Daufuskie Island
Island of the Gullah People
Daufuskie Island was home to a thriving Gullah community descended from enslaved West Africans. Isolated from the mainland, the community preserved distinct traditions and language. When oyster beds collapsed and young people moved away, most of the island was abandoned. Historic churches, a schoolhouse, and cemeteries remain.
Gullah Heritage
The Gullah people maintained African traditions, language patterns, and crafts that faded elsewhere. Daufuskie's isolation protected this heritage.
Modern Era
Pat Conroy taught on Daufuskie and wrote 'The Water is Wide' about the experience. Today, resorts occupy part of the island while ghost town ruins remain in other areas.
Timeline
- 1700s - Settlement Enslaved Africans brought to the island
- 1800s - Peak Thriving Gullah community
- 1950s - Decline Oyster industry collapse, emigration
- 1972 - Literary Fame Pat Conroy's book published
Plan Your Visit
Best Time: Spring or fall
Difficulty: Moderate - boat access required
Time Needed: Half day
Quick Facts
- Accessible only by boat
- Pat Conroy taught school here
- Gullah language still spoken by some
Location
Address: Daufuskie Island, South Carolina
Coordinates: 32.1008, -80.8614