Travel + Leisure named the Golden Isles as the #1 Best U.S. Islands in the 2023 World’s Best Awards. St. Simons Island offers a plethora of outdoor activities for families to enjoy together. Here are some fantastic options to consider:
BEACH EXPLORATION: We have beautiful sandy beaches perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. Take a leisurely stroll along the shore, collect seashells, build sandcastles, or simply relax and enjoy the sound of the waves.
BIKING: Explore the island’s scenic beauty by renting bicycles to travel the many bike-friendly paths and trails winding through picturesque neighborhoods, marshlands, and oak-lined streets. Exploring on two wheels is a great way for the whole family to see the sights, and our friends at Monkeywrench Bicycles are happy to set you up with bikes for a ride.
FISHING: Whether you’re an experienced angler or a novice, fishing is a popular activity on St. Simons. Cast a line from the pier, charter a boat for a deep-sea fishing, or try your luck in the island’s rivers and tidal creeks. The knowledgeable folks at St. Simons Bait & Tackle have the info you need to get you on your way, and they rent rods and reels too.
KAYAKING AND PADDLEBOARDING: Explore the island’s waterways by kayaking or paddleboarding. Glide through tranquil marshes, winding creeks, and the Intracoastal Waterway while enjoying the sights and sounds of nature. Whether you’re going for a serene solo paddle or bonding as a family, it’s an ideal way to get some outdoor exercise. Don’t have your own boat or board? Call Turtle Tides to rent; they’ll even deliver to you.
GOLFING: St. Simons is the home to world-class golf courses that cater to players of all skill levels. Spend a day on the links amidst stunning coastal landscapes and lush green fairways.
LIGHTHOUSE TOURS: Climb the 129 stairs to the top of the iconic St. Simons Lighthouse for panoramic views of the island and surrounding waterways.
OUTDOOR DINING: Enjoy a delicious meal al fresco at one of the island’s many outdoor dining venues. From seafood shacks to upscale waterfront restaurants, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Even Guy Fieri knows, Porch SSI is just one of the local eateries he’s visited recently.
With its natural beauty, diverse attractions and abundance of outdoor activities, St. Simons Island offers endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation. Just about the only thing you can’t do here is snow ski! Enjoy!
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ON THE COVER:
It’s time to grab a book, relax, and enjoy a good summer read. In this month’s feature we encourage you to explore the island through the eyes of some authors and to check out some books that feature St. Simons Island as their setting.
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From fun fiction you can pack in your beach bag to library reading programs, now is the perfect time to sail into a summer of adventure with some great books. Books allow us to escape to worlds beyond our own or to explore the one we’re in. The extra leisure hours that summer provides are ideal to help children strengthen their literacy skills and for adults to broaden their horizons and keep their minds active. Books are also a wonderful way to discover the treasure to be found within the Golden Isles.
Famed Southern author Eugenia Price first discovered St. Simons Island when she and Joyce Blackburn were returning home from a book tour in 1961. She described a night filled with an eerie “early winter darkness” as they drove “along between arching trees, their ghostly strands of gray Spanish moss waving visibly and then invisibly in the low clouds.” It was during the next day’s long drive along Frederica Road with stops to admire “the wild tangles and wonder” of the island that Price found Christ Church, the inspiration for her famous St. Simons trilogy of novels based on the lives of the Gould and Dodge families: The Beloved Invader (1965), New Moon Rising (1969) and Lighthouse (1972). Her enthusiastic research into the history of the island and its inhabitants led her to move to St. Simons in 1965 and it is here she lived until her death in 1996. She is now buried at Christ Church amongst the graves of many of the island residents she brought to life in her novels. To date, more than 40 million copies of Price’s novels, many of which were NYT bestsellers, have been sold and the St. Simons trilogy remains a popular selection at our local bookstores, the Live Oak Shop in the Golden Isles Visitors Center on St. Simons Island, and the St. Simons Lighthouse Museum Store.
Price’s books provide a perfect starting point for exploring St. Simons Island. Using the subjects of her historical stories as a guide, take the time to visit the sites where they actually took place. Of course you’ll want to begin at the St. Simons Island Lighthouse Museum, located in what is now called “Pier Village” on the south end of the island. The original lighthouse that was built in 1810 from the vision of James Gould, Price’s main character in the first book of her trilogy, Lighthouse, was destroyed during the Civil War. The majestic white tower that stands now was
reconstructed and reignited in 1872. The 104 foot-tall brick tower boasting a and is among only five lighthouses that remain in the state of Georgia and is one of only 15 in the nation that operate using an authentic, third order Fresnel lens. Take the 129 stairs up to the observation deck to get a birds-eye view of the island and spanning across to Brunswick and Jekyll Island nearby. Learn more about the history of this island icon inside the museum operated by the Coastal Georgia Historic Society that is housed in the brick building that was formerly the lightkeepers’ dwelling. You’ll also find an exhibit that highlights Lighthouse and pays homage to Price. Open 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday - Saturday and 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday.
You can continue James Gould’s journey by heading up to Cannon’s Point Preserve on the north end of the island. Once a Native American homestead, this once sandy plot that borders the Hampton River was purchased
by John Couper in 1793 and transformed into a cotton plantation. Now preserved by the St. Simons Land Trust, the property has trails and beautiful areas to view nature. The plantation’s ruins and an array of 19th century relics, like tabby fragments from Fort Frederica, are accessible by a five-mile trek from the preserve’s parking lot, where you’ll find a kiosk that provides maps. Cannon’s Point Preserve is open from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Saturday, Sunday, and Monday.
Christ Church Frederica, also on the north end of the island, is another essential stop. Price wrote of Christ Church, “No trouble believing in Eternity here.” Christ Church makes numerous appearances in Price’s novels, and, as noted earlier, she was fittingly laid to rest here in its cemetery. With its first worship service dating back to 1736, when the first English colonists led by Col. James Oglethorpe settled here, the quaint white chapel with its gorgeous stainedglass windows in its setting of live oaks and lush greenery, is at the very heart of St. Simons’ story. The deep-rooted history of this Episcopal haven and its postcard-like appearance draw tourists from near and far daily.
Gascoigne Bluff is the site where James Gould felled oaks to construct warships for
the Navy. Overlooking the Frederica River, and now one of the most serene spots on St. Simons Island’s western side, it was originally a Native American settlement here and was later used as a port for ships entering the harbor. Through the years its transformation has included a Franciscan monastery, a naval base, a cotton plantation, and a hub for transporting lumber and timber. Three small islands that formed from ballast discarded by ships dating back to the 18th century can be seen in the water across the distance from the fishing pier. It’s an ideal spot to take in a coastal sunset. Nearby the public park are the former Hamilton Plantation tabby slave cabins that were preserved and are maintained by the Cassina Garden Club.
It's easy to see why Eugenia Price was enamored with the island’s stories and its beauty. And she’s not the only author to find our island the perfect setting to weave tales.
“There is more treasure in books than in all the pirate’s loot on Treasure Island.”
~ Walt Disney
The historic site marking the Battle of the Bloody Marsh and Fort Frederica National Monument are central to Brandon Whitaker’s 2013 book, Bloody Marsh, available on Amazon.
Bloody Marsh – Brandon Whitaker Travel back in time to Colonial America! The day was supposed to be about some easy college credit for Mitch Gaines, his girlfriend Desi Hopkins and best friend Robbie Cole. While working at the annual Battle of Bloody Marsh victory celebration held at Fort Frederica on St. Simons Island, they and many others recreate the life experienced in Colonial Georgia. Yet none of them had any idea what the night would bring. A surprise discovery will lead to an adventure of a lifetime! Thrown into a world they barely understand, the three friends will soon realize that getting home may not be their most pressing concern, which would be staying alive. With the help of some new friends, a situation that has spun out of control, they all understand that they will have to step up and may make the ultimate sacrifice. None of their lives will ever be the same again.
