St. Simons Island Pier Village merchants plan 'Second Saturday' event

   Merchants in St. Simons Island's Pier Village are looking forward to their first "Second Saturday" event, this Saturday, March 12, from 5:00 to 8:00 pm. A variety of Pier Village shops and restaurants will be offering refreshments and/or special offers, as a way to reintroduce local residents to the area and to celebrate the changes that have taken place there.

  "The transformation that has taken place in the village is remarkable," explains Charlotte Zell of the Pier Village Merchants Association. "The new plaza at the foot of the pier, and all the lovely changes in Neptune Park, have inspired us to celebrate and showcase these beautiful settings. We also see it as a great opportunity to reintroduce our local residents to our merchants, many of whom are fairly new."

Zell says the event was inspired by downtown Brunswick's successful "First Friday" program, in which merchants offer food tastings, live music, gallery openings and other activities in a fun, family-friendly setting. "Many of the merchants will have refreshments, special offers and other enticements. We will be having some sort of special program at Glynn Art Association. As we get going, we hope to add live music and other activities."



Here is a listing of participating merchants:

 

• Roberta's, 127 Mallery Street - Open until 9. Offering free refreshments and a free gift with any $20 purchase.
• CJ's Italian Restaurant,  405 Mallery Street - $1 off house wines and serving slices all day. Free samples for walkers, and early bird dinner specials. $5 pitchers of domestic draft all day.
  
• Serenity House Tea Society & Shoppe,  504 Beachview Drive - Serving tea samples.
  
• Go Fish Clothing & Jewelry Co.,  203 Mallery Street - Serving punch and food. Sale on selected clothes and some wood items reduced.
  
• Meo's Suite, 311 Mallery Street - 10% percent discount on non-sale items.
  
• Georgia Sea Grill, 310 Mallery Street - Free "tasting" appetizer in the bar area and coupons for a free appetizer or dessert with the purchase of an entree.
  
• Joe's Pizza, 511 Ocean Blvd. - Open until midnight. Selling $2 slices and 10% off menu items. Live music in the parking lot from 5:00 to 8:00 pm.
  
• Wheel Fun Rentals, 541 Ocean Blvd. - Free bicycle inspections.
  
• Moo Cow Ice Cream, 535 Ocean Blvd. - Stop by and see them in their brand new shop!
  
• Fourth of May Cafe, 321 Mallery Street - Free appetizers.
  
• Treasures by the Sea, 227 Mallery Street - Store-wide sale.
  
• Beachview Books, 215 Mallery Street - Stop by for free refreshments!
  
• Southeast Adventure Outfitters, 313 Mallery Street - Sale on selected items.
  
• Simons, 316 Mallery Street - Special sale on selected items.
• Golden Isles Bracelet Company, Pier Village Market
• St. Simons Island Bait & Tackle, 121 Mallery Street
  
• Palm Coast Coffee, 318 Mallery Street - Live music by Matt Williams and special drink prices from 5:00 to 8:00 pm.
  
• Barbara Jeans Restaurant,  214 Mallery Street
  
• Dutchman's Casual Living,  312 Mallery Street
  
• St. Simons Sweets, 229 Mallery Street - Discounts on selected items.
• Island Realty, Inc., 559 Ocean Blvd.
• Edward Jones Investments, 559 Ocean Blvd.
• Snippity Do Dah, 229 Mallery Street
• Brogen's, 200 Pier Alley
• Glynn Art Association, 529 Beachview Drive - Potter demonstrations.

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Historic sites tell the story of the Civil War in Brunswick and The Golden Isles

Unlike much of the rest of Georgia and the Deep South, Georgia’s coastal areas for the most part escaped the major battles and devastation of the American Civil War. There are, however, many sites and attractions throughout Brunswick and The Golden Isles that help tell the story of some of the people, places and issues that led to the conflict, and subsequent efforts to commemorate and retell the story of the war between the states.

BRUNSWICK

Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation. Exhibits, tours and an orientation film tell the story of this former rice plantation and the people who lived and worked there. Located north of Brunswick on US Highway 17. (912) 264-7333 or www.gastateparks.org/info/hofwyl.

Needwood Baptist Church. Organized in 1866 on Broadfield Plantation as Broadfield Baptist Church. Historical marker located one mile south of Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation on US Highway 17.

Confederate Memorial.

Postcard, circa 1910, showing the Confederate Memorial.

Maria Morris Madden, whose first husband was killed at the Battle of Sharpsburg, organized the Memorial Association of Brunswick in the late 1800s, and became the groups’ president. She and her group raised money through organizational dues, and offered “entertainments” in the community to erect a monument to Confederate soldiers. Robert E. Lee’s daughter also contributed money towards the building and installation of the monument, which was dedicated on April 26, 1902, at Hanover Square in downtown Brunswick.

ST SIMONS ISLAND 

Christ Church Frederica. The church cemetery contains the graves of the King family of Retreat Plantation. Henry Lord Page King was killed at Fredericksburg and brought home to Georgia by his servant, Neptune Small. Located approx. 1/2 mile west of the Frederica Road roundabout. Church yard open during daylight hours.

Neptune Park.
Born as a slave on Thomas Butler King's Retreat Plantation (today the site of Sea Island Golf Course), Neptune Small was raised in the plantation society of antebellum Georgia. He accompanied his master's son, Henry Lord Page King, to the Battle of Fredericksburg. After Lord was killed in battle, Neptune brought the body back to Georgia for burial. He then returned to Virginia's battlefields with Lord's brother, Cuyler.

