Keelie Robinson, Author at South Carolina Lowcountry

Escape to Romance: A Weekend Getaway to Beaufort, SC

May 8, 2024 | Updated on: May 30, 2024

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Categories: Beaufort County, Beaufort/Port Royal/Sea Islands, Blog

Looking to rekindle the flames of romance and create unforgettable memories with your significant other? Look no further than Beaufort, South Carolina – a charming coastal town known for its historic charm, breathtaking scenery, and Southern hospitality. A weekend getaway to Beaufort promises a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and romance that will inspire you both!

Wander Through Historic Districts

Whether you are history buffs or not, Beaufort’s historic districts exudes a timeless charm that sets the perfect backdrop for a romantic stroll. Walk hand-in-hand down shady oak-lined streets, taking in the picturesque antebellum homes, historic churches, and quaint storefronts. Stop to admire the intricate ironwork on the balconies and soak in the rich history of this charming town together.

Explore the Waterfront

Beaufort’s waterfront location offers a stunning setting for romantic moments with your special person. Take a leisurely walk along the Waterfront Park, where you can enjoy views of the boats gently bobbing in the harbor and the gentle breeze coming off the water. Grab a coffee or some ice cream at the local shops. Check out all the terrific specialty shops along Bay Street and the surrounding area. Here are some ideas.

Indulge in Lowcountry Cuisine

What is a romantic getaway without food? Beaufort is a haven for food lovers, especially those craving the authentic flavors of Lowcountry cuisine. Treat your taste buds to a culinary adventure by sampling fresh seafood, traditional Southern dishes, and local specialties at one of the town’s charming eateries. From shrimp and grits to she-crab soup, Beaufort’s dining scene is sure to delight your senses and create a memorable dining experience for you and your partner. Find your options here.

Water Water Everywhere

For a more laid-back and tranquil experience, head to Beaufort’s nearby beach at Hunting Island State Park for a day of rejuvenation. Pack a picnic and settle down on the soft sand, listening to the crashing waves and feeling the warmth of the sun on your skin.

One of the most beautiful ways to see Beaufort is by water. Consider booking a sunset, dolphin or history boat tour with groups like Coastal Expeditions South. There are other outfitters like Beaufort Kayak Tours for guided tours or kayak & SUP rentals. See more here.

Discover Hidden Gems

Beaufort is home to numerous hidden gems waiting to be explored by couples seeking adventure and discovery. Visit the historic Penn Center, one of the first schools for freed slaves, and immerse yourselves in the stories of resilience and empowerment. Explore the amazing Cypress Wetlands Rookery and Trails in Port Royal or the Pat Conroy Literary Center. Other Sights To See here.

Stay in a Charming Bed and Breakfast

Enhance the romance of your weekend getaway by staying in a charming bed and breakfast in Beaufort. Choose from historic homes converted into intimate accommodations, offering personalized service, cozy rooms, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Wake up to a delicious homemade breakfast served with a side of Southern hospitality, setting the tone for another day of romance in this enchanting town. Check out the Anchorage or the Beaufort Inn for special stays.

There are also a number of wonderful hotels, gorgeous inns, delightful vacation rentals, luxury resorts, and charming campgrounds. The choice is yours, but you can’t go wrong with whichever accommodation you pick. Take a look.

As you can tell, Beaufort, SC, and the surrounding area, is a perfect setting for a romantic weekend getaway. Whether you’re wandering through historic districts, exploring the waterfront, indulging in delicious Lowcountry cuisine, relaxing on the beach, or staying in an alluring accommodation option, Beaufort promises an unforgettable experience filled with love, adventure, and romance. Escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse yourselves in the magic of the Lowcountry, where every moment together will become a cherished memory!

Frogmore Stew ~ A SC Lowcountry Dish

January 10, 2024 | Updated on: September 27, 2024

Keelie Robinson

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Categories: Beaufort County, Beaufort/Port Royal/Sea Islands, Blog, Food & Drink

Have you ever wondered about Frogmore stew? What is in it? Do the cooks use actual frogs? We’ll answer these questions and more!

This beloved dish and Lowcountry staple has been enjoyed for generations. Despite its name, there are no frogs in Frogmore Stew! It’s a flavorful mix of shrimp, corn, potatoes, and sausage that will tantalize your taste buds.