The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort are the backdrop for children’s book, The Princess and the Crab, by Grace Gore Sturdivant, illustrated by the Golden Isles’ own ED Hose. A nod to Sturdivant’s family connection to the resort and her own love story, the book showcases the natural beauty of St. Simons Island and highlights its historic landmarks. The Princess and the Crab is not only a magical story for children but is also a keepsake for anyone who has enjoyed our charming island home.
The Princess and the Crab – Grace Gore Sturdivant
Opportunities for fun abound on St. Simons Island, but for the Princess, her vacation becomes quite lonely. She is so afraid of sharing her favorite golden beach ball that she spends much of her time all alone. Join the Princess as she
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explores this picturesque island, meets a helpful little crab, and leans valuable lessons about making friends, keeping promises, and sharing all along the way.
There are more than a dozen books inspired by St. Simons Island or set in our little Golden Isles paradise, from romance novels to thrilling mysteries and adventures. Charles Martin’s Chasing Fireflies and Karen White’s Sea Change are some older novels with familiar settings. A few more recent works are worth mentioning and would make great beach or poolside reads this summer.
Prolific author and beloved Queen of the Beach Read, Mary Kay Andrews has another New York Times bestseller on her hands with Summers at the Saint. This recently released novel recounting the adventures of widowed owner of a faded landmark hotel as she attempts to restore it to its former glory has already garnered rave reviews. Told with the warmth, humor, knack for twists, and eye for delicious detail about human nature for which Andrews is known, Summers at the Saint is a beach read with both depth and heart. Pick up a copy at any of our local bookstores or on Amazon. Keep your eye out for MK sightings in the Golden Isles too because she’s on the book trail doing signings and appearances!
Summers at the Saint – Mary Kay Andrews
Welcome to the St. Cecelia, known to everyone as “The Saint,” a landmark hotel on the coast of Georgia, where traditions run deep, and scandals run even deeper. If you grew up coming to the hotel, you were “a Saint.” If you came from the wrong side of the river, you were “an Ain’t.” Traci Eddings was “an Ain’t” whose family wasn’t rich or connected enough to vacation here. But she could work here. One fateful summer she did and married the boss’s son. Now, she’s the widowed owner of the hotel, determined to see it return to its glory days, even as staff shortages and financial troubles threaten to ruin it and her greedy and unscrupulous brother-in-law wants to make sure she fails. Enlisting a motley crew of recently hired summer help—including the daughter of her estranged best friend—Traci has one summer season to turn it around. But new information about a long-ago drowning at the hotel threatens to come to light, and the tragic death of one of their own brings Traci to the brink of despair. With her back against the pinkpainted wall of this beloved institution, Traci will need to call upon all her wits and guts to see wrongs put to right, to see guilty parties put in their place, and maybe even to find a new romance along the way.
Popular Southern author and columnist Ronda Rich’s recent Stella Bankwell Mystery, St. Simons Island, also grabbed local attention when she was here last year to promote its release. This first novel in a series of mysteries set on different barrier islands in the Golden Isles was a hit and the others are sure to entertain as well. You’ll recognize some the places and people in these pages! Ronda will be at The Cloister for a ticketed event on August 9, and you’ll want to keep an eye out for other appearances. The book is available at St. Simons Drug Co. and our local bookstores.
St. Simons Island – A Stella Bankwell
Ten years ago, the charming redhead, Stella Bankwell, married unforeseen trouble — Asher Bankwell, of old-Atlanta money and prestige — and now, in the words of those in the mountains where she grew up, Stella’s “chickens have come home to roost.” After a public humiliation at a black-tie gala, in front of Atlanta's snootiest, Stella serves Asher his comeuppance but is then banished from high society. Hoping to soothe her wounds, Stella first heads home to her Mama’s consolation. However, she soon makes her way to the Georgia Coast where her life begins making twists and turns she never could’ve anticipated. With each novel set on a different Golden Isle, St. Simons Island is the first in a series that will follow the resourceful, endearing, and mountain-smart Stella Bankwell; her well-connected and powerful mentor, former Governor McCager Burnett; the wily but always loyal (and single) U.S. Marshal Jackson “Pepper” Culpepper; and Stella’s oddcouple, high-society best friend, Chatty Chatham Balsam Colquitt IV.
Chuck Carter recently released his fiction debut with a thriller set on St. Simons Island, The Half-Life of Carson Hood. The book won First Place and Grand Prize in the annual seven state Southeastern Writers Association competition. According to the author, he received excellent in-person assistance from the late Taylor Schoettle, an incredibly knowledgeable local naturalist who explained why our islands are constantly being pushed around by the climate, weather, tides and waves. You can still find Taylor’s excellent books on sale throughout the Golden Isles. Chuck’s double award-winning debut winning book can be purchased locally at G. J. Ford Bookshop, directly from the author at chuckcarter74@gmail.com, or on Amazon.
The mystery begins on a Sunday under the magnificent oaks of a secluded family cemetery on the north end of St. Simons Island, when former Marine Carson Hood finds someone else buried in his grave. The mystery becomes a race against time with the climax occurring the following Sunday on the waterfront terrace of the Barrier Island Club on the island’s south end, where the country’s first female president will address world media. Carson and his new love Claire have one chance to stop a nefarious assassination plot hatched by two men—one wealthy, one brilliant. As the president steps into the crosshairs of the silent weapon, Carson gets another surprise. Claire knows more than she’s telling.
Whether you pick up these books or choose something else entirely, the miles of beaches, poolside cabanas, and shaded parks on St. Simons Island offer a perfect setting to do your summer reading!
The more that you read, The more things you will know. The more that you learn, The more places you’ll go.
~ Dr. Seuss
Those simple words of Dr. Seuss hold true and are the impetus behind the Early Literacy Academy launched by the Boys & Girls Club of Southeast Georgia (BGCSEGA). Executive Director Brian Dolan explains, “Five years ago, the BGCSEGA Board of Directors made a commitment to fight illiteracy in children. We wanted to combat the issues that arise later when a child cannot read. We met with representatives from Glynn County Schools and the United Way and started the conversation about what was needed in our community.” Seeing that no agency was actively providing a program to strengthen reading skills in young children, they took on the challenge to start a program targeted to 3-4 year-olds where they would begin with the very basics, introducing the alphabet.”
Recognizing how great the need was, BGCSEGA stepped up and made the move to expand the services they already offer to encompass an early literacy program. They jumped right in and worked with the schools to get a curriculum, open a new site for the Early Literacy Academy at 1805 I Street, and establish a library on site supported by the Marshes of Glynn Libraries. With a stated mission “to provide the foundation for all children to have successful academic careers and become lifelong readers through empowering families and communities with individualized instruction and measurable results,” they began enrolling children in July of 2020. According to Dolan, most of the children they serve are enrolled in FACES and Head Start programs. They now have approximately 77 children a day participating in the Early Literacy Academy. And even more impressive, Dolan shares, “We are the only Boys & Girls Club in the nation doing it.”
Most importantly, now five years in, they have the numbers from test scores to show that the program is successful. Glynn County Schools have been tracking the Early Literacy Academy students’ Lexile measures and report that their reading skills far exceed those of their counterparts who are not participating in the program. There is nothing more satisfying that seeing children actively enjoying books and knowing
that this investment in their future has been proven to work, providing them with skills essential to their success later in life. Events like Literacy Day with storybook characters visiting and reading to children are teaching them that learning can be fun.
