EXPLORE edisto 2012

2012

edisto

Cassina Point Beauty beyond the beaten path

Learning through

Loggerheads Local Ghost Story Buried alive on Edisto Island

Stalking the Shore

The art of surf fishing on Edisto Beach

Friends, Welcome Back!

It is hard to believe we have already reached our second year creating this great magazine, Explore Edisto. We have a wonderful edition to share with you! The most exciting part of this project has been the community’s eagerness to contribute to our publication.

Our little island is home to some extremely talented writers and photographers. The ma-

Editor

Julie Gyselinck jgyselinck@atwoodvacations.com DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

jority of what you will see in this edition is due to the creativity and hard work of our

Erin Garner

wonderful locals. I am so proud of what they have been able to do with their creative drive

egarner@atwoodvacations.com

and passion for Edisto!

Art Director

Craig McLaughlin mclaughlin design

As a visitor or new resident, you may have questions regarding the life and history of our island, its natives, and longtime residents. I feel this edition of Explore Edisto begins to answer many of those questions. For example, we have a piece about local children and growing up on Edisto. Additionally, we have a feature on Cassina Point Plantation, where many crane their necks to get a glimpse through the trees and wonder, “Who lives there?”.

If your journey on Edisto has just begun or has been a lifelong passion, I hope reading this edition of Explore Edisto will guide your adventure and help answer some of your questions, just as creating it has answered some of mine. I am so proud of my island home and all the treasures it has to share. From the glorious wonders of nature that surround us to each individual who makes up the patchwork of our community, Edisto is as unique a place to live as it is to vacation. We at Atwood understand the distinguished attributes of our island, which is precisely why we love to share it with you year after year.

craig@mclaughlin-design.com Contributors

Marie Asbill Marsh Elliott George “Boochie” Fontaine Julie Gyselinck Meg Hoyle Caroline Matheny Kathleen Smith Ford Walpole Photography

Caroline Matheny Kelly Pettus Jackie Shedrow Cover Photo

Caroline Matheny

So go forth and Explore Edisto, ask your questions and hunt down our history, it is all around you and waiting to be discovered!

Yours on Edisto,

Julie Gyselinck Editor

contents features 3 Cassina Point 6 Local Ghost Story 13 Learning Through Loggerheads 21 Stalking the Shore 26 How to Travel to Edisto 30 Edisto Beach Map 38 Dog Days of Summer 45 Local Tales 56 Plenty of Shrimp

business spotlights 8 King’s Market 10 Island Bikes & Outfitters 16 Whaley’s 18 Edisto Watersports & Tackle 28 McConkey’s Jungle Shack 32 Single Shot Guide Services 34 The Plantation Course at Edisto 36 Grovers Bar and Grill 40 Yeargin Construction 42 Coastal Homeowners Guide 50 Stono Ferry 52 Edisto Beach Pavilion 54 The Waterfront Restaurant & Shore Thing

EXPLORE edisto is published annually by Atwood Vacations Real Estate, 495 Highway 174, Edisto Island, SC 29484. We welcome your letters and comments.

Please send to exploreedisto@ atwoodvacations.com. We are always looking for contributors for our future issues. If you have an interesting story to share or would like to advertise in EXPLORE edisto, please contact Julie Gyselinck. ©2012 Atwood Vacations Real Estate.

All rights reserved.

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Cassina Point, built in 1844, is now a private residence and horse farm.

Cassina Point Beauty beyond the beaten path.

by Julie GYSELINCK & Caroline Matheny

Taking in the beauty of this grand home encompasses senses other than just your sight. It is more than just viewing the home. It is the warm salt air blowing history

the rivers and marsh, and horses calling over the

around your body, the sounds of the rustling grass

(we will get to that later).

pastures. It is a study of all things Edisto. Cassina Point echoes the history of the island, the people (past and present), the agriculture and the movies

at your feet, the wild birds who have flocked for

If you have had the opportunity to delight

centuries to this place, the smell of the salt air over

your feet by stepping foot on Cassina Point you

EXPLORE edisto | 2012

3

to take refuge inland. The intruding union officers found

4

the gardens ripe with veg-

Today, Cassina Point is a private

etables and the smoke houses

home and horse farm for the Earn-

filled with meat still hanging

shaw family. Bruce and Tecla Earn-

inside. The grand house and

shaw are only the second owners of

much needed food allowed

the home outside of the Hopkinson

the delighted soldiers to ex-

family. The restoration took a little

would be hard pressed to imagine

perience the comforts of Southern

over a year and a half and upon com-

not wanting to live here or not hav-

life, if only for a little while.

pletion they operated it as a bed and

ing anything to do with it, ever.