But, where did this dish come from and how do you prepare it? Let’s take a journey through the history of Frogmore Stew and share the secrets to making this delicious dish in your own kitchen. From selecting the freshest ingredients, to adding the perfect blend of spices, we’ll show you how to create a meal that will impress your family and friends.

You can trace this dish back to the small island community of Frogmore on St. Helena’s Island. This unincorporated community is located halfway between Beaufort and Hunting Island State Park. The name Frogmore came from an early land owner, John Grayson, who named it after his ancestral home in England.

Fast forward to 1948 when the Gay Fish Company first opened its seafood market. One of the owners was Richard Gay, a local National Guardsman, while on duty in the 1960’s was tasked with preparing a cookout for his fellow guardsmen. He made this dish and coined it as “Frogmore Stew”. When he returned back to Frogmore he started putting out copies of his Frogmore Stew at his seafood market.

Frogmore Stew grew in popularity when it was featured on the cover of “Gourmet Magazine” in the 1980’s. Now this dish is so popular you can find it all along the South Carolina coast. Without further ado, let’s hop into the delicious world of Frogmore Stew and experience a taste of the South like never before!

Frogmore Stew Recipe

Ingredients

½ cup Old Bay Seasoning (or preferred seafood seasoning)

2 tablespoons salt

4 quarts of water

1 – 12 ounce can of lager beer

8 medium red potatoes, cut into quarters

2 pounds smoked sausage, cut into 2 inch lengths

3 ears of corn shucked, cut into thirds (can use frozen, make sure it is thawed)

4 pounds of large shrimp, in shells

Directions

In a very large stock pot bring the water, beer, seasoning, and salt to a boil.
Add potatoes; cook over high heat for 8 minutes
Add smoked sausage; continue to cook on high for another 5 minutes
Add corn; continue to boil for another 7 minutes
Add shrimp; cook for another 4 minutes. Do not overcook.
Drain liquid and pour the contents of pot in serving dishes or on newspaper
Sprinkle with additional seasoning if desired.

Don’t miss out on Frogmore Stew! It’s a true culinary delight!

“Keep the World Humming” ~ Kazoo Museum & Factory

January 25, 2023 | Updated on: September 27, 2024

Keelie Robinson

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Categories: Beaufort County, Beaufort/Port Royal/Sea Islands, Blog

Who knew a small pocket-sized instrument that you hum, talk, or make noise into would make a huge impact on American culture. While it’s unclear how the Kazoo came to fruition in the 1800’s, they did precisely that. There are so many theories that they run amok, but you can learn all about this impactful instrument at the Kazoo Museum & Factory.

Located in Beaufort, SC The Kazoo Museum & Factory is one of two Kazoo factories still in existence in the United States. They are open Monday to Friday from 9:00am to 5:00pm with tours running at 10:00am, 11:00am, 1:00pm, and 2:00pm. The museum is free to the public and the tour price ranges.

Upon entering the museum, it is surprising to see so many Kazoos and displays which offer interesting facts, trivia, and history.

Here you will find one of the original 1884 Kazoos and a Kookie Kombo One band, Marx 1960.

A tour is a must when visiting. It begins with a video highlighting the kazoo and then moves onto a demonstration of kazoos through history, movies, and more.

As the tour continues you go behind the scenes and catch a glimpse of their production line.

Fun fact: the factory produces 5,000 kazoos a day and 1,000,000 a year 😯.

As you complete the tour you get a shot at making your very own kazoo! There are 14 enticing body and cap colors. So, you get to choose the correct combination for you! Then you will be given the resonator, the third and final assembly piece. Without this your kazoo would not make that trademark sound we are all accustomed to. After using one of their pneumatic capping machines, you will have a fully built kazoo that will last you a lifetime!

Also, their gift shop has any accessory needed to turn your kazoo into a Wazoo, Kazoogle, Wazoogle, or an electric kazoo. The possibilities are endless!

Visit this nostalgic museum and factory to see what makes it NATURALLY AMAZING!

Historic Port Royal Foundation Museum

November 1, 2022 | Updated on: May 28, 2024

Keelie Robinson

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Categories: Beaufort County, Blog

Tucked away in a tiny corner of Port Royal is the Historic Port Royal Foundation and Museum. This quaint little place is full of history and wonder.