Geri Lynn Mullis, Executive Director at Marshes of Glynn Libraries, also expressed her excitement about the success of the BGCSEGA Early Literacy Academy and the libraries’ involvement in the program. She’s proud of the “satellite library” (known by the library as a book deposit”) that they maintain at the Early Literacy Academy. The children also come to the library regularly for storytime sessions and the library staff also does some outreach programs with the ELA students. It’s a wonderful working partnership that pays off in big benefits for the children and helps encourage them to be lifetime learners.
If you’re interested in getting your children involved with the Early Literacy Academy or other Boys & Girls Club of Southeast Georgia programs, you don’t have to wait until fall, start now! The Olympics are the theme for this year’s Summer Camp program and enrollment is open for all. With daily field trips that include library storytimes, and planned activities that include art, weekly reading activities, outdoor recreation, games, sports, STEM & Technology, Summer Brain Gain Activities, indoor games, and other mentor activities, they’re going for the gold! Learn more and find registration forms at bgcsega.com.
Adventure is the theme of the Marshes of Glynn Libraries 2024 Summer Reading Program which kicks off on June 3. This summer, they are offering summer reading programs for both children and teens in a project made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services and Georgia Public Library Services. There will be several exciting and entertaining events at both the St. Simons and Brunswick Libraries in June and July. Once again for 2024, the library’s Beanstack website or app will be used to log summer reading and earn rewards.
Geri Lynn Mullis, Director at Marshes of Glynn Libraries says the importance of the reading component of the summer program cannot be emphasized enough. Not only are there fun rewards that the kids can earn by logging their reading, but the reading they do as part of the program can also prevent the summer learning slide and help them be ready school in the fall. She encourages kids to read, read, read so they can earn tokens for the cool book vending machine at the Brunswick Library! They can also earn other book and prizes as well, but the biggest reward is the learning that comes from all types reading. earn can
events at the St. Simons Library are appropriate for all ages and include the following:
Art Adventures on June 6 at 10:30 a.m. Local
Birding Art Adventures Workshop 10:30 a.m. Local artist, Kevin Bongang, will lead kids in a guided art workshop where they will paint birdhouses and feeders.
Interactive Movie: Scooby-Doo Camp Scare! on June 13 at 10:30 a.m. Immerse yourself in the movie with an interactive movie script and a bag of props.
Ron Anglin Presents “Quite A Catch!” on June 20 at 10:30 a.m. This high-flying juggling program is sure to bring a smile to your face!
Wild Wonders Animal Adventures on June 27 at 10:30 a.m. Wild Wonders is proud to present “Scaly Sensations,” a program that includes local and exotic reptiles that goes into their interesting habits and backgrounds. Come see this interesting program and explore the exciting world of reptiles.
Smokey the Bear’s 80th Birthday Bash on July 11 at 10:30 a.m.
Help Smokey the Bear celebrate his upcoming 80th birthday party in style! Light refreshments will be served along with a forestry themed story time.
Barry Stewart Mann Presents “That Book Woman! And Other Off-the-Shelf Adventures" on July 25 at 10:30 a.m. Get in the saddle for some inspiring tales of librarians real and imagined – adventures inspired by reading itself
– as well as treks taken and perils endured to get books into the hands of readers near and far.
library programming on St. Simons Island includes Ms. KK’s Nature’s Story Explorers at 10:30 a.m. on July 5 where kids enjoy an interactive storytelling experience as they go on a Nature Adventure in their imagination. The spinning story-wheel and kids’ suggestions will be used to create stories and songs all about the great outdoors. Storytime on SSI with Ms. Ali (ages 0-6) will take place at 10:30 a.m. every Friday in June and July (except 7/5).
On June 18, the entire family is invited to the Brunswick Library for an entertaining evening program at 6:00 p.m. when Jason Clark presents his Comedy Reptile Show. In his own amusing way, Jason will examine stories about venomous snake encounters and break down the evidence stacked against this greatly feared, ultra-camouflaged predator to expose the truth, even if it kills him. Be sure to check out the special new mural painted by Megan Torello while you’re there!
For more details about the Summer Reading Program and additional events and summer programming at the Brunswick Library, including Teen Robotics Camp and Nintendo Club, and to register on Beanstack, visit the Marsh of Glynn website at moglibraries.org. Start your adventure!
Please support independent bookstores and our local businesses. You can find fiction and non-fiction works for children and adults featuring St. Simons Island and the Golden Isles in the Live Oak Shop at the Golden Isles Visitors Center on St. Simons Island, the St. Simons Island Lighthouse Museum, St. Simons Drug Co., and numerous other local shops. Our two independent bookstores are invaluable! Righton Books is located in Redfern Village and has a Jittery Joe’s coffee shop attached so you can grab a cookie and a cappuccino to enjoy with your purchases. You’ll find G.J. Ford Bookshop in the Shops at Sea Island. Stop in and say hello to new owner Amanda Kirkland. Both bookstores have wonderful newsletters, book clubs, events and programs to engage readers.
Hopefully, this starts you on your discovery of St. Simons Island through books. We’ll get you outside next issue. For now, get reading!
On Saturday, July 13, plan to join your friends and neighbors for a milestone celebration that will bring the entire Golden Isles community together to mark the opening of the causeway that connects Brunswick and St. Simons Island. This centennial event will echo the spirit of the July 1924 grand opening festivities for the causeway, with a parade of dignitaries, pageant, and a fish fry. A steering committee with representatives from the Glynn County Commission, the city of Brunswick, Brunswick-Golden Isles Chamber of Commerce, Golden Isles Development Authority, the Department of Transportation, the Torras Foundation and
the Golden Isles CVB have been joined by sponsors for the event that include the Brunswick Downtown Development Association, Golden Isles Development Authority, Coastal Georgia Historical Society, Keep Golden Isles Beautiful SoGlo Gallery Theatre, McGraw Event Pros, Lighthouse Trolleys, and Island Sound. It’s going to be a party for the ages! “The Torras Causeway was instrumental in connecting the communities of the Golden Isles, and we plan on honoring this strong connection as we celebrate this milestone for our community,” said steering committee member and Golden Isles CVB president and CEO Scott McQuade.
A stalwart champion of the Golden Isles community and this centennial event who was instrumental in getting high-ranking state officials, including Georgia Governor Brian Kemp, involved was former Brunswick-Golden Isles Chamber of Commerce President Woody Woodside. Sadly, due to Woody’s recent passing, he will not be present to see the grand pageantry of the event, but Darren Peitsch and Michael Torras of the Torras Foundation know that he’ll be there in spirit and hope that the celebration honors him and his tireless work on the Golden Isles community’s behalf.
Today it’s hard to imagine not having the ability to cross from the island to the mainland in a matter of minutes thanks to the road and bridges that span the marsh and rivers. However, prior to 1924, accessing the island meant a lengthy trip aboard one of the steam-powered ferries that traveled between the Port of Brunswick and the St. Simons Pier. At that time, the population on St. Simons Island was less than 1,000 permanent residents compared to approximately 14,400 residents living in the bustling City of Brunswick. Building a roadway to cross the multiple rivers and vast marshland was considered impractical at the least, if not entirely impossible. (Kind of like the arguments we hear today when the suggestion of building a second causeway is made!)
Thanks to the vision and impetus provided by Brunswick Mayor Malcolm McKinnon, a proponent of local tourism, an effort to achieve “the impossible” was underway by 1922. Mayor McKinnon asked Brunswick
native and Georgia Tech graduate Fernando J. “F.J.” Torras to engineer the roadway that would connect the mainland and the island. Torras was considered the man for the job because he had spent his early career building roads and railroads through the swamps and jungles of South America.
