Did you know Hampton was once the sight of a German Prisoner of War campsite??? Several POW camps were established in South Carolina during World War II. In 1942 America found itself the captor of 275,000 German and Italian soldiers. They were put to work on farms across the south. Hampton’s POW Camp was in operation from 1943-1946. 250 prisoners captured from North Africa were held here. POWs lived in tents with wooden floors or wooden barracks. The Hampton Armory was located across the street and housed the US Army officers in charge of the camp. POWs worked 8-10-hour days harvesting peanuts, cutting pulpwood or at the Plywoods-Plastics Corporation. They were paid 25 to 80 cents a day in script which they spent in the camp store.
Several prisoner-of-war camps were established in South Carolina to house captured Germans. This is the street of a camp in Hampton, photographed around 1944. Courtesy of Mildred B. Rivers.
Over the three years of activity at the camp, prisoners captured in Italy and France were brought to Hampton. The only thing remaining of the camp today is a historical marker that marks the spot. One must wonder if any of the souls who died here roam the grounds of Hampton, looking for a way home???
Hampton County Museum at the Old Jail image by Carmen Pinckney.
Hampton is home to another particularly eerie building. The Hampton County Jail was built in 1878 to house inmates while they awaited trail. Those accommodated here were only supposed to be guests of the facility for 48 hours or less. Many unfortunate souls were forced to stay in the cramped and inhumane building for much longer.
Hampton County Jail image from SC Archives.
The first floor served as living quarters for the jailer and his family, along with one cell that was reserved for white women. In the 1960s, two rooms were converted into four cells to accommodate more “guests”.
Hampton County Jail image from SC Archives.
The heavily reinforced upstairs was reserved for all other visitors. Seven cells occupied this floor, all sharing the same latrine. Although the ceilings were ten feet high, the cage containing the prisoners was only seven feet. In the 1960s, the cells were divided into more cells.
Hampton County Jail image from SC Archives.
According to a 1916 report from the State Board of Charities and Corrections, the conditions at this jail were very unsanitary. The building had very poor ventilation and the floors were only cleaned three times a year. Inmates with tuberculosis and syphilis shared quarters, bedding and eating utensils with healthy cellmates. Bed linens were only washed once or twice a year. One prisoner froze to death while incarcerated. By 1919 the jail was rated as the worst jail in the state. A new jail was built in 1976 and this building would no longer be used to hold prisoners. Today it houses the Hampton County Museum. If you’re brave, go visit the old jail and see if you can run across the spirit of the poor soul that froze to death in his jail cell.
Thankfully, today is a new day and things like this don’t happen very often in the modern world. Humanity has come a long way. There’s nothing left of the POW camps and the Old Jail is now a museum. You can visit… if you dare!
Jacksonboro Light image created by Carmen Pinckney.
Beaufort isn’t the only Lowcountry town with a famous light. The Jacksonboro Light is a scary destination east of Walterboro. A drive down Parker’s Ferry Road is an experience that most local teens make multiple times on dark, spooky evenings. Here’s the story of the Jacksonboro Light.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LQzvdsDJELI
Long ago, the young daughter of the local preacher went missing along Parkers Ferry Road. Her father searched throughout the night, using a lantern for light. Some say he was struck and killed by a car. Others report he was hit by a train. To this day, his form can be seen wandering along the dark and desolate road, swinging the lantern, and looking for his daughter. Locals claim if you park along the road and flash your headlights five times, you will hear the distant sound of a train and his ghostly lantern will appear from the darkness.
Cottageville Cemetery image created by Carmen Pinckney.
Cottageville is a tiny town in Colleton County that lies on HWY 17-A. The community cemetery is reported to be one of the most haunted cemeteries in the state. It was built on donated land and bodies were moved here in the 1880s. Others were added over the years. The oldest remains and tombstone that was moved to the cemetery belong to Daisy Eleanor Ackerman, who was butted to death by a goat when she was just an infant. According to legend, if you drive around the cemetery three times, then park in the middle and flash your lights three times, you will awaken the dead. Ghostly figures will crawl from the earth and roam throughout the hallowed grounds.
Edisto Island is home to one of the oldest Presbyterian churches in the country. Established in 1685, the churchyard is home to some very historic graves dating as far back as 1787. The church building that is in use today was constructed in 1831. Union troops occupied the island during the Civil War, forcing residents to flee. The Freedmen remained on the island and used the church during Reconstruction.
Legare Mausoleum image by Carmen Pinckney.
The church graveyard contains the Legare Mausoleum. Visitors will notice that the beautiful final resting place is missing its door. That’s because the ghost that haunts the cemetery won’t leave the door alone!
Legare Mausoleum image by Jessie Pinckney Webster.
Julia Seabrook Legare died in 1852 at the tender age of 23. Wife of John Berwick Legare and mother to Hugh, Julia was the first to be buried in the family crypt. She succumbed to a feverous diphtheria and was pronounced dead by the family physician. Julia was placed in the mausoleum and sealed inside behind a marble door. Tragically, her six-year-old son Hugh died two years later in 1854. When the door was opened, Julia’s body was found by the mausoleum door, having woken up from a deep coma. It was discovered that she died a second time trying to scratch her way out. After the horrific discovery was made, family members reburied her and once again sealed the door shut. The next morning the door was found open again. This happened several more times before the family, realizing it was Julia’s spirit opening the door, decided to leave the crypt open. By 1856, John died and joined his family in the crypt.