The museum structure has resided in its current location since 2017. It was once located in Yemassee, SC and operated as a feed store. Previous museum locations include the Scheper Store, Jernigan House, and Union Church.

The Port Royal Historic Foundation started out as the Port Royal Bicentennial Historical Committee (PRBHC) in 1976. The PRBHC was charged with planning and implementing the 1976 Bicentennial celebration of Port Royal. They also set about establishing how to preserve Port Royal’s historical data. Once the Bicentennial celebration was over, the PRBHC transformed into the Port Royal Historic Foundation in 1977.

As you step inside don’t be fooled by its size. There is a lot to learn and explore and you will find all things Port Royal.

Their exhibits range from the history of Port Royal to the natural ecology of the area. And, there are many new and exciting exhibits to come.

You will find history centered around seafood harvesting in the surrounding creeks and rivers.

On display are fossils and artifacts that were found in and around Port Royal. You’ll find Megalodon teeth, projectile points, and even fossilized whale ear drums!

Fossils and Artifacts at Historic Port Royal Foundation and Museum — Photography by Keelie Robinson

The Port Royal Foundation and Museum has big plans for upcoming exhibits. In November 2022 they will have an Indigenous exhibit and a mini exhibit about the Marine Corp. In February 2023 they will have a lecture series with geologist Will Doar, from Charleston, who will discuss the Port Royal sinkholes and how they create the Cypress Wetlands.

The Port Royal Foundation and Museum has a very extensive photo and document collection and they are working hard to get it all digitized. Also, here’s good news teachers! They welcome field trips!

Come discover this NATURALLY AMAZING museum in Port Royal.

Stoney Creek Chapel – Hampton County

September 26, 2022 | Updated on: June 17, 2025

Keelie Robinson

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Categories: Uncategorized

Hampton County is home to Stoney Creek Independent Presbyterian Chapel of Prince William Parish or Stoney Creek Presbyterian Chapel. It is a chapel located in McPhersonville, South Carolina, about 4 miles west of Yemassee. It was built about 1833 and is located off Pocotaglio Road. The chapel is the only antebellum structure in McPhersonville. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places on May 22, 2002.

Prior to the Civil War, McPhersonville was the site of many summer homes for rice planter families aiming to escape malaria on higher ground. In 1832 land was set aside for the construction of a summer chapel.

During the Civil War the chapel was used as a hospital and campsite for the Union Army. Thankfully this beautiful chapel was spared from flame.

By 1967 the chapel was no longer in use. The chapel was assigned under the custody of First Presbyterian Church of Beaufort.

The chapel, once again, was in action during the 1993 filming of Forrest Gump. This was the scene for the Four Square Gospel Church where Forrest goes to pray with the choir for shrimp.

The Greek Revival structure sits back off Pocotaligo Road.

Return to Congaree Golf Club: THE CJ CUP in South Carolina

September 14, 2022 | Updated on: May 28, 2024

Keelie Robinson

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Categories: Blog, Jasper County, Ridgeland

After the success of the Palmetto Championship in June 2021, Congaree Golf Club will once again host a PGA TOUR tournament – THE CJ CUP in South Carolina.

The front nine at Congaree Golf Club is pictured on Monday, June 6, 2022 in Ridgeland, South Carolina. (Photo by Michael Ciaglo/Congaree)

THE CJ CUP, which launched in 2017, is Korea’s first Official PGA TOUR tournament. The first three years of the event were played at Nine Bridges on Jeju Island. Because of the challenges of COVID-19, the tournament was relocated to the United States. The first two locations were Shadow Creek Golf Course (2020) and the Summit Club (2021), both in Las Vegas, NV.

This year will mark the first time THE CJ CUP will be contested in the Southeast at Congaree Golf Club in Ridgeland, SC.

THE CJ CUP will feature a 78-man field. Five players are designated by the Korea Professional Golfers’ Association and three players, of Korean nationality, from the Official World Golf Rankings. This is part of the CJ Group’s vision to support the development of professional golf in Korea. The remainder of the field will be comprised of leading players from the 2021-2022 FedExCup points list and sponsor exemptions.

