947, the State of Georgia acquired the island to preserve its historical and natural resources.
Průvodce po místě
Horton House1742
An 18th-century two-story house built from tabby by William Horton in 1742. Though the roof and windows are gone, the frame remains intact as a preserved ruin showcasing early coastal Georgia building techniques. Horton was a military leader and early settler who also brewed Georgia's first beer on the property.
DuBignon Family Cemetery19th century
Located across from Horton House, this cemetery is surrounded by a tabby wall and contains graves of family members who owned the island from 1790 to 1886, reflecting the island’s plantation-era history.
Clam Creek Picnic Area
A popular picnic spot featuring a large fishing pier and views of the Sidney Lanier Bridge. It connects to North End Beach and Driftwood Beach via bridges over tidal creeks, offering scenic views of marsh hammocks and coastal landscapes.
Kontakt
Telefon: (912) 635-9330