Legare Mausoleum image by Carmen Pinckney.
Several methods were used over time to try to secure the door before the family finally gave up. Chains, locks, bricks and concrete were used, but the ghost of Julia would not let the door remain closed. Some believe Julia is standing guard, making sure no other family member is buried alive.
Four ghostly images were altered for your enjoyment! Did you find them? Happy Halloween! Stay tuned for the fourth installment of the Lowcountry Ghost Stories. Up next Hampton!
Part 2 – The Haunting of Bluffton, Hilton Head and Daufuskie
Photo by Patricia Given.
Lowcountry Ghost Stories Part 1 discussed the spooky stories of Beaufort and the Sea Islands. This installment will focus on southern Beaufort County, particularly Bluffton, Hilton Head and Daufuskie.
Squire Pope Carriage House pen and ink drawing by Doug Corkern.
Bluffton also has its share of spooky stories. Much of the town was burned in 1863 during the Civil War, including the Bluffton summer home of Squire William Pope of Coggins Point Plantation. This wealthy Hilton Head family spent the summers on the bluff of the May River across from Cross Episcopal Church.
The Squire Pope Carriage House is currently being restored by the City of Bluffton. Photo by Bluffton Today.
Following the war, Mrs. Pope and her daughter returned to Bluffton in a state of destitution. They came back to find their home burned, but the carriage house and a smaller outbuilding had survived. They spent the remainder of their days in this structure. It has been said that on a full moon, candles can be seen burning inside the abandoned summer home. The Town of Bluffton is currently working to restore this house.
Sarah Hooks House watercolor by Doug Corkern.
Old Town Bluffton’s Sarah Riley Hooks House is another dwelling that has a haunted past. Sarah was a retired public health nurse and daughter of a prominent Blufftonian. Her son Tony became a famous musician as the lead guitarist for Sly and the Family Stone and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee.
The Sarah Hooks House as it stands today. Photo by jiaxingexpress.
Tony answered knocks on the door one early morning in 1988, He was shot in the chest with a shotgun. Rumor has it, he was killed in a lover’s quarrel. The shooter was caught and arrested in Savannah, but the motive and gun were never discovered. The accused was a Hilton Head real estate agent and trumpet player. He was charged but found innocent by reason of insanity at his trail. The community was in a state of shock over this senseless murder. More than 600 mourners packed the auditorium of the school named after his grandfather for the 32-year-old musician’s funeral. The house has been neglected and is inhabitable, looking very much like a haunted house. In fact, locals report when the tide is high, and the moon is full – you can hear the sounds of Tony playing his guitar from the house ruins. Feeling brave, head over to Old Town Bluffton’s Bridge Street on the next full moon and listen carefully for the faint sounds of Tony’s guitar riffs.
Baynard Tomb image by Savannah Now.
The ghost of William Baynard can be seen and heard at Zion Cemetery on Hilton Head Island. Baynard was a successful planter from Edisto Island. During a lively card game, he won the 1,000-acre Braddock’s Point Plantation in a hand of poker in 1845. He took up residence on the island and lived a prosperous life. He and his wife Catherine enjoyed plantation life. It was not common for plantation owners and their families to live on Hilton Head due to diseases like malaria and yellow fever. Baynard and his wife were an exception to that rule. They enjoyed living and entertaining at their Hilton Head plantation. Unfortunately, Catherine began having health issues and died. She was buried in the Zion Cemetery. Baynard was heartbroken and inconsolable after her death. In his guilt-ridden state, he visited her grave every day until his death 15 years later. Why did he commission such an elaborate mausoleum? Many believed he intended to bury his most cherished possessions in the tomb to carry into the afterlife. Union soldiers heard of the possible treasure during the Civil War. They broke into the tomb and emptied it of all contents. The ghost of Mr. Baynard can be seen on dark and stormy nights as he comes to visit his wife’s grave. Perhaps he’s looking for his stolen treasure as well. The graveyard where Baynard roams is located on William Hilton Parkway near the intersection of Mathews Drive. The Baynard Mausoleum is believed to be the oldest surviving intact structure on Hilton Head.
Stoney-Baynard Ruins photo by Carmen Pinckney.
The ghost of William Baynard can also be seen roaming the grounds of his former plantation. Perhaps he is looking for the spirit of his beloved wife here also. The ruins of their once-lavish home are located within the confines of Sea Pines Plantation. For a small fee, visitors can pass through the gates of Sea Pines and visit the site. The spookiest time to visit the ruins is at dusk. A small hike through a haunting forest will lead you to the skeletal remains of the once prosperous plantation house. This plantation and the surrounding trails have been labeled as the most haunted spots on the island. Visit if you dare! Baynard Plantation is located at 88 Plantation Drive.
Haig Point Lighthouse sits beautifully on the bluff of Daufuskie Island. Photo by Savannah Now.
Visitors to Daufuskie Island are greeted with the beautiful sight of the Haig Point Lighthouse. This two-story simple Victorian was designed to house the lighthouse and its keeper. It is here that we meet the ghost of Maggie…or do we?
Haig Point Lighthouse image by House Beautiful Magazine.
