Thomas Spalding, an enthusiastic agriculturalist who operated Sapelo Island as a plantation in the early 19th century, had about 400 workers on the island. Spalding had many slaves brought in from nearby Charleston, South Carolina and the West Indies. When freed, they established several settlements around the island, including Hog Hammock. Now a small community of descendents of slaves who worked on the various Sapelo plantations, Hog Hammock is one of the few surviving sites on the south Atlantic coast of ethnic African-American culture. Residents here still carry on the community traditions and values of over 200 years of life on Sapelo, maintaining cultural ties to the history of Sapelo and the Georgia tidewater region.

LOCATION

Sapelo Island, GA 31327

ADDRESS

Sapelo Island National Estuarine Research Reserve
P.O. Box 19
Sapelo Island, GA 31327

TELEPHONE

(912) 485-2251

CLIMATE, RECOMMENDED CLOTHING

Summers are hot and humid. Winters are mild and normally pleasant. Recommend light clothing April to November. Inspect repellent recommended in spring, summer and fall.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The Sapelo Island National Estuarine Research Reserve enables visitors to experience virtually every facet of a typical barrier island natural community. Exhibits and displays at the Long Tabby Interpretive Center bring to life both the natural and cultural history of Sapelo Island, while public tours enable the visitor to experience Hog Hammock, the University of Georgia Marine Institute and the Coffin-Reynolds mansion. Click here for more information on Sapelo Island, including visitation arrangements to Hog Hammock.

In addition to the Reserve, more information is available from the McIntosh County Chamber of Commerce at the Darien Welcome Center. Call (912) 437-6684.