On December 4, 1921, The Brunswick News described the project and its significance:
“Brunswick men regard the project as one of the most important highway developments in the south. It is shown that it will be of inestimable value to Brunswick situated upon one of the best harbors on the South Atlanta seaboard, and enjoying unusual railroad facilities; also to Glynn and surrounding counties, and in the way of developing the agricultural and scenic resources of St. Simon, it will be revolutionary in its effect.
It is pointed out that there is no spot in America that is richer in romance and historic interest than St. Simon Island. Upon it is the seat of the first capital of Georgia, Frederica, established by General Oglethorpe; and the site of the historic battle of Bloody Marsh, which marked the beginning of Spanish decadence on the Western Hemisphere and determined the issues as to whether the section was subject to Spanish or Anglo-Saxon rule.”
McKinnon’s vision was brought to life in a mere 14 months under Torras' phenomenal leadership. Completed at a cost of $412,000, the 4.2-mile gravel road included a series of trestles spanning Terry Creek, Little River, and Mackay River, and two 280-foot swing bridges over Back and Frederica rivers. On its official opening date of July 11, 1924, a procession of 5,500 cars crossed the new causeway to St. Simons Island. The grand
opening was accompanied by a festive parade and a grand fish fry dinner held under the oaks for 7,500 attendees.
Georgia historian Lucien Lamar Knight predicted a “new era” once Brunswick’s mainland was connected to St. Simons Island by road. His description of the island, its storied history and past inhabitants, was shared in a piece by the Coastal Georgia Historical Society for their newsletter, and is worth recounting here:
“On the Moldering tombstones of the little church-yard can be read the names of all the families who in ante-bellum days constituted the aristocracy of St. Simons Island: The Butlers, the Coupers; the Kings, the Stevenses, the Postells, the Pages, the Spaldings, the Wyllys, (the Hazzards, the Demeres, the Grants, the Frasers, the Goulds, the Armstrongs, the Caters, the Abbotts) and many others. These were all people of culture who owned extensive libraries, and handsome family carriages, who entertained on a vast scale, and in whose wine cellars, in addition to all the domestic products, could be found, the best vintages of
the old world. But the old plantations are gone and the reigning families are now scattered. There can be no return of the old days, because the civilization which produced them has crumbled into the dust of dreams.
But what is to prevent a return to prosperity on St. Simon’s Island under new conditions? Nowhere is there a spot where the whispering emeralds are greener, where summers are balmier, or days are brighter, or ocean breezes more delightful. Here too, the invalid finds a stimulating cordial in the very atmosphere - an elixir of life which takes the stiffness out of his joints and puts him among the convalescents. Even as to the old fount of Bethesda, he can here come to the healing waters. When the contemplated road is built, connecting St. Simon’s Island with the Dixie Highway - watch a new era begin. Where hundred now visit the island, there will then flock myriads, to motor along the beautiful driveways which run in and out among the pendant mosses, to enjoy the music of the ocean waves, to bask in the surf, to explore the old ruins, to hunt for turtles on the beach and to angle for trout in the deep waters - in a word,
Knight was on the mark. The population of St. Simons more than doubled in the 25 years that followed. In fact, by the late 1940s, the causeway and its bridges were wearing out due to the steady increase of traffic.
Glynn County commissioned the design of a new highway by the St. Louis engineering firm of Sverdrup and Parcel. In a technique touted for innovative engineering, major parts of the bridges were precast in concrete using newly developed molds instead of being poured on site. This saved both time and money, with the project was completed in just over a year, though the price tag of $2,500,000 was quite a bit higher. The new causeway replaced the original swing bridges with two vertical lift spans. It was dedicated on June 9, 1950, and given the name F.J. Torras Causeway to honor the intrepid original causeway engineer and Brunswick City Manager in 1953. Since then, the road was widened from two lanes to four, and the lift spans were replaced with fixed bridges.
Michael Torras says that a recent visit to Atlanta and discussions with representatives from the Georgia Department of Transportation unscored just how truly remarkable his great-grandfather’s engineering
achievement was – they told him that if the causeway was presented as a project today, it probably couldn’t be built. Just the approval process could take as much as a decade! So clearly, there’s good cause to celebrate the ten decades of easy access between St. Simons Island and Brunswick!
Regina McDuffie now holds the office that F.J. Torras held for more than 30 years, that of Brunswick City Manager. She says that this event is significant from the City’s perspective because it shows how impactful infrastructure can be. The impact on socioeconomic factors and growth aren’t usually associated with infrastructure and can often be overlooked. Here, however, the causeway is clearly one of the most significant developments that have changed our community. Because the city’s job is to maintain and provide a strong infrastructure for its residents, it’s important to show how much was accomplished when the initiative was taken, and the plan was promptly executed, to build the causeway. "I’m sure they knew when they built the causeway that it would have a major impact. I don’t think they ever thought it would be of
“Where hundred now visit the island, there will then flock myriads, to motor along the beautiful driveways which run in and out among the pendant mosses, to enjoy the music of the ocean waves, to bask in the surf, to explore the old ruins, to hunt for turtles on the beach and to angle for trout in the deep waters - in a word,to discover on our Georgia coast what the Spaniards failed to find in the land of flowers - A FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH.” -
this magnitude. Where we are today, with the sheer number of cars that cross the span every day, would have been unimaginable."
Regina believes the centennial event planned for July is of great significance because it brings history forward and draws everyone together. She says, “It’s a celebration of 100 years of growth and change in our community and demonstrates the importance of preserving history.” Join representatives from the city, county, state, and a variety of other agencies and organizations in honoring not only the historic accomplishment, but the can-do attitude demonstrated by both of these Brunswick city managers.
Event planner Brittany Jenson says that the July event will evoke that
the spirit of that grand opening day, not try to recreate it. Instead of a procession of thousands of cars traveling from Brunswick to St. Simons, at 9:30 a.m., there will be a Lights and Sirens Parade with police cars, fire trucks, and other emergency vehicles from different agencies making their way from Brunswick Landing Marina to Old City Hall. The morning parade is intended as a demonstration of the community’s support for our public servants and first responders and will thrill kids of all ages. At 11:15 a.m., a small motorcade of dignitaries and VIP guests in vintage cars and trolley will make a ceremonial trip from Brunswick over the causeway to Gascoigne Bluff to join the Community Celebration taking place there.
The Community Celebration at Gascoigne Bluff will feature a Coastal Marketplace dedicated to juried arts and crafts by local artisans. The Marketplace will be open to the public at no charge. This showcase of art and fine crafts, literature, fashionable attire and accessories highlights the talents of Coastal Georgia artists. There will also be a kid zone, toucha-truck area, and pet adoption on site for family fun.
In keeping with the spirit of the pageant that took place at the 1924 grand opening, the 2024 Centennial Celebration Pageant Committee is putting
together a historic retrospective of the ten decades that followed that day (1924-2024), using video, narration, and costumed performers including members of Brunswick Actors Theatre and The Island Players highlighting local milestones and popular songs and dance from each decade. In addition to the singers, dancers, and other performers at the bandstand, people dressed in costumes and attire to reflect each decade will act as bystanders to lend a festive spirit to all the activities of the day. Pageant Committee Chair Lynda Dalton-Gallagher stresses that this is a historic event for the whole community and invites everyone to participate – businesses, churches, civic organizations, school groups, social clubs, and individuals. “We encourage as many people as possible to play a part and make this a memorable day for all.” Please contact Lynda by phone call or text to 912.230.1042 if you’d like to join the fun. There will also be music by the Jekyll Island Big Band to help transport you to the glamorous era of the Roaring 20s! Directed by Dr. Hal Crowe, the Jekyll Island Big Band has been performing continuously for 45 years and features talented musicians with a dedication to the classic big band sound. They’ll keep your feet tapping with lively tunes.