After Emancipation, Small worked for the King family as a free man until his death in 1907, when he was buried in a small graveyard on Retreat Plantation. His former home, located on the beachfront of the former plantation, is today part of a popular waterfront park named in his honor. (Historical marker)

Original St. Simons
Lighthouse, built 1807.

St. Simons Lighthouse and Lighthouse Museum.
The original lighthouse, built in 1807, was destroyed by retreating CSA troops in advance of the arrival of Federal troops. Also the site of Fort Brown, where CSA troops and field guns were deployed to protect St. Simons Sound. 620 Beachview Dr. (912) 638-4666 or www.saintsimonslighthouse.org.

Arthur J. Moore Methodist Museum.
Exhibits discuss plantation life on St. Simons Island. Located at Epworth by The Sea. (912) 638-4050 or www.mooremethodistmuseum.org

Mildred Huie Museum at Mediterranean House.
Exhibits on plantation life on St. Simons Island including scale models and paintings of plantation houses. 1819 Frederica Road. (912) 638-3057.

Hampton Plantation.
Owned by Pierce Butler, it was the subject of a book published in 1863, “Journal of a Residence on a Georgia Plantation,” written by Butler’s wife, English actress Fanny Kemble. The book detailed many of the cruelties of slavery and strengthened abolitionist sentiment here and abroad. Some tabby ruins from Hampton Plantation can be seen along the drive to Hampton Point, just before the marina.

Former slave cabins at Gascoigne
Bluff, St. Simons Island

Gascoigne Bluff. Two slave cabins, once part of Hamilton Plantation, have been preserved by the Cassina Garden Club are open on a limited basis for tours. Located on Arthur J. Moore Drive south of Epworth by the Sea.

A Civil War Diary: A Historical Walking Tour of St. Simons Island.
During this tour led by fictional character Robert Morris, a Union hospital orderly who has returned to St. Simons Island, you’ll hear the stories of the Georgia 26th Infantry Regiment, of Neptune Small and of life on the coastal plantations. (912) 268-2016.

JEKYLL ISLAND

Confederate Battery.
In 1861, Confederate battery positions were established on Jekyll Island. In February 1862, Gen. Robert E. Lee requested permission from Gov. Joseph E. Brown to dismantle the stronghold as “the inhabitants of the island and Brunswick have removed themselves and property” to inland points. Historical marker is located on Riverview Drive at the south end of the Jekyll Island Airport.

“Glory” Beach.
Scenes from the movie, “Glory” were filmed on the beach at Jekyll Island. The 1989 film told the story of the Massachusetts 54th Regiment, the first black regiment recruited in the north. Glory Beach can be accessed via the beach crossover at the Jekyll Island Soccer Complex on Beachview Drive.

Wanderer Memorial,
Jekyll Island

Wanderer Memorial.
Sculpture and information panels commemorate the 1858 arrival on Jekyll Island of the slave ship, Wanderer. Located at St. Andrews picnic area at south end of Beachview Drive. Area open daily, dawn to dusk.

RELATED BOOKS AND REFERENCES

Blue-Eyed Child of Fortune: The Letters of Colonel Robert Gould Shaw.
Shaw was commander of the Massachusetts 54th Regiment, the first black regiment recruited in the north. Known as the “Glory Brigade,” the 54th was stationed for a time on St. Simons Island in 1863.

Journal of a Residence on a Georgia Plantation.
Published in 1863 by English actress Fanny Kemble, who recounts her time at Hamilton Plantation on St. Simons Island. Kemble’s descriptions the horrifying treatment of slaves is credited with doing much toward maintaining British neutrality during the war, when for economic reasons many favored the South—which produced cotton for British textile mills.

The Children of Pride: A True Story of Georgia and the Civil War.
This collection of more than 1,200 letters of the Charles Colcock Jones family of Liberty County examines the war and its impact upon these coastal Georgia planters.

ONLINE

The Brunswick Golden Isles Convention and Visitors Bureau has offers a variety of online information about Brunswick, St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Little St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island. Please visit our web site at www.ComeCoastAwhile.com.

The Georgia Dept. of Economic Development Tourism Division has created an online site that lists Civil War-related sites, events and activities throughout the state. It can be found at www.GaCivilWar.org. The Tourism Division also has published “Georgia’s Map Guide to the Civil War,” which provides information and GPS coordinates for 78 Civil War sites. It is available at state visitor centers and online at www.GaCivilWar.org

The New Georgia Encyclopedia is a great source of historical information about historic people, places and things and provides many additional references. It can be found onlne at www.georgiaencyclopedia.org

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These highlights are by no means intended to fully represent the complete scope of Civil War history in Brunswick and The Golden Isles of Georgia. If you have additional information regarding our area’s Civil War heritage, please call the Convention and Visitors Bureau at (912) 265-0620 or send an email to psaylor@ComeCoastAwhile.com


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African American Heritage in Brunswick and The Golden Isles of Georgia

February is designated Black History Month; however, Black History is every day in Brunswick and The Golden Isles of Georgia. It is recognized and celebrated for the contributions of African peoples and their descendants to the area's history, heritage and culture. As in many parts of the nation, the Georgia coast has a rich legacy of African American influence that spans generations. Their stories can be learned through a variety of sites and attractions throughout Brunswick and The Golden Isles.

Here is a brief sampling of African-American heritage and historical sites in Brunswick and on St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island.