Occupied from 1862-1865 by

breakfast for almost ten years, clos-

In 1844, however, those were the

the 3rd New Hampshire Regimen,

ing it around 2000 allowing them to

exact sentiments of a young Miss

Cassina Point, resting on a bluff

enjoy the home in privacy. That is,

Carolina

Seabrook.

overlooking the water, allowed the

until the movies came calling. 2010

Named by the Marquise de Lafay-

union soldiers to keep an eye out

saw the release of Nicholas Spark’s

ette, Carolina enjoyed the attention

for incoming ships. The objects of

movie, Dear John. Cassina Point

and flattery she received while vis-

their studies were clearly written on

was the main setting for the home

iting Philadelphia. Her entertaining

the walls, and are still visible today.

and beloved horse farm of the main

social life up North was where she

Deep in the belly of the old planta-

character, Savannah.

longed to exist and it was there that

tion home, a secret lies, guarded by

Filming began in 2008 with

she met husband James Hopkin-

owners past and present and de-

over 100 people involved with the

son, the grandson of a New Jersey

lightfully gazed upon by a lucky few.

production. Even the horses got

signer of the Declaration of Inde-

Handmade brick floors and walls

involved and had a few bit parts.

pendence. In his pursuit of Caro-

still echo the voices of the Civil War

Most days, quiet has resumed at

lina, James followed her South

soldiers and planters alike. The lead

this plantation and wedding site on

where his love for her bloomed into

drawings, made by using bullets in-

Edisto. In 2011, Tecla Earnshaw

a love for Edisto as well. Carolina

stead of pencils, wrap around the

and Brenda Morris of Bailey House

accepted his marriage proposal and

room. Ships of all makes and sizes,

Plantation

plans for a plantation home were

names and ranks, dates, and even

to form “Plantation Weddings and

drawn, but the lumber for Cassina

formulas for fertilizer were written

Events,” allowing a few lucky brides

Point rested on the property for

on the walls and doors in chalk over

to feel like the graceful lady of the

three years before Carolina agreed

150 years ago. A makeshift school

house, if only for a day.

for their home to be built.

room was used for union soldiers

As the afternoon sun glows

Time, as it does, passed. Children

to learn about the enemies’ naval

bright around the house, standing

were born and fortunes were made

capacity and identify and log infor-

tall and ever

on the rich Sea Island Cotton that

mation on blockade runners trying

grounds, time still moves by but

was planted. When the Civil War

to sneak supplies up river and alter

seems to leave no stamp on this

crept close to home, the islanders

the course of the war. It is truly a

well-loved and maintained home.

were ordered to evacuate by Gen.

time capsule, and is probably the

Perhaps it is like a keeper of time

Robert E. Lee. The Hopkinson fam-

only sample of handwriting still in

and of memories for three families

ily left their home on Cassina Point

existence of those who put it there.

and soldiers unknown.

Lafayette

combined

enterprises

watching over the

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5

Julia’s crypt at the Edisto Presbyterian Church Cemetery

Local Ghost Story Buried Alive on Edisto Island by marie asbill

6

AS A small sea island community, Edisto is steeped with supernatural mystery.

With fourteen churches, historic plantation homes and a Gullah community, Edisto is a Petri dish for the supernatural.

cian and around the age of twenty-two, the young

When delving into Edisto’s rich history, one will in-

rest inside the rusty brown mausoleum situated

evitably come across a ghost story. One of Edisto’s

behind the Presbyterian Church and sealed shut

most popular ghost stories surrounds the Legare

with a heavy marble door. A few days after her

mausoleum at the Presbyterian Church. According

funeral service, a graveyard worker noticed some-

to island legend, young Julia Legare (pronounced

thing odd. The heavy marble door that separat-

La-Gree) was accidentally buried alive!

ed Julia from the living world was open. After a

girl caught a case of malaria that eventually reduced her body to a coma-like state. When doctors arrived they were unable to find Julia’s pulse, and she was declared dead. Her body was laid to

By most accounts, Julia was a sickly child. Her

closer examination it was discovered that the door

bedside was in the frequent company of a physi-

had caved in and that Julia’s body lay on the floor

atwoodvacations.com | 843.869.2151

among the pieces. Her fingernails were broken and worn down, and scratch marks could be seen on the pieces of broken marble. Everyone soon came to believe that Julia was not actually dead when she was sealed inside the mausoleum and almost certainly experienced an agonizing death while trapped inside. The ground inside the mausoleum was opened and Julia’s remains were buried. A second marble door sealed the building shut but then was discovered mysteriously broken; leaving the building open once again. This lead to speculation that her spirit wanted the tomb to remain open!