The story is told that Patrick Comer and his wife Bridget were the first light keepers, coming to the island in 1873. Eventually they were blessed with a daughter they called Maggie. They lived a happy idyllic life on the island, until 1886. Tragedy struck when a Charleston area 7.0 magnitude earthquake nearly destroyed the light station. The quake and subsequent aftershocks caused severe flooding on the island which lead to an explosion in the mosquito population. Maggie soon became ill and died of malaria. Patrick morns the loss so severely that he takes to his bed and dies five years later. Rumor has it that on moonlit nights visitors to the lighthouse catch the faint scent of honeysuckle, and one of the porch rocking chairs will mysteriously begin to rock on its own.
Haig Point Lighthouse porch image by Carmen Pinckney.
According to Carolyn Males of locallifesc.com, https://www.locallifesc.com/the-ghost-that-wasnt/ Maggie actually had an older sister Mary Ellen that wed in 1879 and moved to Savannah, where she had five children with her husband, Captain Walter John Thompson. Mary Ellen would later die in 1895, and by 1899, Maggie married the same Captain Thompson and raise her sister’s three surviving children. She died in 1930 at the age of 65 and is buried in Laurel Grove Cemetery. Perhaps the ghost of Maggie returns to rock on her favorite porch in the form of her younger self, to remember her happiest memories. Who knows???
Did you notice the two ghostly figures that found their way into the pictures for this post? If not, look again! They have been added for your Halloween pleasure! Stay tuned for the third installment of the Lowcountry Ghost stories. Up next, Colleton County!
From Beaufort to Walterboro, Hampton and Ridgeland, the Lowcountry has an abundance of haunted history and spooky legends. Here are some of our favorite haunted tales. Keep reading… if you dare…We will begin this 5-part series with Beaufort and its Sea Islands…
The South Carolina Lowcountry is full of fascinating history. Sometimes it’s good, sometimes is bad and sometimes it’s downright spooky! From pre-Revolutionary days to the battles of the Civil War, haints, spooks and specters have been seen roaming amongst the Spanish moss draped oaks and backroads between Charleston and Savannah.
Lands End Light photo by Carmen Pinckney.
Beaufort County has many ghostly stories to share. Traveling around the county during the day is filled with magical scenes of ancient oaks, beautiful homes, and scents of salty breezes. Navigating after dark on these haunting streets is another story. Let’s begin with St. Helena Island’s Chapel of Ease and Lands End Light legends. Travel Highway 21 through Beaufort and onto St Helena Island. Turn right onto Martin Luther King Jr Drive, then right onto Lands End Road. The Chapel of Ease will be on the left.
St. Helena Island Chapel of Ease image by Carmen Pinckney.
This tabby construction church was built around 1740 to serve the plantation population of the island. Sunday services were interrupted on November 4th, 1861 when a messenger brought news to Captain William Oliver Perry Fripp of the impending invasion by Union troops. The locals quickly evacuated the area and left the church abandoned.
Fripp Mausoleum image by Carmen Pinckney.
Edgar Fripp and his wife Eliza has been buried in a mausoleum in the chapel’s graveyard in 1852. The elaborate structure was designed and built by Charleston stone cutter WT White. The ornate vault proved too much of a temptation as Union soldiers broke into it in search of treasure. The door was ruined during the raid, then the entrance was sealed with bricks. When the workers returned the following day, the bricks were removed and neatly stacked beside the mausoleum. The workers, then, resealed the vault only to suffer the same fate the following day. Convinced that spooky, supernatural forces had been afoot, the job remained unfinished. Today the vault remains empty and the door is only half sealed with bricks.
Fripp Mausoleum interior image by Carmen Pinckney.
Visitors to the chapel have witnessed several ghostly occurrences on the property. Some feel strange sensations while walking through the graveyard. Others have reported seeing apparitions of 18th century people. A lady dressed in white and carrying a child has also been spotted on more than one occasion in the graveyard. When the wind is right, whispered prayers and singing have been known to come from the interior of the chapel. Check out this video made in 2011. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qqg4ktcyoIQ
Synthetic Lands End Light image by Barry Gooch.
If you dare – continue down Lands End Road and park between the chapel and Ft Fremont. Look for a straight stretch of highway. Park near the “hanging tree” and cut off your headlights. If you can manage to keep your eyes open, you may be visited by the ghostly Lands End Light floating slowly towards you. If you see a light approaching, wait patiently and don’t panic. The light will get bigger and dimmer as it approaches.
The Lands End Light is one of the scariest ghostly experiences in the Lowcountry. What exactly is this light??? Some locals claim it is the ghost of a Confederate soldier who was decapitated by a Union soldier in 1861. Others claim it is the ghost of a slave who was sold away from his family. Still, others believe it is the ghost of Private Frank Quigley, who was stationed at Ft Fremont. He was killed in 1910 during a brawl with locals. Whichever story you chose to believe, the light has been spotted over the years travelling up and down the road with a lantern, searching for something. If you’re lucky enough to be visited by the light, it will resemble a single headlight coming towards you.
The Lands End Light was caught on camera by author Nancy Roberts.
Author Nancy Roberts came to St. Helena’s to investigate the light for herself. She captured an image and published it in one of her South Carolina ghost story books. The story of this light draws people from all over, trying to get a glimpse of the ghostly specter. Around thirty years ago, sheriff’s deputies would patrol the street and count as many as 100 cars parked along the edge of Lands End Road looking for the light.