BRUNSWICK

Hofwyl-Broadfield
Brunswick

Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation. Located along the banks of the Altamaha River, Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation State Park offers a fascinating glimpse into coastal Georgia's 19th-century rice culture. Built in 1807, Hofwyl-Broadfield once comprised more than 7,000 acres of rice fields worked by more than 350 slaves obtained mostly from Africa's west coast.

After the Civil War, African Americans who had lived at Hofwyl and other rice plantations along the Altamaha River – Hopeton, Elizafield, Grantly, New Hope and others – settled into small communities nearby while continuing to work, for pay, at the same jobs they had previously done as slaves. Many of these communities had very descriptive names. Needwood, a nearby settlement, was so named for the shortage of "fat wood" for cooking fires. Another community bore a name that needs no explanation: Freedman's Rest.

Rice harvesting ceased at Hofwyl in 1915 and the plantation became a state historic site in 1974. Today, visitors can learn about plantation life and the endless labor required through exhibits, an orientation film and tours of the plantation home and former rice paddies.  Located 10.6 miles north of the Brunswick Golden Isles Visitor Center on US Hwy. 17. Information: 912-264-7333 or www.gastateparks.org/HofwylBroadfield.

Entrance, Selden Park
Brunswick

Selden Park. This public park, near the banks of the Turtle River, was the site of The Selden Normal and Industrial Institute. Considered one of the finest black educational facilities of its time, Selden Institute opened in 1903 and pioneered in the intermediate education of black residents throughout the coastal area. The school closed its doors in 1933. Today, the 35-acre site is a popular gathering place for family reunions, picnics and recreation including swimming, basketball and soccer. The headmaster's house was restored in 2009 and plans are under way to include historical artifacts and other information relating to the school. Park entrance is located north of downtown Brunswick at the intersection of Bay Street (Rte. 341) and Fourth Street. The park is open daily from dawn to dusk.

Colored Memorial School
Brunswick

Colored Memorial School and Risley High School. Brunswick's first public school for African Americans opened in 1870 as the Freedmen's School, later changed to Risley School to honor Captain Douglas Gilbert Risley, who raised funds for the school's construction. In 1923 the adjacent building, Colored Memorial High School, was built and named to honor African American veterans in World War I. In 1936 Risley High School was built on the site of the 1870 Freedmen'd School and remained in service until 1955 when a new Risley High School was constructed. Both the Colored Memorial School and Risley High School are landmarks of African American education in Glynn County. A historical marker is located in front of the school, at 1800 Abany Street.

First African Baptist Ch.
Brunswick

First African Baptist Church.  The present congregation worships in the original sanctuary, built in 1863. 1416 Amherst Street, 912-265-7608.

St. Athanasius' Church.  Home to Brunswick's second oldest black congregation. 1321 Albany Street, 912-264-3985.

St. Paul AME Church. Home to Brunswick's third oldest black congregation. 1520 Wolfe Street, 912-264-2734. 


ST. SIMONS ISLAND

Neptune Small marker
Neptune Park, St. Simons Island

Neptune Park. Neptune Park was named for Neptune Small, a slave of the King family of Retreat Plantation. Born in 1831, Neptune was responsible for looking after the King children. In 1861, he accompanied one of the King sons, Henry Lord Page King, into service in the Confederate Army as King's manservant. King was killed at the Battle of Fredericksburg in December 1862, and his body was retrieved from the battlefield and returned to Georgia by Neptune.

Neptune returned to war accompanying a second King son, R. Cuyler King, until Confederate forces surrendered in 1865. After the war, freedman Neptune, having chosen the surname "Small" for his slight stature, was given a tract of land at the southern end of St. Simons Island by the King family. He died in 1907 and was laid to rest in the old Retreat Burying Ground, where a bronze tablet recounts his story. Part of his former home is today a popular waterfront park, named in his honor.
Neptune Park is located in the St. Simons Island village area, along the waterfront between Mallery and 12th Street. The park is open daily from dawn to dusk.

Emmanuel Baptist Church
St. Simons Island

 Emmanuel Baptist Church. 1407 Demere Road. 912-638-3852.





Retreat Plantation Slave Cabin. Though many of the structures from St. Simons Island's numerous 19th plantations have disappeared, a few cabins built to house slaves remain. These dwellings, built in the early 1800s, often housed two families. This cabin was part of Retreat Plantation. It now houses a gift shop.  Located at the intersection of Frederica and Demere Roads, at the southeast corner of the roundabout.

Retreat Plantation Hospital ruin. Once the hospital for the enslaved Africans of Retreat Plantation, the tabby structure was two and a half stories and contained ten rooms. Two women lived there as nurses, and a doctor from Darien occasionally visited to care for the ill. Located on the grounds of the Sea Island Golf Club (private).

St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church. 2700 Demere Road. 912-638-4460.

Hamilton Plantation slave cabins
Gascoigne Bluff, St. Simons Island

Hamilton Plantation Slave Cabins. Among the best examples of the few surviving plantation dwellings are these cabins, once part of Hamilton Plantation. Maintained by the Cassina Garden Club, the cabins are open to the public June through August, Wednesdays from 10:00 am to noon. Tours can also be arranged by appointment during September - May. Located at Gascoigne Bluff, just south of Epworth by the Sea on Arthur J. Moore Drive. Information: www.cassinagardenclub.org

Ebo Landing. The term, Igbo (pronounced "ee-bow") refers to persons from the West African area known as Igboland, now Nigeria. In May 1803, a mass drowning of slaves occurred at a point now called Ebo Landing, located along Dunbar Creek, a tributary of the Frederica River. A group of Igbo tribesman, captured and destined for slavery, rebelled as their boat neared shore. Led by an Igbo chieftain, the proud tribesmen marched into the waters of the creek, chanting an Igbo hymn and trusting in the protection of their God, Chukwu, rather than submit to slavery. Survivors were taken to Cannon's Point Plantation on St. Simons Island, and to Sapelo Island, where their story was recounted. Their tale forms the basis of a well-known local legend, of Igbo spirits still roaming the banks of Dunbar Creek. The general area of Igbo Landing is on private property. It can be seen from a distance along Sea Island Road, by looking to the northeast from the Dunbar Creek bridge.