Of course there are Culinary Delights on the agenda for the day. Savor the flavors of yesteryear as culinary students from the College of Coastal Georgia present a mouth-watering fish fry, reminiscent of past
celebrations. Tickets will be required for the fish fry, so please make sure to get yours! If you’d prefer something other than fish to satisfy your palate and appetite, there will a Food Truck Hub featuring Hal with tasty fare from Halyards Catering, Luigi offering food from Del Sur Artisan Eats, and the Cluck Truck from Porch SSI.
This day of nostalgia for gathering friends, families, and neighbors will conclude with closing remarks at 2:00 p.m. If you’d like a souvenir of this historic event, there will be commemorative coin available for purchase. For folks old enough to remember the 1976 bicentennial, think of this as a Golden Isles lite version. It’s going to be a very special event and community participation is key. If you’d like to volunteer, sponsor, or donate, please contact the planning committee through the website.
While the centennial celebration is sure to be momentous event for our community, it touches Michael Torras on a personal level as well. “I have relatives whom I've yet to meet, and they're coming to town for the festivities which is giving my family a chance to finally meet them. However, it is bittersweet as I wish my grandfather were here to witness this; he would be beaming with pride. Similar to how the completion of the causeway united communities 100 years ago, this event is also reconnecting people. It is nice to see the community, the city and the county working together to celebrate this remarkable achievement.” Hopefully, this centennial spirit of community only strengthens over the next 100 years.
For more information, to purchase tickets to the fish fry or to donate to the celebration, visit CausewayCelebration.com.
TORRAS CAUSEWAY CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION SCHEDULE
8:30 a.m.
Shop the Farmers Market
MARY ROSS WATERFRONT PARK
9:30 a.m.
Lights and Sirens Parade
Celebrating our Public Servants
DOWNTOWN BRUNSWICK (from Marina to Old City Hall)
11 a.m.
Community Celebration Begins GASCOIGNE BLUFF PARK SSI
Coastal Marketplace • Pageant
Jekyll Island Big Band
Fish Fry + Food Trucks • Family Fun
11:15 a.m.
Dignitaries and VIP Guests
Motorcade of Vintage Vehicles
Travels Across the Causeway
11:30 a.m.
Community Welcomes the Motorcade and Singing of the National Anthem
GASCOIGNE BLUFF PARK
2 p.m. Closing Remarks
There’s always plenty to do in the Golden Isles around the 4th of July.
Family activities, 5Ks, and fireworks are just some of the things you can expect. Here’s a brief rundown of scheduled events but be sure to check the Elegant Island Living website calendar and social media for updated information and additional events that may be scheduled as we get closer to the holiday.
Thursday, July 4 begins with the 40th Annual Sunshine Festival Run. The 5K race course winds through the beautiful live oak and Spanish moss-lined streets in the Village, beginning at 7:00 a.m. at Kings Park, 601 Mallery St (across from Mallery Park) and ending the same location. This is a USTAF Certified 5k route and chip timing is provided by Second Wind Timing. The 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk will start in the same location immediately following the 5k at 8:00 a.m. The starting line will be sorted by expected pace, fastest up front, and walkers in the back. Every participant who completes the 5k or 1 Mile course will receive a Finisher Medal. For Push Rim, riders will receive participant awards and pushers compete in 5K as normal. In addition to the usual 5k and 1 Mile Awards for top finishers, race participants can win awards for Best Costume, Best (Largest) Team, Fastest Team (based on the top 3 fastest on a team, one must be a female. Must have at least 3 people on a team). For those with homes along the race route, you can put on your best patriotic display and compete for three awards: Patriotic, Creative, and Old Glory.
There will be NO Race Day Registration. Pre-Race Day Walk-Up Registration is permitted at Packet Pickup. Pre-Race Day Packet Pickup will take place from 4 -7 p.m. on Wednesday, July 3 at St. Simons Presbyterian Church, 205 Kings Way. It is strongly recommended that you (or your friends and family) pick up your packet on Monday, the day before the race. Race Day Packet Pickup will begin at 6 a.m. on the 4th at Kings Park Basketball Courts. Participants registered by June 12 are the only runners guaranteed a high-quality short-sleeve T-shirt (youth and adult sizes) or Tank Top (adult sizes), so register early at runsignup.com.
Additional race information: Sports in Motion Photography will be photographing the event, and all digital images will be free for participants. Runners will receive an email after the race with a direct link to images or they can visit simphotos.com to view photos. Strollers are allowed, but dogs are not.
Golden Isles Track Club uses the proceeds of this event to support healthy living through motion in our community, including several youth organizations, area high school track, cross-country teams, and local
projects that enhance the walking, running, and cycling experience, including water refill stations and trails. Volunteers are always needed, so get in touch if you’d like to participate! Additional race information can be found at goldenislestrack.club.
Sunshine more than 70
As part of St. Simons Island’s annual Sunshine Festival, vendors with original art and handmade artisan products will be selling their wares at Crafts in the Village from 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 4 through 4 p.m. on Sunday, July 7. Shop original art, pottery, jewelry, woodcrafts, plants, specialty foods, candles, soaps, skincare, décor, the Kona Ice truck, and much more underneath the canopy of shady live oaks in the heart of the village. With four days of shopping opportunities, you’ll have ample time to browse at leisure! Check the Crafts in the Village Facebook page for previews of vendors and other special happenings.
There are a few golf cart parades that takes place in the various neighborhoods on St. Simons Island on the 4th of the July. Don’t fret if your block doesn’t have one, just head down to Pier Village to catch the line-up next to Mallery Park ballfields around 1:30 p.m. The parade usually takes place about 2:30 p.m., but this is a bit early for firm details, so keep an eye on the EIL website and social media accounts for more info. That evening, you’ll want to make sure to grab your family, friends, beach chairs, blankets, and snacks and head over to the Neptune Park and Village area early to get a good spot to see the fireworks at the pier. Fireworks begin at sundown, around 9:00 p.m. There’s no charge for parking or admission. The pier and south end of Mallery Street will be closed to cars and pedestrian traffic beginning that morning.
Planning for Brunswick's Old Fashioned 4th of July celebration is underway as well. This annual event takes place on Thursday, July 4th from 6:00-9:30 p.m. with fireworks at 9:00 p.m. at Mary Ross Waterfront Park. Old fashioned games, including hula hoop competition, sack races and tug-of-war, puppy parade, live music by Hot Banana Coffee, local food vendors, free watermelon, and fireworks at dusk make this a fun evening for the whole family. Bring your chairs and blankets to enjoy the festivities at our waterfront park. For more details follow the Historic Downtown Brunswick social media accounts or visit discoverbrunswick.com.
p.m.
our
Families will flock to Jekyll Island to enjoy the beach, have fun at Summer Waves Waterpark, and to watch the fantastic Independence Day fireworks that light up the sky on Thursday, July 4th. The spectacular show is scheduled to begin around 8:45 p.m., depending on lighting and weather conditions, when the sky offers the best background for these incredible pyrotechnics. The fireworks display is viewable across an oceanside section of the island, so grab a seat on the beach or park and view the show from your car at the premier viewing locations of Great Dunes Beach Park and Oceanview Beach Park. The Jekyll Island parking fee will be increased for the day of the event. The fee at the parking gate will be an additional $5 per daily pass; annual passes are not impacted. For more information and to see any other events planned for the Independence Day holiday, follow Jekyll Island’s social media accounts or visit jekyllisland.com.
