Hilton Head Island to Offer Free Guided Archaeological Tours at Historic Preserve

Hilton Head Island to Host Exciting Archaeological Tours!

Are you ready for a little adventure? Here on beautiful Hilton Head Island, locals and visitors alike have a fantastic opportunity coming up that you won’t want to miss! The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) Heritage Trust is inviting everyone to join them for a free guided tour of one of the area’s oldest heritage sites — the Green’s Shell Enclosure Heritage Preserve.

Mark Your Calendars!

This archaeological tour will unfold from January 7 to January 16, 2025. Imagine walking through a site that dates back as far as 1335 BCE! Talk about a trip back in time! The tours will be led by professional archaeologists, ensuring that you have an engaging and informative experience. And the best part? Each tour will include experimental archaeology demonstrations, giving you a chance to see history come alive right before your eyes!

What to Expect

Each tour is limited to just 15 participants, so it’s a good idea to pre-register to secure your spot. You can easily reserve your place through Eventbrite, so don’t wait too long! The address for the Green’s Shell Enclosure Heritage Preserve is 99 Squire Pope Road, a serene location right next to the marsh beside Skull Creek. It’s the perfect backdrop for a day of exploration and learning.

Unearthing the Past

So, what is this intriguing Green’s Shell Enclosure? Well, this fascinating preserve features an embankment built from discarded shells. This unique construction gives us a glimpse into a long-forgotten way of life. Not only that, but dig deeper into the site, and you’ll discover artifacts like beautifully decorated pottery. These pots feature complicated paddle-stamped designs, along with incising, markings, and appliques that tell stories of the past.

A Fortress of Ancient Times

Based on research from similar sites, experts believe that the Green’s Shell Enclosure may have served as a defensive structure for an ancient village. Envision walls, palisades, and ditches offering protection to those who once made this area their home. With such rich history, it’s no wonder this site was added to the National Register of Historic Places back in 1974.

The Heart of Preservation

In 1991, the SCDNR Heritage Trust Program and the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism came together to protect this 3-acre cultural site left behind by Indigenous people. The town of Hilton Head and SCDNR now share ownership, working hand-in-hand to ensure that this piece of history remains safe and accessible for future generations to learn from and enjoy.

Don’t Miss Out!

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a fun outing with friends or family, these tours at the Green’s Shell Enclosure Heritage Preserve promise to be enlightening and engaging. The intriguing blend of nature and history makes it a perfect spot for a day out!

So get ready to lace up your hiking boots and prepare to step into the past. Reserve your spot early, and who knows? You might walk away with stories and knowledge that will last a lifetime!