Harrington Graded School
St. Simons Island

Harrington. Following emancipation, many freed slaves from the plantations on St. Simons Island's north end settled in an area along the northeast portion of the island known as Harrington. During the colonial era, Harrington had been granted to Capt. Raymond Demere, who had served under Gen. Oglethorpe and who named his home Harrington Hall. In the 1860s, freedmen acquired small tracts of land here. Many Harrington residents worked at the sawmills that were the backbone of the island's economy through the turn of the 20th century.

Harrington has been the site of numerous historical and cultural events, according to the St. Simons African American Heritage Coalition. In the 1930s, interviewers from the Georgia Writers Unit of the Works Progress Administration (WPA) visited St. Simons Island, Their report, published as Drums and Shadow, describes Harrington's homes and residents and includes an interview with Ben Sullivan whose father, Belali, was butler to James Couper of Altama. In 1949, Lorenzo Dow Turner interviewed Harrington resident Belle Murray for his study, "Africanisms in the Gullah Dialect." Turner also recorded several songs for Lydia Parrish, author of Slave Songs of the Georgia Sea Islands." Parrish's book included a photo of Harrington School, taken by photographer Forestra Hodgson Wood.

In 1961, Alan Lomax filmed the orginal Georgia Sea Island Singers at the camp located between North and South Harrington Road. These recordings are today part of the Library of Congress and Smithsonian Folkways Collection. The 1974 movie, "Conrack," starring Jon Voight, was filmed on St. Simons Island at Harrington School. The movie is based on Pat Conroy's book, The Water is Wide, which details his experience teaching Gullah-Geechee children on Daufuskie Island, South Carolina.

Today, Harrington is considered to have the island's largest concentration of residents who trace their ancestry directly back to African-American slaves. Efforts are under way to restore Harrington School, which served as the main educational structure for three African-American communities on St. Simons Island until desegregation in the 1960s. The restoration is being undertaken by the St. Simons African American Heritage Coalition in cooperation with the St. Simons Land Trust. Harrington School is located on South Harrington Road, which intersects Frederica Road near Benny's Red Barn. Information: www.ssaahc.org.

First African Baptist Church
St. Simons Island

First African Baptist Church. Organized in 1859, it is one of the area's oldest congregations. The present church was built in 1866 by former slaves of St. Simons Island plantations. 5800 Frederica Road, 912-638-5539.

Abbott Memorial
Fort Frederica
St. Simons Island

Abbott Memorial. The child of former slaves, Robert Sengstacke Abbott was born on St. Simons Island in 1868. He grew up in Savannah, and attended Hampton Institute in Virginia, where he studied the printing trade. In 1898, Abbott received a law degree from Kent College of Law in Chicago. In 1905 he founded The Chicago Defender with an initial investment of 25 cents. The Defender, which became the most widely circulated black newspaper in the country, came to be known as "America's Black Newspaper" and made Abbott one of the first self-made millionaires of African American descent.

Never forgetting his family's slave background, Abbott returned to St. Simons Island in the 1930s and erected an obelisk, honoring his father, Thomas Abbott, and two beloved aunts, Celia Abbott and Mary Abbott Finnick, on the grounds of Fort Frederica. Abbott's often lonely struggles for positive race relations in the early 20th century led author Roi Ottley to call him "The Lonely Warrior," the title of Ottley's 1955 biography of Robert S. Abbott. Located on the grounds of Fort Frederica National Monument. Open daily, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Information: 912-638-3639 or www.nps.gov/fofr.

Hampton slave cabin ruins
St Simons Island

Hampton Plantation slave cabin ruins. Owned by Pierce Butler, Hampton Plantation was the subject of a book published in 1863, “Journal of a Residence on a Georgia Plantation,” written by Butler’s wife, English actress Fanny Kemble. The book detailed many of the cruelties of slavery and strengthened abolitionist sentiment here and abroad. Some tabby ruins from Hampton Plantation can be seen along the drive to Hampton Point, just before the marina. Follow Lawrence Road north of the roundabout to Hampton Point Drive.


JEKYLL ISLAND

Wanderer Memorial
Jekyll Island

The Wanderer Memorial. Built as a racing schooner in 1857, the vessel Wanderer achieved instead a notorious record in the brutal and illegal transport of African slaves to America. In September 1858, the Wanderer sailed to the west coast of Africa, where it took on board some 490 slaves. With the speed to elude capture, the Wanderer reached American shores near Cumberland Island in November of that year, and unloaded its human cargo on nearby Jekyll Island. In November 2008, a memorial was dedicated on Jekyll Island to the memory and spirit of those Africans brought to our shores against their wills aboard this infamous vessel and others. Located at St. Andrews Picnic Area, at the southern tip of Jekyll Island. Accessible via Riverview or Beachview Drive. Open daily, dawn to dusk.