Holes No. 8 and 9 at Congaree Golf Club are pictured on Monday, June 6, 2022 in Ridgeland, South Carolina. (Photo by Michael Ciaglo/Congaree)

Congaree has received numerous accolades since its opening and was named the Best New Private Golf Course of 2018 and the Best Golf Course Built This Decade (2010-2019) by Golf Digest. The club also debuted at No. 39 on Golf Digest’s ranking of America’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses. Congaree’s 8^th Hole, a 488-yard Par 4, has quickly become a favorite of players and was named on Golf.com’s Dream 18 list of the best holes in golf.

The Lodge is pictured from the 18th green at Congaree Golf Club on Saturday, June 4, 2022 in Ridgeland, South Carolina. (Photo by Michael Ciaglo/Congaree)

Congaree is the world’s first philanthropic golf club. Their mission is “to positively impact the lives of young people locally and around the globe by providing educational and vocational opportunities through the game of golf.”

Congaree Foundation’s signature event, the Global Golf Initiative (CGGI) provides underserved and well-deserving high school students, who aspire to play collegiate golf, with the highest level of athletic and academic consulting.

During the one-week program, CGGI participants receive intensive training from educators, guidance counselors and golf instructors, leaving them better prepared for the college admissions process and identifying which schools will be the best for them. While staying at Congaree, students learn about test-taking strategies, goal setting, and resume building as well as NCAA regulations, athletic-academic balance, and how to communicate with coaches. Since its inception in 2017, 138 students from around the world have gone through CGGI, with nearly all of them going on to attend college through a combination of academic and athletic scholarships. Additionally, 48 students have gone on to play college golf at schools like University of Texas, University of Nebraska, College of Charleston, and Elon University.

Hole No. 8 is pictured at Congaree Golf Club on Monday, June 6, 2022 in Ridgeland, South Carolina. (Photo by Michael Ciaglo/Congaree)

Congaree Foundation also works extensively in the Lowcountry to expand access to the game of golf and to address critical needs in the community.

The historic Sergeant Jasper Golf Club in Ridgeland was acquired by the Foundation in 2021. Since then, Congaree Foundation has worked to revitalize The Sarge, as it’s known locally, in order to provide a quality public course for the community and new home to area high school golf teams. In 2018, Congaree launched a youth golf instruction program at Ridgeland-Hardeeville High School that has introduced hundreds of students to the game.

Congaree Foundation also works extensively with the Lowcountry Food Bank and Boys & Girls Club of Jasper County. In 2020, the Congaree Career Launch program was established to connect underserved youth in Jasper County to careers and educational pathways that lead to economic stability and future success. Funded by Congaree Foundation, the program will support access and exposure to workforce opportunities in industries represented in the Lowcountry region.

The back nine at Congaree Golf Club is pictured on Sunday, June 5, 2022 in Ridgeland, South Carolina. (Photo by Michael Ciaglo/Congaree)
2022 Congaree Global Golf Initiative

THE CJ CUP in South Carolina will be contested October 17-23, 2022.

For more information about THE CJ CUP at Congaree Golf Club, volunteer opportunities, and tickets please visit PGATOUR.com.

For more information about the South Carolina Lowcountry and planning your visit click here.

Beaufort, SC, approximately 28 miles from Congaree Golf Club.

Bluffton, SC, approximately 28 miles from Congaree Golf Club.

Walterboro, SC, approximately 36 miles from Congaree Golf Club.

While in the area stop by the Lowcountry Visitor Center. Our knowledgeable staff will be delighted to share local insight in navigating the area that is south of Charleston and north of Savannah.

Get Away from the Everyday: Little Hunting Island

August 24, 2022 | Updated on: May 28, 2024

Keelie Robinson

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Categories: Beaufort County, Beaufort/Port Royal/Sea Islands, Blog, Outdoor Activities, Parks

Hunting Island State Park is the perfect get away from the everyday. No matter if you go there to camp, stay in their cabin, or visit for a day. All your cares will disappear.

I recently did just that! I spent an afternoon walking a small portion of their Little Hunting Island and it did not disappoint!

As I trekked this amazing landscape, I found myself not knowing where to look.

