Heading to Hilton Head

A peek into the rich cultural heritage of Hilton Head Island is bound to tempt you to make a visit there and delve into its riches.

Many ancient cultures and traditions have become extinct or condensed over passing time and generations. However, this is not true with the Gullah Geechee culture of the Gullah people residing in the sea islands of Georgia and South Carolina.

These islands are situated at the southeastern U.S coast and the natives here call themselves the "Gullah" people and their culture is popularly known as the Gullah Geechee culture. The natives residing in the sea islands of South Carolina are known as the "Gullah" people and the ones at the islands of Georgia are known as the "Geechee" people. Both the Gullah and Geechee have retained their ethnic traditions successfully since the 1700’s.

The Gullah People

The Gullah people; originally African slaves brought to the islands to work on cotton and rice plantations have retained their rich heritage, traditions and culture. Thanks to the geographical boundaries that kept the islands isolated from the rest of the world, they have managed to retain their traditional customs, language, spirituality and traditions like no other African Americans settled in the U.S.

The people here were restricted to the island and the island also did not have any outside visitors; especially after the Civil War. Even after the end of slavery, the Gullah people resided here as a matter of choice. They had their plantations, homes, communities and families here. They lived here in close-knit communities; uninfluenced by the rest of the world, and retained their rich heritage and culture, generation after generation.

Do you know that the first bridge (the James Byrnes Bridge) was built in 1956? This was the first to open automobile traffic from the mainland to the island. The year 1956 marked the beginning of the Hilton Head Island as a resort.

A Hilton Head Tour will give you a clear insight into the rich heritage of this island.

The Hilton Head Island

The Hilton Head Island is a Low County resort town located in South Carolina, United States. This island showcases the true colors of the Gullah people. The island has bicycle riding paths, beautiful beaches, golf courses and more, thus, making it an interesting and adventurous holiday spot. The icing on the cake is the delicious Low County dishes available here.

It is a serene place covered with beautiful spines. Picture yourself taking a relaxing break from the city’s hustle-bustle into nature’s bounty. You can enjoy the walkways, beaches, swimming, bicycling and much more. Gaze at the stars at night and enjoy the beauty of the island. What’s more, you can delve into the classic Gullah Geechee culture, which the people abide by even now. Enjoy their cuisine, folklore, crafts, language, traditions and more. You will be left asking for more.

Include a visit to the neighboring Pinckney Island in your Hilton Head Tour. It will give you an insight into how the Hilton Head appeared before becoming a resort. It also boasts of amazing wildlife.

Aren’t you tempted to plan your Christmas vacation at the Hilton Head? If yes, make your bookings NOW!

The author is a resident of the Hilton Head Island. His fascination with the cultural diversity of the place has inspired him to write attractive articles describing Hilton Head activities.