Jekyll Island History Center. Housed in the former Jekyll Island Club stable, the history center displays exhibits devoted to Jekyll Island's past. Among items displayed are a painting of the slave ship, Wanderer, and images of Red Row, living quarters for African-Americans who were employed by the Jekyll Island Club when the island was a retreat for America's wealthiest families. Red Row was named for the red roofs of its 12 cottages. The small community included a schoolhouse and a church. Located on Stable Road in the Jekyll Island National Historic Landmark District. Open daily except Christmas from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Information: 912-635-3636 or www.jekyllisland.com.

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Special thanks to Dee C. Lubell, executive director of A Project for Cultural Affairs (APCA), who graciously reviewed this material and provided insight into the area's African American heritage. APCA's mission is "to learn, teach, and heal through the arts; to preserve the way of life, heritage, arts and letters of the African American and African societies throughout the Diaspora. APCA carries out its mission through a variety of programs including the annual Sea Islands Black Heritage Festival, Island Club Cabaret and Coastal Youth Theatre of Voices. APCA also conducts African American heritage tours of St. Simons Island. For information visit them online.

Additional information was provided courtesy of the St. Simons African American Heritage Coalition (SSAAHC). Founded in 2000, its mission is "to educate, preserve, and revitalize African American heritage and culture." SSAAHC sponsors and is engaged in several activities including the annual Georgia Sea Islands Festival, and the preservation and restoration of the historic Harrington Graded School. SSAAHC also offers African American heritage tours and other community outreach programs. For information, visit their website.

These highlights are by no means intended to fully represent that complete scope of African American cultural heritage in Brunswick and The Golden Isles of Georgia. If you have information regarding the black history and heritage of Brunswick, St. Simons Island, Jekyll Island, Sea Island or Little St. Simons Island, please contact the Convention and Visitors Bureau at 912-265-0620, or send an email to psaylor@ComeCoastAwhile.com so that future information on the topic may be more complete.

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Special events celebrate Brunswick and The Golden Isles' African American heritage

   Special events during February will celebrate African American heritage in Brunswick and The Golden Isles of Georgia.

  On Saturday, Feb. 12, the St. Simons African American Coalition and Cassina Garden Club will sponsor "From Slavery in the Tabby Cabins to Freedom at Harrington School House." This all-day event will trace the growth of St. Simons Island's African American people, from the days of plantation slavery to the freedom and self-empowerment found through education.

Tabby cabins at Gascoigne Bluff

          10:00 am to noon - Programs at the Cassina Garden Club tabby cabins on Gascoigne Bluff.

          10:30 am - African American musical performance at the tabby cabins.

Harrington School
Credit: Georgia Trust

          1:00 to 3:00 pm - Meet former students at the Harrington Graded School House on South Harrington Road.

         2:00 pm - Performance by the Brunswick Shouters, on the grounds of the Harrington School

  All events are free. Donations will benefit preservation and restoration of the historic Harrington School. Built in 1925, the school was named to the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation's 2011 List of '10 Places in Peril'.  The school served as the main educational structure for three African American communities on St. Simons Island until desegregation in the 1960s. The school also served as a social hub for community and was the site of many community gatherings and activities.

* * *

  On Saturday, Feb. 18, Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation presents "Tell Me a Story," a special program that combines stories and songs of individuals and families in Africa and America. Presenters will be Braima Moiwai, a native of Sierra Leone, and Pline Mounzeo, a native of Congo.

Credit: Hofwyl-Broadfield

  The high-energy performance will weave together West and Central African cultures through stories, songs and poems. "Mandé (West African) and Bantu (Central African) cultures contributed a great deal to Africanism in American culture," Moiwai explains. 

  A regular presenter at Hofwyl-Broadfield, Moiwai is a storyteller and musician who specializes in the oral traditions of the coastal regions of West Africa and the influence of African languages and cultures on the Gullah and Geechee culture of South Carolina and the Georgia sea islands. He will be joined by percussionist and dancer, Pline Mounzeo, who is a guest artist and teacher at Duke University. He has appeared in Le Ballet Final and the Traditional Ballet of Pierre Sacree, and has also worked for extended periods at L' Association Eolo, a center for the arts in Lyon, France.

Credit: Hofwyl-Broadfield

  Moiwai will begin the day at 11:00 am by preparing an African dish, Jollof Rice, for visitors. He will cook the dish using the traditional African method, in a large cast iron pot over an open fire. The dish will be served at noon along with lemonade and cookies. 

  While visitors enjoy their meal, Moiwai and Mounzeo will begin their performance, utilizing a variety of musical instruments such as Ngoma (tall drums), djembe drums, djun djun drums and shakers. At 1:00 pm, Moiwai will move to the Hofwyl Theater for more music and a presentation on life in Sierra Leone, followed by a discussion with the audience.

  Regularly scheduled tours of the antebellum plantation house will be offered throughout the day. Admission is $6 for adults, $5.50 for seniors and $3.50 for youth. 

  Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation State Historic Site is owned and operated by the Georgia Dept. of Natural Resources. For information call 912-264-7333 or visit www.gastateparks.org/info/hofwyl.

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2011 Special Events in Brunswick and The Golden Isles of Georgia

No matter what time of year, you'll find a wonderful array of weekend festivals, concerts and other activities throughout Brunswick and The Golden Isles of Georgia. Here are some of the highlights; for a complete listing of exhibits, concerts, theatre performances and more, please visit our comprehensive online Calendar of Events.

