Could you give us a brief rundown on Hilton Head Island’s history?
We have an archaeological site that dates to 2000 B.C., when Native Americans were here seasonally. Colonial exploration and settlement dates back to the 16th century on nearby Parris Island. And then we had indigo and sea island cotton plantations from the 1740s through the 1860s. Union forces took Hilton Head in November 1861, and we had several years of occupation.
On these indigo and other cotton plantations is where the Gullah culture came to be, as slaves were brought to the Lowcountry from various tribes in western Africa. When they were brought together and lived on plantations, the combination of their cultures became Gullah. It survives today.
What’s the story behind the Honey Horn Plantation (location of the Coastal Discovery Museum)?
Honey Horn was one of the 25 plantations on Hilton Head during the plantation era. This property is owned by the Town of Hilton Head, and the Coastal Discovery Museum (a private not-for-profit organization) raised the capital funds to renovate buildings and make property improvements.
What are some of your favorite things about Hilton Head’s current culture?
The natural beauty is stunning. You cannot be in the Lowcountry without having an appreciation for its waterways, trees, beaches and natural areas. While that doesn’t sound like it connects to the culture of the island, it does. Our “culture” is one that enjoys outdoor activities—biking, golfing, beach walking, etc.—but also the more culinary variety as well. Fishing, oystering and shrimping are all important to the historical culture, but also to our outdoor festivals, oyster roasts, fish fries, etc.
Do you ever work with visiting groups to put together tours or activities?
Absolutely. We work with meeting planners, resort group tour staff, corporate groups, family reunions, school groups and bus tours (groups of all sizes). We are also asked to provide programming at various resorts. These can be presentations or group beach walks, nature tours, birding trips and more.
What meeting facilities are available at the Coastal Discovery Museum?
We have the covered Mary Ann Peeples Pavilion, which is very popular for corporate rentals and weddings. We also have a terrace that is nice for smaller affairs with an adjacent live oak grove.