For residents and guests of Sea Island, The Cloister and Beach Club have a full roster of activities scheduled from Sunday, June 30 through Sunday, July 7, including free shuttles running through the week. The festivities include a luau party, a cooking and cocktail demonstrations, the Firecracker 5K, banana split challenge, wine tasting, princess tea party, Low Country Boil and other family-friendly fun. Independence Day begins with an 8:00 a.m. flag-raising ceremony at Summit Park followed by the 24th Annual July 4th Parade on Rainbow Island and a full day of events that includes kids’ talent show, pool games and the annual Red, White, and Boom! Celebration with fireworks display. Stay the week and make memories you’ll cherish forever! For detailed information, visit seaisland.com.
Originating in Logan, Utah in 2017, Crumbl Cookies is one of the fastest growing franchises, and is now open in Brunswick. ey o er a weekly rotating menu of cookies, which means every week they have new avors to o er, with approximately 300 avors currently in the Crumbl catalog. e gourmet cookies can be purchased in packs of 1, 4, 6, or 12. Mini cookies are now o ered also, on Mondays only, in packs of 3, 6, or 12.
Catering options are available for both sizes of cookies. Crumbl’s aim is to provide their customers with the best products, as well as a great customer experience through and through. e Brunswick location at 131 Altama Connector, Unit #1, opened in November 2023 and they pride themselves in bringing friends and family together over a box of the best desserts around. Open Mon.- urs. 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. crumbl.com.
Our friends at Maggie’s Boutique on St. Simons Island recently celebrated their 50th year in business. Known as “the unique boutique,” this haven for fantastic women’s fashion and all things UGA Bulldogs has been a must-stop destination for visiting Dawg fans and other discerning shoppers from near and far for a half century! Merrill Edens and Adgate Cole and the other women that make up the Maggie’s crew are always ready with a smile to assist customers and make sure the boutique has current styles from top brands, like Krazy Larry, Lysse, Foxcroft, and more. eir celebration included refreshments, giveaways, and their everpresent sense of fun. Stop in 1616 Frederica Road and tell them congratulations on reaching this magni cent milestone. Shop online at maggiesssi.com.
Southeast Georgia Health System has launched Health Matters, a biweekly podcast dedicated to giving the inside scoop on improving the health and wellness of our community. Featured guests are Health System doctors, nurses, physical therapists and other experts in the health care eld. “We are thrilled to have the opportunity to reach our community in a whole new way,” says Melody Bradley, Digital Media Supervisor, Southeast Georgia Health System. “It’s essential that we meet our patients where they are in order to start meaningful conversations around health and wellness. We have our website, social media pages, text alerts and monthly e-newsletter as well.” From brain cancer to foot surgery and in between, Health System providers are dedicated to o ering an educational yet intimate show that informs and entertains. Tune in every other week by subscribing on your favorite podcasting platform, including Apple Podcasts, iHeart, Pandora, YouTube, and Spotify. sghs.org.
RSM US LLP (“RSM”) – the leading provider of assurance, tax and consulting services for the middle market and the title sponsor of e RSM Classic – and the Davis Love Foundation recently announced that the 2023 RSM Classic raised $5,743,738 for children and family-focused charitable organizations. Since 2010, the annual PGA TOUR event hosted by the Davis Love Foundation has raised funds totaling more than $42 million. One of the many features of e RSM Classic’s philanthropic e orts is RSM’s Birdies Fore Love charity competition with the PGA TOUR, which donates funds to charities supported by PGA TOUR players who record the most birdies (or better) during the FedExCup Fall. Luke List earned that honor and made a $250,000 donation to Children’s Hospital of Georgia, and a $50,000 donation to Ronald McDonald House Charities.
Charitable dollars raised through e RSM Classic are distributed by the RSM US Foundation and the Davis Love Foundation, a 501(c)3 nonpro t organization that manages and operates e RSM Classic. e Davis Love Foundation was established in 2005 by professional golfer and Team RSM Member Davis Love III and his wife Robin. “Giving back to the community is at the center of the PGA TOUR’s long history, and the Davis Love Foundation is honored to work with an organization whose tournaments have provided so much in charitable giving over the years,” said Love III. “Robin and I are thrilled about the
total raised through the 2023 RSM Classic, and we’re looking forward to doing even greater things this November when we celebrate the 15th year. We are so proud of the passionate team at the Davis Love Foundation, and our wonderful relationships with our title sponsor RSM, and other sponsors and patrons in the Golden Isles community.”
e 15th playing of e RSM Classic is scheduled for November 18-24, 2024, at Sea Island Golf Club on St. Simons Island. Tickets and hospitality options can be purchased at rsmclassic.com.
…To e Island Players Young People’s Summer Workshop production of e Wizard of Oz, Youth Edition. Directed by Josh Sinyard, this faithful adaptation by the Royal Shakespeare Company features all the most beloved songs and moments from the 1939 classic lm, brought to life onstage. Young Dorothy Gale is swept away by a tornado from her Kansas farm to the magical land of Oz where she encounters a host of whimsical characters and braves many dangers while traveling to see the mysterious and all-powerful Wizard in Emerald City, ultimately learning an important lesson: there’s no place like home. Shows July 17-21 and 24-28 at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday, and 3:00 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Tickets at theislandplayers.com.
Join Coldwell Banker Access Realty Brunswick, along with sponsors Matted Ox Axe rowing and Cornerstone First Mortgage Coastal GA, for their 8th Annual First Responders Day. ey’ll be showing support and appreciation for our local rst responders and their families by serving lunch from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Friday, June 14th at the Brunswick O ce (1965 Glynn Avenue, at the base of the SSI Causeway). All First Responders eat free. Come in uniform or bring your badge. Hamburgers, hotdogs, baked beans, coleslaw, chips, drinks, desserts, snow cones, popcorn & more. $5 for the public. ere will be fellowship, vendor booths, axe throwing, cornhole, giveaways, and drawings. All proceeds this year will go to the Brunswick Fire Department to purchase drones and equipment. For more information call Bill Robinson at 912.267.0054.
e celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Historic Harrington School continues with Taste of Gullah, St. Simons African American Heritage Coalition’s annual fundraiser. Indulge in Gullah Cuisine of the Georgia Sea Islands while enjoying a performance by the world-renowned Gullah Geechee Ring Shouters; one of the top performers of the Gullah Geechee culture, and enjoy a tour of the one-room school built in the 1920s for African Americans. e St. Simons African American Heritage Coalition is a nonpro t organization that maintains the Historic Harrington School. Your donation will support the Historic Harrington School. For more information, call 912.634.0330. Secure your tickets now at ssiheritagecoalition.org.
THE DAVIS LOVE GRILL HAS LIKELY SEEN SOME REAL CHARACTERS OVER THE YEARS, BUT NONE CAN COMPARE TO THE RECENT CHARACTER BREAKFAST IT HOSTED FOR JUNIOR LEAGUE OF THE GOLDEN ISLES. This popular annual event lets little ones meet their favorite storybook, movie, and TV characters, while raising funds to support JLGI’s service programs, confidence closets, and other works to help empower women and children in our community.
MORE THAN A DOZEN NOMINATED COMMUNITY MEMBERS COMPETED OVER EIGHT WEEKS TO RAISE FUNDS FOR SAFE HARBOR CHILDREN’S CENTER AND EARN THE TITLE “ULTIMATE CHAMPION FOR CHILDREN.” This second year of the campaign beat had record success, earning $250,000. This year’s top three champions were Mary Katelyn Bland of Bland Farms, Ciera Womack of Rich Products, and Jonathan Jerusalmy of Sea Island Co. The culmination gala at Queen and Grant celebrated all the Champions and their accomplishments.