FEBRUARY

Feb 4     First Friday - Visit the shops and galleries of Historic Downtown Brunswick. "He Said Beer, She Said Wine" tastings at select shops, live music at various locations and monthly art exhibit opening at Art Downtown/Gallery 209. 5:00 to 8:00 pm, Newcastle Street. Information: 912-265-4032 or www.brunswickgeorgia.net

Southeast Georgia Health System Bridge Run
Credit: Southeast Georgia Health System

Feb 19     Southeast Georgia Health System Bridge Run - Georgia's toughest 5K run traverses the Sidney Lanier Bridge. USTFA certified event. Other events include 5K walk and various family activities. Information: 912-258-8220 or www.active.com/running/brunswick-ga/southeast-georgia-health-system-bridge-run-ninth-annual-2011

Living history at Fort Frederica

Feb 19-20     Living History Encampment at Fort Frederica - Celebrate the 275th anniversary of the founding of Fort Frederica, explore the past and meet people who called Frederica home as they demonstrate life in the 1700s. 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, Ft. Frederica National Monument, St. Simons Island. 912-638-3639 or www.nps.gov/fofr

Feb 20     9th Annual UGA 4H Tidelands Art Sale - Local artists display their artwork for sale to benefit UGA 4-H Tidelands Nature Center. Items for sale will include pottery, metalwork, paintings, photography, jewelry, stained glass and more. 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, Magnolia Hall on Jekyll Island's Historic Convention Campus. 912-635-3636 or www.jekyllisland.com

MARCH

First Friday, downtown Brunswick

Mar 4     First Friday - Visit the shops and galleries of Historic Downtown Brunswick. "He Said Beer, She Said Wine" tastings at select shops, live music at various locations and monthly art exhibit opening at Art Downtown/Gallery 209. 5:00 to 8:00 pm, Newcastle Street. Information: 912-265-4032 or www.brunswickgeorgia.net


Mar 11-13      Jekyll Island Arts Festival - Exhibits, juried show, food, music, demonstrations, members’ art in all mediums for sale. 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Goodyear Cottage, Jekyll Island Historic District. Jekyll Island Arts Association. 912-635-3920 or www.jekyllisland.com

Peaches to the Beaches Yard Sale

Mar 11-12     Peaches to the Beaches Yard Sale - A 220+ -mile yard sale linking communities along US Highway 341 – the Golden Isles Parkway – from Brunswick & The Golden Isles to Culloden, GA. Vendors will offer antiques, local crafts and traditional yard sale fare. Information: 912-265-0620 or www.peachestothebeaches.com


 
Mar 19     58th Annual Christ Church Tour of Homes - 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, St. Simons Island. For tickets and information, call 912-638-8683 or visit www.christchurchtourofhomes.org

Arts and Crafts Show, St. Simons Island

Mar 19-20      Annual Spring Invitational Arts & Crafts Show - Local and regional artists in all media. 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Postell Park, St. Simons Island. 912-262-0628 or www.artdowntowngallery209.com


Mar 25-27     US Kids Golf Jekyll Island Cup - Young golfers, ages 6 to 14, compete for individual honors on Jekyll Island's beautiful golf courses. This tournament is one of several regional tournaments produced by the US Kids Golf Foundation. 912-635-3636 or www.jekyllisland.com

APRIL

Apr 1     First Friday - Visit the shops and galleries of Historic Downtown Brunswick. "He Said Beer, She Said Wine" tastings at select shops, live music at various locations and monthly art exhibit opening at Art Downtown/Gallery 209. 5:00 to 8:00 pm, Newcastle Street. Information: 912-265-4032 or www.brunswickgeorgia.net

Antique Show and Sale, St. Simons Island

Apr 2-3      Antique Show and Sale - Vendors from throughout the Southeast offer antiques, collectibles and craft items. Postell Park, Beachview Drive in Pier Village – St. Simons Island. Information: 912-264-3254 or www.stsimonsantiqueshow.com


Apr 9-10     18th Annual Glynn Art in the Park Spring Fine Arts and Crafts Festival - Artists and craftspeople in all media. 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Postell Park, St. Simons Island. 912-638-8770 or www.glynnart.org

Easter Egg Stroll
Credit: Jekyll Island Auth.

Apr 23     Easter Egg Stroll - A family-friendly Easter gathering in the Jekyll Island Historic District. Search and find Easter Eggs hidden along Pier Road, get pictures with Easter Bunny, and enjoy pony rides and other activities. 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. Eggs will be hidden and re-hidden throughout the festival. Special section for kids 3 and under. 912-635-3636 or www.jekyllisland.com

MAY

May 6      First Friday - Visit the shops and galleries of Historic Downtown Brunswick. "He Said Beer, She Said Wine" tastings at select shops, live music at various locations and monthly art exhibit opening at Art Downtown/Gallery 209. 5:00 to 8:00 pm, Newcastle Street. Information: 912-265-4032 or www.brunswickgeorgia.net

Cassina Garden Club slave cabin.
Credit: Cassina Garden Club

May 7-8     Tabby & Tillandsia Garden Walk, Garden Market & Photographic Exhibition - St. Simons Island. Information: www.cassinagardenclub.org

May 8     Annual Blessing of the Fleet - Mary Ross Waterfront Park, downtown Brunswick. Information: 912-265-4032 or visit www.brunswickgeorgia.net

Scribblers Retreat Writers Workshop
Credit: Scribblers Retreat

May 12-14      Scribblers Retreat Writers Workshop - Multi-day writers workshop features regional and nationally known writers, discussing a range of topics and genres. King and Prince Beach and Golf Resort, St. Simons Island. 800-996-2904 or www.scribblersretreatwritersconference.com


