Tybee Island Historical Society Guide
Step Back in Time: Explore Tybee's Rich History Guide
The Tybee Island Historical Society is dedicated to preserving and sharing the fascinating history of this barrier island. Located in a charming historic building, the society offers exhibits, artifacts, and educational programs that bring Tybee's past to life. From its Native American origins to its role in coastal defense and its development as a popular resort destination, the Historical Society provides a comprehensive look at Tybee's unique story. Tybee Island's history stretches back thousands of years, with evidence of Native American settlements dating back to 3000 BC. In the 16th century, Spanish explorers arrived, followed by English colonists. The island played a strategic role in various conflicts, including the American Revolution and the Civil War. Fort Screven, built in the late 19th century, served as a coastal defense installation and is now a preserved historic site. The island's popularity as a vacation destination grew in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, attracting visitors with its beautiful beaches and laid-back atmosphere. Visitors to the Tybee Island Historical Society can explore exhibits featuring artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of the island's past. The society also offers guided tours, lectures, and special events throughout the year. While the Historical Society doesn't have a culinary focus, it can provide insights into the historical foodways of the island, and you can find many restaurants nearby offering traditional Southern cuisine and fresh seafood that reflect the island's coastal heritage.
Transportation
The Tybee Island Historical Society is located on Tybee Island and is best accessed by car. Parking is available on the street and in nearby lots. The Chatham Area Transit (CAT) Route 10 provides bus service to Tybee Island from Savannah. From the bus stop on Tybee, you may need to walk or take a short taxi/rideshare to the Historical Society's specific location.