I was dropped off by boat from Fripp inlet and started my expedition. Immediately, I was astonished by the sand rippling over the beach and it abruptly transported me to another realm. Watching the wind and sand renewed my spirit and made me think “What else does this island have in store for me?”

rippling sand on Hunting Island — Video: Keelie Robinson

I looked up from the sandy phenomenon and spotted a Loggerhead sea turtle nest. I slowly meandered over and marveled at the care that is taken to protect our state reptile. Precautions were put in place in 1978 as Loggerhead sea turtles became classified as threatened, and thus were protected under the Endangered Species Act of 1973.

Continuing my expedition, I headed north. In the distance I could see the “Boneyard”. The once mighty but now sun and wind bleached trees stand as sentinels of times long ago.

boneyard hunting island — Photography: Keelie Robinson

I looked around as Mother Ocean nonchalantly creeped in to reclaim what is hers.

hunting island boneyard — Video: Keelie Robinson

The mighty sentinels standing in her way entertained a waltz as her waves crash into them.

I walked a little further and heard a chirping melody. As I looked up I spotted, in a lonely tree, a distinctive stick nest being tended by a mating pair of Ospreys.

mating ospreys on hunting island — Photography: Keelie Robinson

I turned and spied a squadron of pelicans flying in formation like the Marine Corps Air Station pilots of nearby Beaufort.

squadron of pelicans on hunting island — Video: Keelie Robinson

I started walking back and was surprised even more by the setting sun over the lagoon and the maze of trees I had to traverse.

sunset over lagoon on hunting island — Photography: Keelie Robinson

Again, Mother Ocean dazzled me as she continued her leisurely traipse inland.

Another sea turtle nest caught my eye.

sea turtle nest on hunting island — Photography: Keelie Robinson

Alas, my boat awaits.

fripp inlet on hunting island — Photography: Keelie Robinson

Anchors away.

Little Hunting Island was created naturally by hurricanes Matthew and Irma. The breach of the ocean caused this section to be cut off from the main island. It is accessible by the Nature Center Scenic Trail (0.7 miles) that connects with the Little Hunting Island Loop Trail (0.5 miles) or Breach Trail (0.2 miles).

South carolina state parks map — Image: South Carolina State Parks

This Lowcountry island’s beauty and serenity is NATURALLY AMAZING.

A Menagerie of Art: South Carolina Artisans Center

August 10, 2022 | Updated on: May 28, 2024

Keelie Robinson

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Categories: Arts/Culture/History, Blog, Colleton County, Walterboro

Are you looking for an extraordinary piece of artwork for you or someone special? Look no further than South Carolina Artisans Center.

Located in the heart of Walterboro the South Carolina Artisan Center has something special for you. No matter your budget or how large or small the piece, you will surely find that one of a kind gem here.

Art at SC Artisans Center — (Photography: Keelie Robinson)

The South Carolina Artisans Center did not start out in the eight room Victorian house they use now. Beside their current location you can see their original small house. It was from this humble abode they formed in 1994. It served as their initial base of operations for thirteen years while they began to sell artwork. Their inventory soon grew larger than this small facility could hold. After contemplation and considering a relocation close to Interstate 95, they decided to keep their center downtown and add on to the old Victorian next door. The South Carolina Artisans Center now uses it to serve as the epicenter of commerce you see today.

(Left Picture – Original House, Right Picture – Current House; Photography: Keelie Robinson)

Upon arriving at the South Carolina Artisans Center you enter the driveway and parking can be found behind the house. At this old Victorian, as in true southern hospitality, good friends enter through the backdoor.

When crossing that threshold you’ll be amazed at the sights. There is more artwork than one could possibly take in. You’ll see artwork made out of wood, metal, pottery, textiles, glass, and far more.

artwork made of wood, pottery, metal — (Photography: Keelie Robinson)

Here’s a fun fact!! The South Carolina Artisans Center became the Official Folk Art and Craft Center of South Carolina in 1998 as designated by our state legislators.

official folk and art center of south carolina — (Photography: Keelie Robinson)

All of the 200 plus artists featured here are residents of South Carolina. Also, you will find an artist featured from 35 out of our 46 South Carolina counties.