May 15     A Little Light Music - Local and regional musicians perform outdoors on the grounds of the St. Simons Island Lighthouse. Sponsored by the Coastal GA Historical Society. 912-638-4666 or visit www.saintsimonslighthouse.org/music

Turtle Crawl Triathlon
Credit: Jekyll Island Authority

May 21     Turtle Crawl Triathlon and Nest Fest - The Jekyll Island Turtle Crawl & Nest Fest is a USAT sanctioned Olympic and Sprint Distance Triathlon produced by DRC Sports and 5K Fun Run produced by Milestone Race Authority. Events culminate with the Saturday afternoon release of a rehabilitated sea turtle from the Georgia Sea Turtle Center. Events benefit the Georgia Sea Turtle Center on Jekyll Island. 912-635-3636 or www.jekyllisland.com

May 28-29     Antique Show and Sale - Vendors from throughout the Southeast offer antiques, collectibles and craft items. Postell Park, Beachview Drive in Pier Village – St. Simons Island. Information: 912-264-3254 or www.stsimonsantiqueshow.com

May 28-29     Annual Memorial Day Invitational Arts & Crafts Show - Pier Village Parks, St. Simons Island. Pier Village Association. Information: 912-262-0628 or www.artdowntowngallery209.com

JUNE

'Mr. Wiggles' at Hattie's Books
Downtown Brunswick

June 3     First Friday - Visit the shops and galleries of Historic Downtown Brunswick. "He Said Beer, She Said Wine" tastings at select shops, live music at various locations and monthly art exhibit opening at Art Downtown/Gallery 209. 5:00 to 8:00 pm, Newcastle Street. Information: 912-265-4032 or www.brunswickgeorgia.net

June 12     A Little Light Music - Local and regional musicians perform outdoors on the grounds of the St. Simons Island Lighthouse. Sponsored by the Coastal GA Historical Society. 912-638-4666 or visit www.saintsimonslighthouse.org/music.html


June 18-19     Georgia Sea Islands Festival - Information: www.ssiheritagecoalition.org/festivals.html

June 25-26      Antique Show and Sale - Vendors from throughout the Southeast offer antiques, collectibles and craft items. Postell Park, Beachview Drive in Pier Village – St. Simons Island. Information: 912-264-3254 or www.stsimonsantiqueshow.com

JULY

July 4 Fireworks
St. Simons Island

Jul 1     First Friday - Visit the shops and galleries of Historic Downtown Brunswick. "He Said Beer, She Said Wine" tastings at select shops, live music at various locations and monthly art exhibit opening at Art Downtown/Gallery 209. 5:00 to 8:00 pm, Newcastle Street. Information: 912-265-4032 or www.brunswickgeorgia.net

July 2-4     Sunshine Festival Arts & Crafts Show - Postell Park, Beachview Drive, St. Simons Island. Pier Village Association. Information: 912-262-0628 or www.artdowntowngallery209.com

July 3     A Little Light Music - Local and regional musicians perform outdoors on the grounds of the St. Simons Island Lighthouse. Sponsored by the Coastal GA Historical Society. 912-638-4666 or visit www.saintsimonslighthouse.org/music.html

Brunswick Fourth of July celebration

July 4     Old Fashioned Fourth of July Celebration - Downtown Brunswick. Contact 912-265-4032 or visit www.downtownbrunswickga.com

July 4     4th of July Fireworks Extravaganza - Jekyll Island. Contact: 912-635-3636 or visit www.jekyllisland.com

AUGUST

Aug 5     First Friday - Visit the shops and galleries of Historic Downtown Brunswick. "He Said Beer, She Said Wine" tastings at select shops, live music at various locations and monthly art exhibit opening at Art Downtown/Gallery 209. 5:00 to 8:00 pm, Newcastle Street. Information: 912-265-4032 or www.brunswickgeorgia.net

A Little Light Music
St. Simons Island

Aug 7     A Little Light Music - Local and regional musicians perform outdoors on the grounds of the St. Simons Island Lighthouse. Sponsored by the Coastal GA Historical Society. 912-638-4666 or visit www.saintsimonslighthouse.org/music


Aug 11-13     Scribblers Retreat Writers Workshop - Multi-day writers workshop features regional and nationally known writers, discussing a range of topics and genres. King and Prince Beach and Golf Resort, St. Simons Island. 800-996-2904 or www.scribblersretreatwritersconference.com

Beach Music Festival
Credit: Jekyll Island Authority

Aug 11-13     Jekyll Island Beach Music Festival - Information: 912-635-3636 or visit www.jekyllisland.com

Aug 19-21     Sea Islands Black Heritage Festival - Celebrate African American heritage and culture through live entertainment, craft demonstrations, food and a marketplace. St Simons Island. Information: 912-230-2834 or www.seaislandsblackheritagefestival.com

SEPTEMBER

Color Me Happy,
Downtown Brunswick

Sep 2     First Friday - Visit the shops and galleries of Historic Downtown Brunswick. "He Said Beer, She Said Wine" tastings at select shops, live music at various locations and monthly art exhibit opening at Art Downtown/Gallery 209. 5:00 to 8:00 pm, Newcastle Street. Information: 912-265-4032 or www.brunswickgeorgia.net

Sep 3-4     Antique Show and Sale - Vendors from throughout the Southeast offer antiques, collectibles and craft items. Postell Park, Beachview Drive in Pier Village – St. Simons Island. Information: 912-264-3254 or www.stsimonsantiqueshow.com

Sept 3-4     Annual Labor Day Invitational Arts & Crafts Show - Postell Park, St. Simons Island. Information: 912-262-0628 or www.artdowntowngallery209.com