The Legacy-focused fundraiser provided an evening of celebration and inspiration as the organization showcased their mission of civic and community engagement and awarded college scholarships to local students. Funds were also raised for The Justice Journey- an annual immersive civil rights history experience for students in the Social Justice Clubs at
and
A cottage by the sea. Traditional classic architecture specifically for the Sea Island beach and oceanfront living on 5th Street. Each room is carefully planned and rewarding to the eye. Casual, comfortable and elegant. Five bedrooms, five full baths plus two half baths. The master bedroom has vaulted and beamed ceiling, fireplace, expansive bath and is adjacent to den/office with access to an oceanside porch. The guest bedrooms are gracious and lovely. There is something new to discover in each room. All social areas have inspiring ocean views. The Living Room has 12' box beamed ceilings, Palladian windows, fireplace, heart of pine floors. The old pine floors and high ceilings continue in the Dining Room. The Family Room features high beamed tongue-in-groove ceilings, limestone floors, and fireplace. The chef's kitchen is open to a breakfast area. A barrel ceiling, paneled observatory on the top level of the home adds an exciting element. The grounds are immaculate and the courtyard gardens with brick walkways, tabby wall and fountain provide a real sense of arrival at a world class home. 5th Street, Sea Island. A rare opportunity. $21,995,000
$1,850,000
Welcome to 137 Shore Rush Drive, in coveted Sea Palms. This special property beautifully combines character and function, with some of the best views you'll find on St. Simons Island. This 3 bedroom, 3bath home includes an additional flex space with a walk-in closet and full bath (not counted in the square footage of the home). 137 Shore Rush has numerous custom features such as hardwood floors throughout all main living areas and primary suite, high ceilings, and large windows to take in the endless lake views. The large chef's kitchen includes plenty of storage, an island, gas range, double ovens, pantry, butler's pantry with dumbwaiter, and separate breakfast room. Outside, you'll find a large deck for alfresco dining, and a lower deck for fishing and entertaining. The grounds are a gardener's dream, complete with potting shed. Enjoy the fire pit overlooking the lake, or put your kayak in on the private ramp and paddle all the way to Gould's Inlet. This property offers the best of St. Simons living. Listed by Kate Danowski 912.222.0174
104 YACHT CLUB DRIVE Saint Simons Island, 5 BR | 5.5 BA |Views | $2,900,000
Introducing an extraordinary custom home that embodies luxury, elegance and waterfront living at its finest, boasting breathtaking deep water and marsh views, a deeded boat slip and access to the community dock, making it a heaven for water enthusiasts. Nestled in the gated community of the Yacht Club, this home offers unparalleled privacy and security, ensuring a serene and exclusive lifestyle. Upon entering, you are greeted by an open floorpan, stunning hardwood floors, beamed ceilings, exposed brick walls, gourmet kitchen with high end appliances, a large island for entertaining, generously sized pantry, and so much more. The elevator ensures access to the second floor. An abundance of natural light, views of the marsh and deep water, Sidney Lanier bridge, the perfect pool (12x24) and outdoor space for your enjoyment, will make this gem your dream home. Don't miss the chance to make this extraordinary property your own and experience the epitome of coastal living. Easy to show. All serious offers considered. Listed by Kate Danowski 912.222.0174
414 HAWKINS ISLAND DR Hawkins Island 5BR | 5BA | 2HBA $5,750,000
Stellar views of the Frederica River and the Marshes of Glynn greet you throughout this elegant, coastal architectural gem. Designed by the award winning architectural firm, Harrison Design, and located on a 2.45 acre estate lot, the lovely, furnished home is sited on the peninsula portion of the lot ensuring optimal privacy and unobstructed vistas.Living, dining and a gourmet kitchen/keeping room have fabulous views and flow to a coral stone terrace and heated, saline pool, giving the home exceptional entertaining spaces. The primary bedroom has its own sitting area and screened porch which allow the owners to enjoy nature. The magnificent primary bath has heated marble floors. There are three guest suites upstairs with their own sitting area and screened porch along with a separate guest suite on the main level separated from the residence by a porch with summer kitchen.
KING AND PRINCE, VILLA 183 2BR | 2BA | $1,175,00
Optimal Ocean front location sets this furnished, ground floor condo apart. Enjoy the best of our coastal lifestyle walking out from your private patio to the beach and the King and Prince heated pool, hot tubs, tennis courts and oceanfront restaurants. The villas at this historic resort are just moments away from some of St. Simon's best restaurants and shopping.
1601 BRUCE DRIVE East Beach 3 or 4BR | 2.5BA | $1,579,000
Best deal in East Beach! This coastal haven nestled in East Beach has views to water over the historic Coast Guard Station. The raised coastal cottages interiors reflect coastal elegance with 9 ft. Ceilings and hickory floors. Recent enhancements include a new roof, an open kitchen layout with custom island, stainless appliances and new flooring. The spacious primary suite has excellent views. Come see this meticulous cottage!
316 FOREST OAKS Island Club 5BR | 5BA | 2HBA $2,250,000
Overlooking the 14th and 15th holes of the Retreat Golf Course, this Mediterranean home is stunning! The large sun splashed living, dining and family rooms flow out to a lovely terrace. Featuring wonderful windows, high ceilings, hwd and stone floors, architectural antiques and a chef’s kitchen, the home manifests quality. Clay tile roof and 3 car garage. Perfect island location close to the Village!
2027 SEA PALMS W DR. Marsh Point 3BR | 2BA | $1,090,000
This raised cottage, with its emphasis on quality, is situated midst a garden landscape on a .81 acre marsh front lot with fabulous views. The two story living room with a central fireplace, dining area and kitchen flow to a spacious, screened porch that overlooks the pool, gardens and endless views. The large primary suite has a sitting area with a large window that has unobstructed views to the Lanier Bridge. This exquisite property has been on the Cassina Garden Tour twice.
Breathtaking deepwater lot with dock in the private Eagle Neck community. This three bedroom, two and a half bath marshfront home even has a wood burning fireplace. Many updates including a new roof, HVAC, and a new tankless water heater. You can access the Atlantic ocean and the Intercoastal from your own private dock. There is also room for an airplane hanger to access the private airstrip located right in the neighborhood! You wont want to leave this Southern escape and the great porch overlooking the marsh and the deep water vistas. Call Susan today to see this unique property. $899,000
This 6000 SF brick marshfront home stands alone in its marketplace. Ready to be lived in and loved! The custom fireplace with 25 foot mahogany floor to ceiling wall covering is breathtaking! Gorgeous sunset views! New roof in 2018. Newer KitchenAid appliances with very large refrigerator/ freezer, double oven. There is so much storage!! In 2023 the swimming pool was changed to a saltwater pool.The pool bench seat extends the length of the pool under the spillover fountain. Inside features custom wood medallions, crown moldings and plantation shutters. 12 foot ceilings .$1,799,000
This quaint pocket subdivision is gated and located mid-north on St. Simons Island. Nice marsh view. This is just a bike ride away from Bennies Red Barn, Village Creek Landing, and GLynn County Harrington Park for walking trails and a public boat ramp. $199,000
Premier corner lot directly outside of private community at Cathead Landing. Off New River Road. $80,000
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2311 Ocean Road | St. Simons
5BR, 4.5BA. Waterfront Oasis. $2,795,000. CeCe Gandy. 404-797-4373.
101 Hasell Lane | St. Simons
4BR, 4BA. Secluded Island Paradise. $800,000. Margaret Anne Proctor. 912-222-6629.
350 Brockinton Marsh | St. Simons
2BR, 2BA. A Charming Coastal Retreat. $409,900. Sandra Branch. 912-269-1129.
1 Marina #202 A&B | St. Simons
2BR, 2BA. Condo with Marsh Views. $350,000. Kelli Osteen. 912-270-2505.
