Hilton Head Island Historical Sites
Hilton Head Island is rich with historical sites that showcase the island’s Lowcountry heritage and cultural roots. Visitors can explore landmarks tied to the Gullah community, discover Civil War-era forts, and walk through preserved sites that tell the story of Hilton Head’s unique past. Museums and guided tours provide deeper insight into the island’s role in American history, while historic neighborhoods highlight architecture and traditions that have shaped the region. From cultural festivals to preserved landmarks, Hilton Head Island historical sites offer an authentic connection to history within a stunning coastal setting.
Hilton Head Island
Mitchellville Freedom Park
This historic site honors the first self-governed town of formerly enslaved people in the United States. Established in 1862 during the Civil War, it features interpretive displays, walking trails, and waterfront views that make it both educational and moving.
Fort Mitchel
Located within Hilton Head Plantation, this preserved earthen fortification was built by Union troops during the Civil War to protect Port Royal Sound. Visitors can walk the remains and experience the strategic importance of the site in the 1860s.
Baynard Plantation Ruins
Found in Sea Pines, these tabby concrete ruins are all that remain of a pre-Civil War plantation home. Interpretive signs share the history of the family who lived here and the enslaved people who built and worked the land.
The Lowcountry’s beauty is more than coastal views and moss-draped oaks. Hilton Head Island and Bluffton are steeped in stories that span Native American heritage, the Gullah culture, the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, and the preservation efforts that continue today. Exploring these sites offers a deeper connection to the area and a greater appreciation for the land, the people, and the traditions that shaped it.
Bluffton
Heyward House Museum and Welcome Center
Built in 1841, the Heyward House is one of only eight antebellum homes remaining in Bluffton. Guided tours give insight into life before and after the Civil War, along with the town’s journey from a quiet riverside settlement to a vibrant community.
Church of the Cross
Overlooking the May River, this Gothic Revival church built in 1857 is an architectural gem and a beloved Bluffton landmark. Its setting is as breathtaking as its history.
Historic Old Town Bluffton
The heart of Bluffton’s charm, Old Town is filled with preserved buildings, historic markers, and walkable streets that invite exploration. The area blends history with modern-day art galleries, shops, and cafés.
Experiencing History in the Lowcountry
Exploring Hilton Head and Bluffton’s historic sites is more than a lesson in the past. It is a reminder of the resilience, artistry, and cultural richness that define the Lowcountry. From centuries-old ruins to preserved waterfront towns, these places keep the stories alive for future generations.