Many locals claim to have seen the light. Teens consider the trip to see the light as a rite of passage. Dave Hendricks of the Beaufort Gazette refers to it as “South Carolina’s own Sleepy Hollow”. Beaufort native Tripp Ballard commented on the Lands End Facebook page, “I remember my teenage years parking under the huge live oak tree. Many, many summer nights never saw a thing, but then one night about midnight…there was a distant light very bright. It could have been brights on a car coming about 1/2 mile away. As it got closer it was definitely only a single light. Well, it filled the whole two-lane road and into the ditches. We were all flipping out and it got about 100 yards away and went out just like a light switch turned it off.”
If you get lucky, you will be visited by the Lands End Light. Here’s a short video that was captured in 2010.
Historic Beaufort has more than its share of ghost stories. One of the favorites is about a little fella named Guenache and the legendary haunting of “the Castle”. The Italian Renaissance mansion sits proudly at 411 Craven Street. This is the sight of the oldest documented ghost in American history. Guenache was a dwarf court jester that accompanied Jean Ribaut when he explored the new world in the 1562. Guenache remained in Beaufort when Ribaut returned to France. It is unclear how the mischievous jester died. Some think he may have been the victim of disease. Other accounts state he was killed in a brawl or hanged. For some reason, his spirit seems to have attached itself to the Castle.
The Castle waterfront view image from Library of Congress.
The Castle was built by Dr. Joseph Johnson in the 1850s with bricks that were made on his Lady’s Island Plantation on Brickyard Point. The home was still under construction when the Civil War found its way to Beaufort. The unfinished structure was used as a military hospital and an outbuilding on the property became a make-shift morgue. It is also rumored that the grounds surrounding the house became a graveyard. These facts alone are enough to cause more than one ghost to wander the property.
Local legend says Dr. Johnson buried his wealth below the floors of this outbuilding before the family evacuated before Union occupation. After the war, the family returned, paid their taxes, assumed ownership, and completed construction of their home. Shortly after the family moved in, gardeners started reporting strange occurrences.
The Castle image by Carmen Pinckney.
Shortly after the home was complete, the gardeners reported many strange happenings. Dr. Johnson spoke of dwarf sightings outside his home. He was even spotted inside the house. Dr. Johnson’s daughter Lily saw the ghost of Guenache many times as a child. He would join her for tea parties dressed in a jester costume complete with pointy shoes and hat with bells.
During the 1920s the family held seances where Guenache would communicate in 16th Century French. He was quite vulgar and swore profusely. Visitors have reported seeing a poltergeist that would rearrange furniture or open and close doors. They would also hear the tinkling of bells.
This brief video was captured by Shoshi Parks during the 2019 Historic Beaufort Festival of Homes & Gardens.
Another favorite Beaufort story is not of a ghost, but of a doctor who was in fear of being buried alive. Dr. Perry was from a wealthy planter family who lived on St Helena Island and downtown Beaufort. During the mid-1800s, Dr. Perry spent a great deal of time treating patients during the yellow fever epidemic. Victims of this raging fever would often slip into a coma with shallow breathing that resembled death. Dr. Perry lived in extreme fear of contracting the fever and being buried alive. He instructed his relatives with these words, “If I pass away, bury me with a jug of wine, a loaf of bread and a pickax. Should I wake up and find myself inside, I shall drink the wine, eat the bread and dig myself out. “Incidentally, this is where the term “wake” comes from. After a person died, the family would hold a vigil with the body to watch or guard in case the deceased should wake from a coma.
Dr. Perry grave image by Carmen Pinckney. This view shows the bricks that were added after t=his family determined that Dr. Perry had indeed moved on to the afterlife.
Upon his death in 1845, he was placed in an above ground brick vault. The wine, bread and a pickax were buried along with the doctor. A wooden door was placed on the vault. In the instance that he awoke from a coma he would drink the wine, eat the bread, and chop his way out of his resting place. After waiting a decent amount of time and seeing no activity from the vault, his mausoleum door was sealed in brick. Dr. Perry’s mausoleum can be found in St. Helena’s Episcopal Church graveyard, directly behind the church.
Stay tuned for additional installments to this tale! Up next, Bluffton, Hilton Head Island and Daufuskie!
PS – The ghostly sights you may have noticed were fabricated for your enjoyment, with the exception of the image captured by Nancy Roberts and the video by Shoshi Parks. If you didn’t notice anything spooky, look back at the images a little more closely! Three of them contain something special just for you! Boo!
Looking to spend some time in Hardeeville? There are several attractions to keep you busy. While Savannah escaped the wrath of fire during the Civil War, Hardeeville was not so lucky. Sherman’s army started setting fire to buildings once he crossed the Savannah River. One significant building was put to use, allowing it to escape the flames of fire.
Hardeeville United Methodist Church image by Mills Morrison.
Hardeeville United Methodist Church dates back to 1860. Just after construction, the church was used as a hospital for Civil War soldiers. Due to Union occupation of the building, it was spared from fire when much of the town was burned in 1865. The bell that hangs in the belfry has some interesting history. It was taken from the last slave ship to sail up the Savannah River. A slave gallery once wrapped around the upper part of the sanctuary. It was removed in 1884. The church was beautifully restored in 1947 and is still in use with an active congregation today. The church is located at 106 Main Street in downtown Hardeeville.
Purrysburg Monument image from SC Lowcountry Tourism Commission website.