Sept 4     A Little Light Music - Local and regional musicians perform outdoors on the grounds of the St. Simons Island Lighthouse. Sponsored by the Coastal GA Historical Society. 912-638-4666 or visit www.saintsimonslighthouse.org/music.html

Shrimp & Grits
Credit: Jekyll Island Authority

Sep 16-18     Shrimp & Grits: The Wild Georgia Shrimp Festival - A signature cook-off event with participation from amateur and professional chefs throughout the region. The event also features live entertainment throughout the weekend, shrimp-eating contests, a Family Fun Zone, and vendor area complete with an antique and collectables market. Information: 912-635-3636 or visit www.jekyllisland.com

OCTOBER

Oct. 1-2     Antique Show and Sale - Vendors from throughout the Southeast offer antiques, collectibles and craft items. Postell Park, Beachview Drive in Pier Village – St. Simons Island. Information: 912-264-3254 or www.stsimonsantiqueshow.com

DNR CoastFest, Brunswick

Oct 7     First Friday - Visit the shops and galleries of Historic Downtown Brunswick. "He Said Beer, She Said Wine" tastings at select shops, live music at various locations and monthly art exhibit opening at Art Downtown/Gallery 209. 5:00 to 8:00 pm, Newcastle Street. Information: 912-265-4032 or www.brunswickgeorgia.net


Oct. 8     Dept. of Natural Resources CoastFest - A fun family event celebrating Georgia’s coastal environment and wildlife. Georgia Dept of Natural Resources, Brunswick. Contact: 912-264-7218 or visit www.crd.dnr.state.ga.us/

Brunswick Rockin' Stewbilee

 Oct 8     Brunswick Rockin’ Stewbilee - Enjoy a taste of the Georgia Coast during this traditional celebration in historic downtown Brunswick. The day begins with a road race, pet parade and antique car show. Later, local teams compete to see who can prepare the “Best Brunswick Stew.” Contact 912-265-4032 or visit www.brunswickstewbilee.com

Oct 8-9      Annual Fine Arts and Crafts Festival - Pier Village area, St. Simons Island. Sponsored by the Glynn Art Association. Contact: 912-638-8770 or visit www.glynnart.org

Seaside Golf Course
Credit: McGladrey Classic

Oct 10-16     McGladrey Classic Golf Tournament - This PGA Fall Tour event is played on the Seaside Course at the Sea Island Golf Club on St. Simons Island. Information: www.mcgladreyclassic.com

NOVEMBER

Nov 4     First Friday - Visit the shops and galleries of Historic Downtown Brunswick. "He Said Beer, She Said Wine" tastings at select shops, live music at various locations and monthly art exhibit opening at Art Downtown/Gallery 209. 5:00 to 8:00 pm, Newcastle Street. Information: 912-265-4032 or www.brunswickgeorgia.net

Brunswick Tree Lighting Festival

Nov 5-6     Antique Show and Sale - Vendors from throughout the Southeast offer antiques, collectibles and craft items. Postell Park, Beachview Drive in Pier Village – St. Simons Island. Information: 912-264-3254 or www.stsimonsantiqueshow.com

Nov 10-12     Scribblers Retreat Writers Workshop - Multi-day writers workshop features regional and nationally known writers, discussing a range of topics and genres. King and Prince Beach and Golf Resort, St. Simons Island. 800-996-2904 or www.scribblersretreatwritersconference.com

Nov 25     Brunswick Tree Lighting Festival - Downtown Brunswick, 6:30 pm. Information: 912-265-4032 or visit www.downtownbrunswickga.com

Community Christmas Tree
Credit: Jekyll Island Authority

TBA     Jekyll Island Community Christmas Tree Lighting Festival - Celebrate the arrival of the holiday season with live entertainment, children’s activities, food and fun for the entire family, including a visit by Santa and Mrs. Claus. Contact: 912-635-3636 or visit www.jekyllisland.com

DECEMBER

Dec 2     First Friday - Visit the shops and galleries of Historic Downtown Brunswick. "He Said Beer, She Said Wine" tastings at select shops, live music at various locations and monthly art exhibit opening at Art Downtown/Gallery 209. 5:00 to 8:00 pm, Newcastle Street. Information: 912-265-4032 or www.brunswickgeorgia.net

Brunswick Christmas Parade

Dec 2-3     Annual Plantation Candlelight Tour at Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation - 5556 US Hwy 17 N , Brunswick. Contact: 912-264-7333 or visit www.gastateparks.org/info/hofwyl

Dec 3     Brunswick Christmas Parade - Downtown Brunswick. Parade begins at 10:00 am along Gloucester Street. Contact: 912-265-4032 or visit www.downtownbrunswickga.com

Dec 10     27th Annual Holiday Tour of Homes and Gardens - St. Simons Island and Sea Island. Sponsored by the Cassina Garden Club of St. Simons Island. Tickets are available at local outlets or online at www.cassinagardenclub.org


TBA     20th Annual Glynn Art in the Park Holiday Market Festival - Glynn Art Association, Beachview Drive, St. Simons Island. Contact: 912-638-8770 or www.glynnart.org

TBA     Holidays in History Programs - From Nov. 25 - Jan. 1 enjoy a variety of special holiday programs and activities from Historic District light tours to special dinners, musical programs and more. Contact: 912-635-3636 or visit www.jekyllisland.com

NOTE: All programs are subject to change. Please call ahead to confirm. For an up to date listing of local events and activities, please visit our online calendar.


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