The mausoleum no longer contains remains from earlier burials, the bodies were exhumed and relocated, and the marble door fragments were embedded into the present floor.

w Ne eRS N Ow

GOOd. BetteR.

114 Jungle Road • edisto Beach

843-869-5000

For years, visitors have claimed to have heard crying and seen shadows around that part of the graveyard.

This is only one of the many legendary tales from Edisto’s past. The ancient moss draped oaks, the iconic palmetto tree, and the unpredictable Atlantic all evoke stories of mystery.

Whether it’s a jilted lover, a bereft bride or a desperate parent, stories that span the decades come alive on this enchanting island. One can only imagine the stories yet to unfold!

Marie Asbill is a local guide of The Pink Van Tour and can be reached at (843) 603-0967.

EXPLORE edisto | 2012

7

King’s Market

Come on Down to the Farm!

Tucked away on a little island community and surrounded by acres of growing produce sits King’s Market. If buying

produce enough for the roadside stand. Rett is a sixth

vegetables and fruit straight from the farm sounds

and sells what is in season at the time. From sweet

right up your alley, pull over on your way into Edisto.

corn in June and July to Christmas trees and wreaths

Fresh produce isn’t all you will find at King’s. Sur-

in December, there is always something to add to your

prises and treats abound in every corner. Stop in and

visit to Edisto.

take a look around. You will be glad you did.

generation farmer on Edisto.

King’s Market is open from March to December

The roadside stand concept started with son Jamie

King’s Farm Market consists of 100 acres of prime

selling extra vegetables on Little Britton Road just off

farmland that has scaled down to about 14 acres of

of State Highway 174. He started it with an old crock

sweet corn and three acres of flowers, okra, squash,

pot, that had been a butter churn, for a cash regis-

cucumbers, peppers, and sunflowers. The sunflowers

ter and an “Honest Pot” when he wasn’t around. The

are sold as cut flowers, and what is not sold is left for

table had vegetables and fruits with a hand written

the birds. Many of the items that Bonnie and Rett

sheet of prices. Passersby would stop and take what

King sell are grown right on the farm. They have re-

they wanted and leave the money in the jar. It was the

duced the acreage to the point of being profitable to

true honor system. When he was 16, he moved to the “Big” highway on 174, and from there

Asparagus & Crab Quiche

the small vegetable market took off.

The present building contains mod-

1 cup cooked chopped crab meat 1 9 inch pie crust 4 oz. Parmesan cheese 1 3/4 cup milk 3 eggs

10 asparagus spears Nutmeg Salt Cayenne pepper

1. Sprinkle crab meat in the bottom of the pie shell.

2. Cut asparagus into 1/2 inch slices and scatter over the top of the crab.

3. Sprinkle cheese on top.

4. Beat eggs and mix with milk.

5. Season to taste with nutmeg, salt and pepper.

6. Bake in a 350 degree oven for about 45 minutes.

7. Let sit for 15 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

8

ern refrigerated coolers full of hand made pies and “double yolk” eggs. The pies are made by two ladies in the new kitchen on Little Britton Road. One of the great things you’ll find at King’s Market is the boiled peanuts. Rett boils about two bushels each day and sells them all. It’s amazing to watch people who have never had boiled peanuts when they try them for the first time.

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ist

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Island Bikes & Outfitters

At Island Bikes & Outfitters, if you need it, we’ve got it!