A cross-shaped marker of stone stands on a low bluff overlooking the Savannah River at the junction of Highways 34 and 203. This marks the spot of old Purrysburg. In the early 1700s, Colonel Jean Pierre Purry led a group of German and French speaking Swiss protestants to establish the Purrysburg settlement on the banks of the Savannah River. By 1736 there were 100 houses and around 450 settlers in the new town, but the settlement would soon suffer from disease and unhealthy conditions. Surviving settlers migrated to other South Carolina towns. Some even sought protection from Oglethorpe across the river in Savannah. The Purrysburg Monument was erected in the 1940’s by the Huguenot Society of South Carolina. Close by is the original cemetery, which is still in use today. The oldest tomb is dated 1781. The monument stands proudly to remind visitors of the hardy folks that struggled to put down roots, many of which went on to become prominent landowners and rice planters.
Hardeeville became an important railroad town between Charleston and Savannah. The town was originally called Hardee’s Station after its founder, White William Hardee. In the early part of the 20th century, Hardeeville became an important timbering community. The Argent Lumber Company opened in 1916, and soon started operating four railroad engines that carried timber. The town’s lumber mill became the leading employer. The industry diminished in the 1950s and ended completely in 1959.
The Argent Steam Engine “Number 7” was donated to the town of Hardeeville after the Argent Lumber Company closed. This narrow-gauge train with a balloon smokestack was built around 1910 by the H.K. Porter Company. The train is exceedingly rare and attracts tourists from across the nation. “Number 7” was used by the Argent Lumber Company to haul timber from the forest to the mill. This train engine is a wonderful relic for the logging and lumbering industry of this area. The train engine is on display at City Hall, 205 Main Street and can be viewed during daylight hours.
Is located at 1456 Red Dam Rd. The park is open from dawn to dusk daily.
Read HERE about spending a day at Sgt Jasper Park.
Image from SC Lowcountry Tourism Commission website.
Located just off Interstate 95, this 321-acre park features beautiful nature scenery. Wildlife abounds in this pine forest. An observation deck overlooking the pond is the perfect spot to locate and watch birds and other water-loving small animals. Walking trails lead visitors around a large pond which is great for fishing. Kayak and canoe rentals are also available. An 18-hole championship disk golf course is also located within the park. Dogs on leashes are welcome on the trails.
Savannah National Wildlife image by Vicky Hays.
The Savannah National Wildlife Refuge is located just outside Hardeeville on Hwy 17 between Hardeeville & Savannah. The refuge is open open daily.
Read HERE about spending time at the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge.
Read HERE about hiking at the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge.
The Savannah National Wildlife Refuge is the home of over 29,000 acres of freshwater marshes, tidal rivers and creeks and bottomland hardwoods. The refuge is located in the heart of the Lowcountry, outside Hardeeville near the Savannah River. Known for its rich flora during the summer months, the refuge supports a diverse wildlife population. During the winter months, many species of ducks migrate into the area. In the spring and fall, transient songbirds stop briefly on their journey to and from northern nesting grounds. Bald Eagles and Egrets, Kingfishers and many other fish-eating birds call the refuge home. Alligators are also in resident on the refuge.
The driving tour takes visitors through historic rice fields. It is located on Hwy 170. The Visitor Center on Hwy 17, between Hardeeville and Savannah, is open Monday through Saturday, 9:00 am – 4:30 pm. There is also a nature trail at this location.
Fall is finally here and it’s the season for catching redfish in the South Carolina Lowcountry! These fish are available year-round but tend to move from shallow water to deeper inshore waters during the fall.
Photo by Neal Kendrick of Carolina Tails Charters.
The redfish, or spottail bass is the Lowcountry inshore fisherman’s most popular gamefish. This highly sought-after saltwater fish has many names, depending on the geographic location. The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources refers to it as a red drum. Along with redfish and spottail and red drum, this fish is also known as a channel bass and puppy drum. Why did it get the name redfish? Some say it’s because of the copper color of its scales.
Image from C1 Films and Jon Halker.
Traditionally in the Lowcountry it was known as a spottail for the distinctive black spot on its tail. Sometimes the fish will have more than one spot. On rare occasions it will have no spot at all. What is the purpose of the spot? The spot resembles an eye. This trick of nature fools predators into attacking the fish from the tail, allowing it a chance to swim away from danger.
This popular gamefish is prized by inshore fishermen in the Lowcountry because it is a great fighter, and it can grow to incredible size. The South Carolina record was caught in 1965, weighing 75-pounds. Fish that size are required by law to be released. It’s the smaller fish that is the most delectable.
Even Georgia residents enjoy fishing for redfish in the South Carolina Lowcountry.
How did this fish get so many names? That is a great question. This fish has been a popular catch for anglers throughout our history. It even had more names in the 1930s than it does today. Prior to the 1930s, most Lowcountry anglers called it a channel bass. For some reason, the species was, and still is, known by one name in one locality and an entirely different one just a few miles away.
When in Edisto, get in touch with Edisto Watersports to show you the best spots to find redfish.
According to the “Woods and Waters” column from Charleston’s News and Courier, “Along much of its coastal range the fish, which we know as channel bass, is the redfish,” explained one column written in 1938. “This is the name by which it goes along the southwest coast of Florida all along the Gulf and the Texas coasts … The outstanding characteristic of this fish is the black spot, just about at the base of the caudal fin, or tail … Seen in shallow water, the tail of this fish assumes a beautiful shade of blue. In body color, the reddish cast of the scales is plainly apparent.”