South Carolina based artists — (Photography: Keelie Robinson)

In order to be a featured artist, one must go through a two step review process. The first is submitting five images of the proposed piece of work to the panel. If approved an artist must personally come in with their piece for a second review. Pieces are only accepted in March and September, so make sure to see their website for more details.

become a featured artist at south carolina artisans center — (Photography: Keelie Robinson)

If an artist is selected they will get to showcase their artwork and place it up for sale through consignment.

showcase your art at south carolina artisans center — (Photography: Keelie Robinson)

When entering, as per usual in our SC Lowcountry, expect to be greeted with a warm smile and a friendly welcome. Some days you can even find local artists stocking their masterpieces. Make sure to take your time and walk through every room. You don’t want to miss that one piece calling your name!

stained glass art of sail boat — (Photography: Keelie Robinson)

While looking around I found a hand painted piece of art I just had to have! I grabbed my new found treasure and drifted over to the sales clerk. While she was ringing me up she gave me a brief biography of the artist. I was in awe of her knowledge, the details, and the narrative she painted of my purchase. (🤭 pun intended y’all!) It made my purchase fun and super personal.

learn about south carolina artists — (Photography: Keelie Robinson)

Big things are coming! In a few short years the South Carolina Artisans Center will be celebrating 30 years. They are planning a shindig to celebrate the occasion. Also, they’re looking to expand their horizon with regular events. As of now they have the Artist Handmade Series. It happens every third Saturday of the month and allows folks to come chat with the artist.

artist handmade series at south carolina artisans center — (Photography: Keelie Robinson)

I can’t wait to see what the future holds and to watch how they grow more NATURALLY AMAZING!

South Carolina Lowcountry: What is it all about?

August 3, 2022 | Updated on: May 28, 2024

Keelie Robinson

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Categories: Arts/Culture/History, Beaufort County, Beaufort/Port Royal/Sea Islands, Blog, Bluffton, Colleton County, Daufuskie Island, Destinations, Edisto Beach, Food & Drink, Hampton, Hampton County, Hardeeville, Hilton Head Island, Jasper County, Outdoor Activities, Parks, Ridgeland, Walterboro

What is the meaning of Lowcountry? Merriam Webster defines it as “: a low-lying country or region especially: the part of a southern state extending from the seacoast inland to the fall line.” South Carolinians define it as a geographical location and cultural mindset. But for me… It is more than that!

It’s Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton, and Jasper, the four counties that make up the SC Lowcountry Tourism area. These four counties offer a myriad of unbelievable experiences for all.

On any given day in lowcountry you can:

Take a walk under the old oak trees covered in Spanish moss.

Feel the sand between your toes as you enjoy our gorgeous beaches.

child playing on beach with bubbles — (Photography: Lowcountry Tourism Commission)

Pedal your way around our lush naturescapes.

bike through sc lowcountry — (Photography: Lowcountry Tourism Commission)

Soak up some history at one of our many museums, former plantations, or historical churches and structures.

historical churches of sc lowcountry — (Photography: Keelie Robinson)

Become one with nature as you spy an alligator, deer, or Great Blue Heron paddling down a lazy Lowcountry river.

kayaker on lowcountry river — (Photography: Lowcountry Tourism Commission)

Stroll along our beaches as you scavenge for shark teeth.

shark teeth found in sc lowcountry — (Photography: Lowcountry Tourism Commission)

Immerse yourself in the hunt for the next big fish.

fisherman in sc lowcountry — (Photography: Lowcountry Tourism Commission)

Step off the beaten path to find our numerous hidden gems.

sunset in sc lowcountry — (Photography: Lowcountry Tourism Commission)

Window shop our local boutiques and stores.

shopping in boutiques of sc lowcountry — (Photography: Lowcountry Tourism Commission)

Spy an array of birds in our Wildlife Refuges and Wildlife Management Areas

bird watchers in sc lowcountry — (Photography: Lowcountry Tourism Commission)

Meander along our waterfront parks.

water front park in sc lowcountry — (Photography: Lowcountry Tourism Commission)

Savor a bounty of renowned local cuisine fresh from the sea and our nearby farms.

fresh local food in sc lowcountry — (Photography: Lowcountry Tourism Commission)

Unwind and relax as you revel in a lowcountry sunset.

couple relaxing sc lowcountry — (Photography: Lowcountry Tourism Commission)

Welcome our lowcountry culture into your heart and mind as you are transported back in time.

culture of sc lowcountry — (Photography: Lowcountry Tourism Commission)

Come along and we’ll explore this region, south of Charleston and north of Savannah, to find what makes the SC Lowcountry NATURALLY AMAZING!

