Native Americans were the first inhabitants of Jekyll Island followed by Spanish priests who established missions, an English army major who raised barley and cattle, and a Frenchman and his slaves who grew cotton but the most well known residents were the wealthy Northern businessmen who built a fancy club house and large cottages. From 1888 until 1942 the island was their exclusive winter retreat accessible by a private ferry or personal yachts. After WWII the entire island became a state park although management was turned over to a state agency, the Jekyll Island Authority, so it’s a little different than a normal state park. The park is self sustaining and doesn’t receive any money from the state. There’s a fee for parking - $10.00 for RVs and $6.00 for cars.
Thirty three of the buildings from the Jekyll Island Club era are still standing. Most have been restored and are private residences or shops. The club house and several of the cottages are now the Jekyll Island Club Hotel. Entry to two cottages is included in the tram tour which leaves from the museum. The museum has a short film and displays about the history of the island. A self guided walking tour passes by all of the club buildings. Informative signs are located in front of each building.
The museum is accessible. The sidewalks along the walking tour are in very good condition. The tram (we didn’t take the tour) has a wheelchair accessible car. I think that the cottages have ramps.
The parking lot at the museum is large enough for any RV. Go across Stable Road to begin the walking tour. Museum
31.05829, -81.41786
We enjoyed Jekyll Island. There was a really big old live oak tree. There was a sign on it saying how old it was. Don't remember but it was old. Didn't like the parking coast. I believe there was also a fee just to get on the island.
ReplyDeleteJekyll Island is really nice. 65% has to be left undeveloped which I like. I'm not sure how the thing with the Jekyll Island Authority works but they say that the fee is necessary to maintain the roads, landscaping, etc. Just one fee though - you pay to get on and they call it a parking fee.
ReplyDelete