Anglers can catch redfish from Lowcountry riverbanks. Photo by John Holloway.
“Drum is another name, and it is known as the branded and beardless drum. The name ‘branded’ comes from the appearance of the black spot near the tail, which is always an infallible ‘field mark’ of the fish. The real drum is a different fish, and, as some of the natural histories put it, is possessed of ‘a much larger and more resonant musical organ.’ It is known that the drum can emit sounds which are heard at a considerable distance.”
Daily redfish excursions can turn into friendly competitions. This one is a tie because one is longer and the other weighs more! Photo by Charles Pinckney.
Angler Robert S. Barnwell, Jr. offered even more colloquial names for the spot-tail in 1933. “In Virginia the bass is called red drum; in Florida red fish; in South Carolina simply bass. We divide them into three classes according to size – school-bass, stag-bass and channel-bass … we fish for school-bass in the creeks, for stag-bass in the surf, and channel-bass in the rips of harbor banks. As a rule, the school bass are below 16 inches, stag or surf bass range from 20-22 inches, and the channel bass above 36.”
This one is a beauty. Photo by C1 Films.
It doesn’t matter what you call this fish, there is no doubt about its popularity in the SC Lowcountry, where today it is widely known as the redfish. It has become so popular that a strict catch limit was put in place to keep the species at healthy numbers. In 2018 a limit of two fish per day (per angler) and six fish per boat are allowed. A keeper can only be between 15 and 23 inches long. Most anglers, however, prefer to catch and release. Redfish are a designated state gamefish, therefor if caught in South Carolina waters, redfish cannot be sold. According to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources Update to Red Drum (Redfish) Regulations (effective July 1, 2018) they may only be taken by rod & reel and gig. Restrictions on both sport and commercial fishermen allowed the species to rebuild.
Neal Kendrick of Carolina Tails Charters holds a redfish with multiple spots.
According to WRDG Chief Meteorologist and avid fisherman Riley Hale, “Redfish reach maturity around 4 years of age and once that happens, they are able to spawn. Slot redfish between 15-23 inches are less than 4 years of age and are usually the ones caught in tidal creeks and rivers. The slot limit is capped at 23 inches to protect the mature fish that spawn. During the fall, redfish spawn and can usually be found off South Carolina beaches, which makes them a prime target for anglers.” Hale also has good tips for protecting redfish during catch and release. https://www.wrdw.com/content/news/Catch-limit-on-redfish-in-South-Carolina-changes-July-1-486850941.html
Kayaking is another way to catch redfish. Photo found on meateater.com.
Redfish like to feed on crustaceans and other animals that live in the seagrass of the shallow waters. When they do this, their tails have a tendency to extend above the water in a behavior called “tailing”. When they do this, their distinctive spot can be seen on the base of its caudal fin. This is just as exciting as watching a dolphin break the surface. To see an amazing video on fishing for redfish and the tailing behavior filmed by Salt Creek Outfitters visit www.youtube.com.
Taylor Horton of Salt Creek Outfitters enjoys catching redfish.
Redfish also go by the name drum, due to the low, croaking sounds made by the male to attract females during spawning. They make these noises by contracting the muscles attached to its “swim bladder”. Redfish spawn in August and September, then the female will lay around 1.5 million eggs at a time.
A day on the water is always a good idea when catching redfish like this one! Photo by Neal Kendrick.
Redfish can be found in the SC Lowcountry year-round. For the first three years of their lives they thrive in our marshes, bays, and inlets, feeding on shrimp, fiddler crabs and small bait fish. In the fall of their fourth year they migrate offshore with spawning populations. These fish are immensely powerful and fun to catch. Anglers like to look for them tailing around grassy marsh areas during flood tides when large schools begin to form in the fall.
Photo by C1 Films.
According to Wikipedia chef Paul Prudhomme made a popular dish of Cajun-style Blackened redfish. The seasoning was then sold commercially. The dish became so popular that redfish were overfished to the point of near extinction in the 1980s. Then, in a 2009 episode of Iron Chef America, redfish was the secret ingredient for competitors, who used the fish to prepare several dishes.
Photo by Charles Pinckney
Tony Royal and Tuck Scott from Beaufort’s Bay Street Outfitters had interesting ideas regarding the difference in terminology of our local fish. According to Tony, “The origin of ‘redfish’ most likely came out of the UK, in the 1500’s where they have had a history of referring to things in nature that are red as “Red”. Red Bird, etc. Red Hair as Redhead. Some salmon in Pacific are also referred to as redfish. There is a lake in Idaho called Redfish Lake due to migration of salmon there. The origin of spottail (or spot tail) bass appears to more local, used along the SC coast in particular. It is not a bass but a red drum. There are also black drum. Smaller pinfish are also called spots. They are along our shoreline in warm months.”
Anglers of all ages enjoy catching redfish. Photo by Neal Kendrick.
Here’s Tuck’s interpretation: “The term Redfish came from Louisiana just like the term Spot tail bass came from here locally, but it is Paul Prudhomme who made it popular enough for places to use “Redfish” over other names and the proper name of Red drum. As a member of the Drum family. Red drum are the only drum that only the male drums.”
Special thanks to Suzannah Smith Miles and Riley Hale for their wonderful articles that educated me on redfish and its many names. Thanks also to Tony Royal and Tuck Scott for their insightful thoughts and Erin Weeks – Media & Communication Coordinator for the SC Department of Natural Resources – Marine Resources Division.