Lowcountry Tabby Construction

May 24, 2022 | Updated on: May 28, 2024

Keelie Robinson

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Categories: Arts/Culture/History, Beaufort County, Beaufort/Port Royal/Sea Islands, Blog, Daufuskie Island, Edisto Beach, Hilton Head Island, Uncategorized

*Tabby was used for many construction projects. Walls were built to surround gardens and cemetery plots, as well as foundations and entire buildings. Photos by Carmen Pinckney.*

Beaufort and its surrounding sea islands are home to the largest number of tabby structures in America. Early settlers in this coastal region built structures from materials that were readily available. Oyster shells were abundant along the shorelines. Wood was available in the forests. They were both put to good use.

*Tabby construction is very sturdy and stands the test of time. Photos by Carmen Pinckney.*

Tabby is a type of early concrete that is made from mixing lime, sand, and oyster shells. The oyster shells were burned and mixed with sand and lime, then poured into forms to create walls and foundations that can still be seen in Beaufort today. Bricks were also formed from tabby and used for all manners of construction.

*The Beaufort sea wall photos by Carmen Pinckney.*

Beaufort’s sea wall was made from tabby. The exact date of the sea wall is undetermined. It was built to protect the low-lying area from high tides.

*Fort Frederick tabby construction is preserved as the Fort Frederick Heritage Preserve. Photos by Carmen Pinckney.*

Fort Frederick was built by the British in 1730 to protect Beaufort’s Port Royal Sound. It was constructed of tabby. This is the oldest example of tabby in the country. The fort is preserved as the Fort Frederick Heritage Preserve and can be visited.

*The Tabby Manse and Beaufort Arsenal are great examples of the sturdiness of tabby construction. Photos by Carmen Pinckney.*

Tabby Manse, located on Bay Street is made from tabby walls that are two-feet thick. The Beaufort Arsenal is also made of tabby, but it is protected under layers of stucco. Originally built in 1795, the arsenal was rebuilt in 1852 and renovated in 1934. It is now the Beaufort Visitor Center and Museum.

*St Helena’s Episcopal Church walls are covered in tabby. Photos by Carmen Pinckney.*

St Helena’s Episcopal Church cemetery is surrounded by tabby walls. Many of the family plots are surrounded by smaller tabby enclosures. The church was constructed in 1842.

*The foundation of the John Mark Verdier House was built of tabby. Visitors to Bay Street can take a peak at tabby up close. Photos by Carmen Pinckney.*

Many of the buildings along Bay Street were constructed using tabby. The foundation of the John Mark Verdier House is one example. Built in 1804, tabby construction can be seen on the first floor. The house is open as a museum. There’s an example of exposed tabby between two buildings in an alley on Bay Street that gives a close-up view of the materials that are combined to create the structure around 1760.

*Old Sheldon Church brick walls were once clad in tabby stucco. Photos by Carmen Pinckney.*

Beaufort County’s Old Sheldon Church Ruins show an example of tabby used as stucco to cover bricks. Built in 1751, the church was burned during the Revolutionary War, rebuilt, then dismantled after the Civil War.

*St. Helena’s Chapel of Ease was built almost entirely of tabby. Photos by Carmen Pinckney.*

Located on St. Helena Island, the Chapel of Ease is an excellent example of exposed tabby construction. Built in the mid 1700s, the tabby and brick is all that remains of a church that served the families of the island plantations. After the Civil War the church was used to educate freedmen. The church was destroyed by fire in 1886.

*Bleak Hall Plantation’s tabby ice house, garden shed and barn still stand. Photos by Carmen Pinckney.*

Edisto Island’s Botany Bay Wildlife Management Area is the home to the tabby ruins of Bleak Hall Plantation. Three Gothic Revival buildings are all that exist of the once sprawling plantation. A white, wooden ice house was constructed on a tabby foundation. A gardener’s shed and tabby barn also remain. Botany Bay WMA is open to the public.

