Hilton Head Island is an area rich in history and culture. Many important milestones of The Civil War took place in the area, and today, it is one of the most popular vacation spots in the world. There are many historic points of interest on the island, and this article will provide information about a few of them so that you can incorporate them into your next visit to the island.

One of the most famous landmarks of the island is the Harbour Town Lighthouse. Located in the center of shops, galleries, and restaurants, the lighthouse was built in 1970, and was never designed to be a functional lighthouse. Today, the lighthouse has come to be closely associated not only with Hilton Head, but with South Carolina as a whole. When architect Charles Frasier first designed and constructed the lighthouse, locals were skeptical, but today even local lighthouse purists profess a fondness for the landmark. While the lighthouse is not maintained by the coast guard, it does contain a beacon and local ships do sometimes use it for navigational purposes.

Another historical point of interest on the island is the Stoney Baynard Ruins. In 1776, Captain John Stoney purchased one thousand acres of land from Beaufort merchant John Mark Verdier and began construction on an elaborate mansion. His son, Captain James Stoney inherited the property and left it to his oldest son, who lost the house and the land surrounding it in a poker game against William Eddings Baynard. Baynard and his wife raised four children in the house and produced South Carolinas most successful Sea Cotton crops on the grounds as well. Today, the ruins of this once vast plantation are one of the most visited historical sites on the island.

For a true archaeological experience, be sure to visit Greens Shell Enclosure Heritage Preserve. This three acre area is a recognized archaeological site dating back to 1300A.D. It is two to six feet high and 35 feet wide at the base, and between 1300 to 1450 A.D. was a fortified village. Today, the area is open during daylight hours and offers visitors the rare glimpse into the past as well as the opportunity to learn more about the many shell monument sites that can be found throughout the island.

There are many other historic points of interest on Hilton Head Island, including various museums, sites, homes, and monuments for you to explore during your next visit. Be sure to bring your camera.