Forrest Gump may have been filmed over 26 years ago (in and around Beaufort), but the movie has not diminished in popularity. We often get visitors into the welcome center at Frampton Plantation House that are eager to see the local movie locations. The movie was set in Greenbow, Alabama, but was actually filmed, for the most part, in the SC Lowcountry and Savannah. Several locations are not too far from our visitors center at I-95, Exit 33 and Hwy 17. MAP TO LOCATIONS.
During the movie, Forrest is compelled to go to the Four Square Gospel Church to pray for shrimp. These scenes were filmed in the tiny area of McPhersonville, at Stoney Creek Independent Presbyterian Chapel (155 McPhersonville Rd.) This church was built in 1833 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Comparison image from Houses Then and Now website.Stoney Creek close-up image by Carmen Pinckney.Comparison image from Houses Now and Again website.Image by Carmen Pinckney.
From Frampton Plantation, turn right onto Hwy. 17 and proceed north for 1.4 miles. Turn left onto Hwy 21/ 17-A towards Walterboro. Travel 5 miles, then slow down when you see the Harold’s Country Club sign. Turn left just before this locally famous restaurant onto Pocotaligo Rd. Continue 4.2 miles until you see Sheldon Chapel on the right. (This isn’t the church from the movie, but it is also historically significant.) Turn just before it and proceed slightly farther. The road ends at the church.
Both Varnville comparison images by Houses Then and Now website.
To visit the town where Forrest grew up, head to Varnville, SC. Return to Pocotaligo Rd. and turn left. Travel 11.2 miles miles, then turn right onto Main St. When the road ends, turn right onto Hwy. 278/Gray’s Hwy. Continue for 4.1 miles. The road merges with SC 68. Continue to the left. Once you enter Varnville, turn right onto Main St.
Bluff Plantation comparison images by Houses Now and Then website.
The Gump House is no longer standing. It was built specifically for the movie. Since it was hastily built (not to code) it was dismantled after production. The entrance is still visible. It is on the 8,000-acre Bluff Plantation property. It only took two months to build the house, and only a handful of rooms were finished for filming. Turn left from Main St. and travel down SC Hwy. 68 for 15.1 miles. Take a slight right onto Connely St. in Yemassee for .2 miles. Turn left onto Hwy 17-A and follow it for 3.6 miles. Next turn right onto Combahee Rd. The entrance will be 5.3 miles further at 3547 Combahee Rd. This property is privately owned, so please be respectful. Jenny’s house was also built on this property but was destroyed for the film.
Only interior shots were used at the Colleton Civic Center.
The setting for Greenbow’s elementary school is the former Walterboro Academy. It now serves as the Colleton Civic Center. (506 East Washington Street, Walterboro.) This was the setting for the principle’s explanation of Forrest’s intelligence testing scores. From Bluff Plantation, return 5.3 miles to Hwy 17-A and turn right. Travel toward Walterboro for 11.5 miles. Take a slight right onto S. Jeffries Blvd. In 1.8 miles turn right onto Hampton St. The destination will be .4 miles away on the right.
Image from Houses Then and Now website.Image by Glenn Hanna.
After you leave this scene, head to Beaufort via Hwy 21/Carteret St. The Woods Memorial Bridge connects Beaufort to Lady’s Island. This is the scene for the running bridge interview. This is not the mighty Mississippi, but the Beaufort River. This historic swing bridge connects Beaufort to the sea islands. It is one of a handful of swing bridges that still exist in the state. It’s also the home of the annual “Run, Forrest Run 5K”.
Image by Houses Then and Now.Image by Corey Gibson.
The house where Bubba lived is next on the tour. Continue across the bridge and just over a mile. Turn left at the light onto Sam’s Point Rd. Keep going through the traffic circle (take the second exit). Stay on Sam’s Point Rd. for six miles. Turn left onto Alston Rd. 145 Alston Rd. will be on the right. This 1,240 square foot house was built in 1940. Bubba’s grave site was constructed in the back yard. This is a private residence. Please be respectful. The water adjacent to the house is the Lucy Point Creek. That’s where the majority of the shrimp boat scenes.
Comparison image by Now and Again website.Comparison image by Now and Again website.
Bubba’s momma was played by Dr. Marlena Smalls. This classically trained soprano founded Beaufort’s Gullah Festival and the Hallelujah Singers. Her singers were also featured in the movie. She is well-known for using music and stories to educate others about Lowcountry Gullah customs and beliefs.
To visit the Vietnam war scenes, return down Sam’s Point Rd. and back to Hwy 21. Turn left onto Hwy 21/Sea Island Pkwy. As you drive toward Hunting and Fripp Islands, notice the march and waterways. They should look familiar. You will also pass Gay Fish Company on the right. They supplied all the shrimp for the movie.
Image courtesy of SC Lowcountry Tourism Commission.
Their dock is also where Forrest paints ”Jenny” on his boat. The Gay Seafood boat “Miss Hilda” can be seen in the background of that scene. Docked shrimp boats paint a beautiful scene. Travel for 16.8 miles. You will drive past the entrance to Hunting Island State Park.
The boardwalk will be on the right. Park and walk along the boardwalk while you’re here. The war rescue scene that earns Forrest a medal happened inside the park at the lagoon.
The Ocean Creek Golf Course at Fripp Island was also the location for war scenes. The mountains and larger palm trees were added by special effects.
