
The island has become a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and natural beauty. Simons Island underwent a period of development, with the construction of bridges connecting the island to the mainland, making it more accessible for tourism and residential development. After the war, the economy of the island declined due to the abolition of slavery and the devastation of the war.

They built Fort Bartow on the island's southern tip, which saw action during the war. Simons Island was occupied by Union forces in 1862. Some of these historic homes, such as the Bloody Marsh Battle Site, Christ Church, and the Hamilton Plantation Tabby Slave Cabins, can still be visited today.ĭuring the American Civil War, St. They built grand homes, known as "cottages," on the island. Simons Island had become a retreat for wealthy plantation owners seeking refuge from the summer heat. Sea Island cotton, rice, and indigo were the main crops cultivated, and enslaved Africans were brought to work on the plantations.īy the 19th century, St. Simons Island became a hub for plantation agriculture. The fort played a crucial role in the defense of Georgia during the Battle of Bloody Marsh in 1742.įollowing the American Revolution, St. Simons Island and built Fort Frederica to protect the area from Spanish expansion. In 1736, James Oglethorpe, founder of the colony of Georgia, landed on St. In the 18th century, the British established colonies along the Georgia coast. Simons Island, but the effort failed due to disease and conflict with the local indigenous populations. In 1526, Spanish explorer Lucas Vázquez de Ayllón attempted to establish a colony near St. They lived on the island for thousands of years and left behind shell rings and other artifacts. Simons Island was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Guale and Mocama people.

Here's a brief overview of the history of St. Simons Island has a rich history that dates back thousands of years, starting with its indigenous inhabitants and continuing through European exploration, colonization, and the growth of the United States. Visitors will travel back in time as they Explore the island's well-preserved history and abundant cultural attractions, heritage sites, monuments and parks.Īmong the highlights, you'll find Bloody Marsh Battle Site, Christ Church, First African Baptist Church, Fort Frederica National Monument, Gascoigne Bluff, Hofwyl Broadfield Plantation in nearby Brunswick, the Maritime Center at the Historic Coast Guard Station on East Beach, and the infamous landmark St. Simons Island, called "San Simone" by 16th century Spanish explorers, is now simply called "wonderful" by those who retreat to its shores today. Simons Island, one of the famed and fabled Golden Isles that grace this corner of Georgia's coast, is especially alluring.