*Haig Point slave cabin ruins are preserved and protected. Photos by Carmen Pinckney.*

Daufuskie Island’s Haig Point tabby ruins are among some of the best examples of tabby constructed slave quarters remaining in Beaufort County. Built around 1826, three of the best-preserved tabby walled, single slave dwellings are protected in the Haig Point development.

*The Stoney-Baynard ruins are accessed via Sea Pines Plantation. Photos by Dynamic Vision, Lora Rickard and Paige Wood.*

The Stoney-Baynard Plantation Ruins can be found in Sea Pines Plantation. Ruins of the tabby plantation house and the foundations of two slave cabins can be visited, along with the kitchen chimney. The house was built around 1840 and destroyed by fire in 1867.

*Fish Haul ruins images by Cheryl Warren.*

All that remains of Fish Hall Plantation is three standing chimneys from slave cabins. This tabby is a little different. It contains clam shells in addition to oyster shells. Fish haul Plantation was built in 1762. The property was captured by Union forces during the Civil War and a portion was given to former c=slaves to develop the town of Mitchelville, the nation’s first freedmen’s village.

Sea Wall – Bay Street between Carteret and New Streets
Ft. Frederick – 601 Old Fort Road, Beaufort
Tabby Manse – Bay Street, Beaufort
Beaufort Arsenal – 713 Craven Street, Beaufort
St. Helena’s Episcopal Church 505 Church Street, Beaufort
John Mark Verdier House – 801 Bay Street, Beaufort
Alley Tabby – 715 Bay Street, Beaufort
Old Sheldon Church Ruins – Old Sheldon Road, Yemassee
St. Helena Chapel of Ease – 17 Lands End Road, St. Helena Island
Bleak Hall Plantation Tabby Ruins – 1066 Botany Bay Rd, Botany Bay WMA, Edisto Island
Haig Point – Daufuskie Island
Stoney-Baynard Plantation Ruins – 87 Plantation Drive, Sea Pines Plantation, Hilton Head Island
Fish Haul Plantation Ruins – 70 Baygall Road, Hilton Head Island

Author: Keelie Robinson

Escape to Romance: A Weekend Getaway to Beaufort, SC

Wander Through Historic Districts

Explore the Waterfront

Indulge in Lowcountry Cuisine

Water Water Everywhere

Discover Hidden Gems

Stay in a Charming Bed and Breakfast

Frogmore Stew ~ A SC Lowcountry Dish

Have you ever wondered about Frogmore stew? What is in it? Do the cooks use actual frogs? We’ll answer these questions and more!

Frogmore Stew Recipe

Ingredients

Directions

“Keep the World Humming” ~ Kazoo Museum & Factory

Historic Port Royal Foundation Museum

Stoney Creek Chapel – Hampton County

Return to Congaree Golf Club: THE CJ CUP in South Carolina

Get Away from the Everyday: Little Hunting Island

A Menagerie of Art: South Carolina Artisans Center

South Carolina Lowcountry: What is it all about?

Lowcountry Tabby Construction

See what our visitors love about the
SOUTH CAROLINA LOWCOUNTRY

Use the #hashtag #sclowcountry to get your image featured!

Escape to Romance: A Weekend Getaway to Beaufort, SC

Wander Through Historic Districts

Explore the Waterfront

Indulge in Lowcountry Cuisine

Water Water Everywhere

Discover Hidden Gems

Stay in a Charming Bed and Breakfast

Frogmore Stew ~ A SC Lowcountry Dish

Have you ever wondered about Frogmore stew? What is in it? Do the cooks use actual frogs? We’ll answer these questions and more!

Frogmore Stew Recipe

Ingredients

Directions

“Keep the World Humming” ~ Kazoo Museum & Factory

Historic Port Royal Foundation Museum

Stoney Creek Chapel – Hampton County

Return to Congaree Golf Club: THE CJ CUP in South Carolina

Get Away from the Everyday: Little Hunting Island

A Menagerie of Art: South Carolina Artisans Center

South Carolina Lowcountry: What is it all about?

Lowcountry Tabby Construction

See what our visitors love about the SOUTH CAROLINA LOWCOUNTRY

Use the #hashtag #sclowcountry to get your image featured!

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See what our visitors love about the
SOUTH CAROLINA LOWCOUNTRY