Bluffton offers free pedicab rides four days a week!
Pedicab images from Bluffton Bike Taxi website.
The Town of Bluffton has teamed up with Bluffton Bike Taxi to offer free rides four days a week! Simply park at Wright Family Park or Martin Family Park and catch a free pedicab ride into the Bluffton Historic District.
The Cottage Restaurant image from bluffton.com.Old Town Dispensary image from oldtownbluffton.com.
This is a great way to avoid finding a parking place during peak dinner hours. To hail a pedicab, simply call 843-707-6807. Signs have been installed which designate pick-up locations at the parks. Wright Family Park is located at the end of Calhoun Street. Martin Family Park can be found on Boundary Street. Both parks have ample parking.
Cross Episcopal Church is located near Wright Family Park, at the end of Calhoun Street. Image by Carmen Pinckney.Bluffton Oyster Factory is located near parking at the end of Calhoun Street. Photo by Carmen Pinckney.
This free pedicab service is a great addition to Historic Bluffton and its laid-back southern atmosphere. It is available Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, from 5-9 p.m. You can get more details about Bluffton Bike Taxi from their Instagram, Facebook, or their website.
The Garvin-Garvey House is also located near Wright Family Park. Image by Carmen Pinckney.Views of the May River can be seen at the end of Calhoun Street. Photo by Carmen Pinckney.
Bluffton Bike Taxi is the newest eco-friendly means of transportation in the historic town. Not only do they offer transportation, for a fee you can also schedule a historic tour, book a wedding, function, or private event. According to their website, “We promise to provideentertaining rides around Old Town Bluffton. Bluffton Bike Taxi drivers are trained to entertain; “Transportainment” at its finest!”
Spend the night in a converted shuttle or train car at the Point South KOA. Photos By Paul Griffin, Sr.
Looking for a fun place to camp this fall? Look no further than the Point South KOA Campground. Don’t have a camper? No problem! They have cabins as well as camp sites. The pool is available and wine is sold by the glass.
There are many cabin options. Photos by Jade Coleman and Jan T.
The Point South KOA is located in the heart of the SC Lowcountry, just off I-95, Exit 33. It is a great hub for visiting Beaufort, Bluffton, Hilton Head, Walterboro, Hampton, and Ridgeland. There are plenty of spaces for campers, or “glamp” in one of the cabins located on site. There’s even a cabin inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright.
Walk your dog to the lake or play in the dog park. Photos by Gail Hampel and Christine K.
Point South KOA Campground is pet friendly. The large dog park and Camp K-9 make travelling with your pup more fun.
Spoonbills and bald eagles are just a couple of examples of birds that can be found in the SC Lowcountry. Photos by Jim Killian.
Spend the day at the campground. Photos by Christine K, Edith Martin and Point South KOA.
For old fashioned family fun, spend the day playing at the campground. Mine for gems at the playground. Play tether ball, corn hole, horseshoes, life-size chess or Jenga. Adults can unwind with a glass of local wine, craft beer or specialty coffee from the Swimming Mermaid Coffee House located at the campground. Leave the cooking to the staff, relax, and enjoy made-to-order pizza, wings and breadsticks around a campfire.
Cabin interiors are kept immaculately clean. Photos by A. Robert, Diane Nordstrom and Point South KOA.
Camping is an experience that can be enjoyed by everyone, especially in these difficult times when families are reconnecting and spending more time together. Since most schools are operating remotely this fall, why not take a trip to explore nature, disconnect from technology and reconnect with those you love most.
Photos by J Hof, Jade Coleman, Point South KOA, Louisa Maaser, Gail Molina, Rhonda Griffin, Christine K, Timothy Alston and Wolfgang Hanko.
Point South KOA is excited to announce they have won the Trip Advisor Traveler’s Choice Award for the sixth year in a row! Make your reservations and plan a trip to the Point South KOA.
Beaufort’s Shrimp Festival celebrates the fall shrimp season and highlights the region’s culinary traditions. We invite locals and Southeastern visitors to restaurants, shops, and outdoor venues across the Beaufort region to enjoy the best of Lowcountry food and lifestyle.
Throughout Shrimp Festival season, participating restaurants region-wide feature a specially priced fresh shrimp dishes and local shops feature seafood themed promotions.
Visit our website link below for the latest information and up-to-date list of participating restaurants to sample the bounty of our Lowcountry waters and celebrate the long tradition of the shrimping industry right here in Beaufort!
Participating Restaurants:
Fat Patties – 831 Parris Island Gateway, Beaufort
Fishcamp on 11th Street – 1699 11th St, Port Royal
Madison’s – 925 10th St, Port Royal
Morgan River Grill – 100 Marina Dr, St Helena Island
Mr Seafood – 1281 Ribaut Rd, Beaufort
Old Bull Tavern – 205 West St, Beaufort
Plums – 904 Bay St, Beaufort
Salt Marsh Brewing – 831 Parris Island Gateway, Beaufort
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The Lowcountry & Resort Islands Region of South Carolina includes the four, southern-most counties in the state, Beaufort, Jasper, Hampton, and Colleton, which are bordered on the east by the Atlantic Ocean and on the west by the Savannah River and the state of Georgia.
The South Carolina Lowcountry Guidebook is filled with many things to see and do in the beautiful Lowcountry of South Carolina. Please fill out the information and we will send you a FREE GUIDE BOOK.
