Enjoy the Rich History of Edisto Island, South Carolina

Edisto Island is blessed with amazing physical beauty and a wonderful, tranquil way of life that harkens back to another era and has been virtually lost in many of the other sea islands. Life here is very much like it was 50 years ago. And, as the “locals” and regular visitors to Edisto South Carolina know, one of the greatest attributes of our island is its rich history that still comes alive today.

While you’re here, be sure to set time aside to visit the Edisto Island Museum, which is owned and operated by the Edisto Island Historic Preservation Society. Those who came to this island generations ago left a part of themselves behind, things that have a story to tell about the history of Edisto. Our museum preserves this history through photographs and artifacts, which will give you a true “sense of place” that is unique to Edisto. There are still numerous historic structures on Edisto, many of which are not open to the public except once a year when they are on our annual plantation tour. By visiting the Museum, our visitors are able to learn more about the way of life behind those private gates and doors.

One of our most precious assets that is open to the public is the magnificent Botany Bay Plantation Wildlife Management Area. This property consists of nearly 5,000 acres and about three miles of pristine beach, and is the combination of two large plantations, Bleak Hall and Sea Cloud. While neither home is still intact, several historic outbuildings and structures dating from the 1800s remain.

To truly appreciate the historic significance of Botany Bay Plantation, a visit to the Museum is a must. In addition to photographs of Bleak Hall and Sea Cloud, we also have numerous pieces of furniture, china, silver and other artifacts that give our visitors a better understanding of what life was like on these vast plantations. Your Museum visit will help put everything into perspective when you go out to Botany Bay.

Don’t make the mistake of thinking that the Museum is just for adults. We have a wonderful nature room so children can see – and hear – examples of animals native to Edisto Island and the Lowcountry, including snakes, birds, foxes, raccoons and bobcats. Our Museum gift shop carries items for all ages, including educational toys and books.

The Edisto Museum is located at 8123 Chisolm Plantation Road, just off of Highway 174, at the entrance to Middleton Plantation. Our hours are from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m., Tuesdays through Saturdays. For more information, visit our website at www.edistomuseum.org.