605 Brickyard Lane | St. Simons 6BR, 4BA. 4640 sq ft home with pool. $1,375,000. Lynne Emery. 912-399-1000.
10 Marina Dr #214 | St. Simons 3BR, 3BA. Stunning Waterfront Condo. $685,000. Diana Fisher. 912-399-9910.
107 Fiddlers Cove | Kingsland
4BR, 2.5BA. Exquisite home in gated SubDiv. $368,000. Kay 912-230-3253, Cynthia 662-694-9235.
1 Marina Dr 204 A&B | St. Simons 2BR, 2BA. Surrounded by water/marsh. $344,000. Carla Jernigan. 912-266-3111.
132 Montrose | St. Simons
4BR, 5.5BA. New construction home in Hampton Plantation. $949,900. Margaret Anne Proctor. 912-222-6629.
379 Oak Grove Isl. Dr. | Brunswick 4BR, 3.5BA. Immaculate home on Golf Course. $599,900. Cynthia Brown. 662-694-9235.
134 Dekan Ave | Brunswick 3BR, 2BA. Comfort & Style. $355,000. Sandra Branch.912-269-1129.
59 Galloway Grove | Brunswick
4BR, 2BA. Beautiful, well-built Home. $334,900. Cynthia Brown. 662-694-9235.
100 Twelfth Street Amazing location!! Magnificent views over the water towards Jekyll Island and next to The Village, Pier, and Lighthouse. Completely renovated, luxurious home features a panoramic ocean views, multiple outside decks, Thor kitchen appliances, garage and outside decks overlooking the water. $2,900,000
158 Ledbetter Ave NEW CONSTRUCTION in Oyster Grove. Two-story 4BR, 3.5BA. Primary suite on main. Luxury interior features include hwd flooring, tile flooring in all wet areas, carpet, custom cabinetry, quartz countertops, custom wood shelving, and a gas tankless water heater. www.oystergrove.com $978,500
315 Lantern Walk Amazing opportunity to own a meticulously maintained condo on beautiful St Simons Island. 3BD, 3.5BA condo in The Gates, gated community located on the south end of the island. $595,000
300 Carnoustie Elegant all one-level 4BR, 4.5BA stucco home with many custom features. Screened-in back porch with a private back patio and yard. Large corner lot within easy walking distance to clubhouse, tennis, pool, and golf course. House is being sold furnished. $1,475,000
2100 Prince Lane, Unit #2100 Luxury meets convenience. One level living in the heart of the Village. Elevator access to your front door, gated community, two car garage with storage room. You can use the grill while having cocktails at the pool. Walk to village, pier, shops and restaurants. $949,900
116 Hillcrest Court Welcome to Oak Forest, a very popular and desirable community. This 3 bedroom, 2 bath home offers comfortable one level living with a split floor plan. Large, private backyard and screened-in porch.$575,000
23 Orchard Road Ugrades galore! This professionally decorated home will WOW your guests from the moment they enter the front door. 4BD, 3.5BA home with spacious backyard. $1,095,000
1203 Reserve Lane, Unit #1203 Beautiful townhome located on the south end of the island. 3BD, 2.5BA with a back patio overlooking the community pond. Just a short walk from the community pool! $550,000
109 Rice Mill This marsh-front custom-built home in Hampton Plantation has an excellent open floor plan with generous room sizes. 3BR, 2.5BA in gated community. $990,000
Accommodation Excise Tax Cert# 011504
King & Prince - St. Simons Island King and Prince ocean view villas. Call today to check availability!
605 Ocean Beach bungalow located within the Village Historic Preservation District. 2BR, 2.5BA with screened back porch. Sleeps 4.
519 Bartow - 4BR, 4.5BA vacation home near the Pier and Village. Private pool.
East Beach - 7 Coast Cottage Coastal gem steps away from the best beach on the island. 4BR, 4.5BA. Sleeps 8.
Shipwatch Retreat, Unit #314 - Top-level 2BR, 2BA end unit. Community pool and access to the beach. Sleeps 5.
2101 Bruce Drive, East Beach - 3BR, 2.5BA. Spacious one-level home w/ large pool and multiple areas for entertaining. Sleeps 8.
Demere Landing - Beautiful condo in a
neighborhood convenient to the Village, shopping, restaurants, and beach access. Sleeps 6.
East Beach - Sixteenth Street 5BR, 5.5BA. Breathtaking ocean views. Amazing outdoor kitchen and private pool. Sleeps 10.
4206 Eighth St - Newly remodeled East Beach cottage with private backyard and pool. 5BR, 5.5BA. Steps to beach access! Sleeps 14.
Real Escapes Properties is one the largest Property Management Companies on St. Simons Island. We’ve been a local, family-owned and operated business since 2004. We currently have over 150 short term vacation rentals and several long-term rentals and all are located right here on St. Simons Island - where our focus has always been!
At Real Escapes Properties, we do so much more than simply putting a few pictures of your investment property online and waiting for the interested parties to call in. Instead, we create an individual profile for each and every property to really emphasize everything that makes your property appealing and special. We meet with our homeowners and discuss their needs and their goals and set pricing based on each unique property.
We look forward to proving our motto that "You already have a friend on the Island" with the wonderful staff at Real Escapes Properties. Call us today to discuss property management options - we look forward to hearing from you soon!
In the 1920s, St. Simons Island resident Sam Proctor owned and operated a business in the African American neighborhood known as South End. Called “Proctor’s Emporium,” the lattice-enclosed pavilion served as both a soft drink stand and, at night, a dance floor. When it opened, Proctor’s Emporium was the only African American establishment of its kind on St. Simons. The Proctors were a prominent local family, including Sam’s relative Willis Proctor who had a wealth of Gullah Geechee musical knowledge and was a leading member of the original Georgia Sea Island Singers. Sam shared Willis’s love for music and wanted to share it with his community.
At Proctor’s Emporium, located near the intersection of Demere and Arnold roads, summer Saturdays became celebrations. Sam hired a band who played music from about 8 p.m. until midnight, attracting many eager patrons. During the 1920s, business for the Emporium only grew. The completion of the causeway to Brunswick brought more potential developments to the island—including a nearby subdivision named “Ocean Breeze.” Summer vacationers on St. Simons often brought servants with them for the season, and the African American servants frequented Proctor’s Emporium. As the Ocean Breeze development expanded and crept closer to the dance hall, though, landowners and developers in the subdivision lodged a noise complaint and requested the closure of the business, leading to what became known as the only jury trial ever to be held on St. Simons Island.
More than fifty years after the trial, attorney Charles L. Gowen remembered its unusual aspects. On a summer day in 1927, he arrived
to represent Sam Proctor at “Judge Postell’s courthouse” on St. Simons Island. The one-room building was packed with people, and the justices announced that the trial would be moved to the covered portion of the St. Simons Pier, which would accommodate a larger crowd and was cooler than the courthouse. Sam Proctor testified that his business was orderly, and that the music wasn’t unnecessarily loud. Gowen remembered that during his closing statement, “all the jurors suddenly jumped up, ran to the other side of the Pier, and some of them jumped into the ocean” to rescue a swimmer. Despite the interruption, the jurors returned to deliberate. After only a few minutes, the trial was decided in Sam Proctor’s favor, and he continued to operate Proctor’s Emporium until his death about a decade later.
This month’s featured image is an undated photo of the St. Simons Island Pier from the collections of the Coastal Georgia Historical Society. Charles L. Gowen’s account of the trial is also held in the Society’s collections.
Coastal Georgia Historical Society presents this article and images from our archives as part of our mission “to connect people to Coastal Georgia’s dynamic history.” The Society operates the iconic St. Simons Lighthouse Museum and the World War II Home Front Museum, housed in the Historic Coast Guard Station at East Beach. To learn more about the Society, its museums, diverse programs, and membership, please visit coastalgeorgiahistory.org.