Island Bikes and Outfitters opened its doors in June of 2001 by owners Tony and Sonya. Tony moved to Edisto Beach with his family at the age of six when his grandfather was the superintendent of the Edisto Beach State park. His

expanded again to include parasailing, Jet Ski rentals,

Mom married Henry Collins, of the Collins Pavil-

destroyed the Planters Oak Restaurant where Sonya

ion, and grew up spending many summers working

was employed. Sonya reopened the Blue Marlin Bar

the arcade and snack bar. He rented fishing tackle

for the Collins’ family in 1990.

and surf boards at the pier and ran the Blue Marlin Bar located inside the Pavilion. Tony and his fam-

10

charters and Big Banana rides at the Edisto Marina.

Sonya spent her childhood summers on Edisto Beach before becoming a permanent resident in 1983. After the devastation of Hurricane Hugo and the excitement of a white Christmas in 1989, a fire

Tony and Sonya married in 1994, and their son was born in May of 1995.

ily lived in the house right next door to the bike

In 2000, Tony’s parents decided to leave the city

shop on Jungle Road, now known as the Coldwell

life for one down on the farm. They sold the house

Banker Building.

on Jungle Road and made Tony and Sonya an offer

In 1990, Tony began renting bikes at the gas station

they couldn’t refuse on the empty lot next door. Con-

owned by his family. In 1992, Island Rentals was born

struction on Island Bikes and Outfitters began in the

and Tony extended his fleet to the grassy area and

fall of 2000. Tony was instrumental in the design and

parking lot of the gas station. From the rental shack,

construction of the building. In June of 2001, they

visitors to Edisto Beach rented bikes, four-wheeled

opened the doors. They have expanded their business

bikes, kayaks, golf carts, chairs, umbrellas, tubes,

to offer a full gift shop stocked with many fun items,

rafts, surfboards, boogie boards and fishing tackle!

souvenirs, jewelry, clothing, bait and tackle, biking

All from a little shack! Always the entrepreneur, Tony

and kayaking accessories.

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Kayak Tours

Thank You!

Located on the Bike Path Next door to Waterfront Restaurant & Across from the Sea Cow

Tony & Sonya Spainhour Owners

Kayaks • Golf Carts • Canoes • Bait/Tackle • Bikes • Beachwear

Visit Our Gift Shop, Open Daily at 9 am On the Bike Path

Delivery Available

RENTALS · Adult Bikes · Child Bikes · Tandems · Baby Seats · 4 Wheel Bikes · 3 Wheel Bikes · Fun Cycles · Beach Carts · Tag Alongs · Tubes & Rafts

Kayaks, Canoes, Bait/Tackle & Much More!

Rentals by the hour, 1/2 day, full day, 3 day & weekly.

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· Baby Tow Carts Bikes & Accessories: Jamis · Electra · Worksman Cycles · Torker · Fishing Tackle Redline · Burley · Trailmate · Hampton Cruisers · Beach Chairs · Beach Umbrellas Kayaks, Canoes & Accessories: Ocean Kayak · Walden · Wilderness System · TV/VCR/DVD Mad River · Windrider Sailboats · Stand-up Paddleboards · Surf & Boogie Boards Golf Cart Sales · Canoes/Kayaks · Stand-up Paddleboards GIFT & SURF SHOP · Gas Grills · Golf Carts T-Shirts · Hats · Beachwear · Umbrellas · Souvenirs Beach Toys & Games · Surf & Boogie Boards

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Baby Loggerhead born on Edisto begins its journey to the ocean.

Learning through Loggerheads Teaching Local Children about the Loggerhead Life Cycle by megan hoyle

“It was the best experience of my life!” exclaimed young Megan to her parents. On an overnight camping trip she had just witnessed an exhilarating event: the emergence of sea turtle hatchlings from their sandy nest and their crawl

down the beach to the sea, the first step in a life cycle that is 200 million years old.

Megan’s overnight experience is a perfect example of how Learning through Loggerheads (LtL), an Edisto non-profit, draws Lowcountry youngsters to the outdoors where learning comes naturally.

Botany Bay Ecotours According to Meg Hoyle, “Edisto is the type of place I would vacation if I didn’t already live here.” Meg is the owner of Botany Bay Ecotours, the only biologist owned tour business on Edisto. “Edisto has an amazing blend of natural and cultural history. The people are interesting, the food is fresh, and there is no end to the exploration that can be done on the island. The reason people enjoy our tours is that we point out the connec-

“Sea turtles are captivating ani-

tion, genetics, conservation, and

and cultural history.” For example, Bot-

mals,” explains LtL director, Meg

personal responsibility. For many

any Bay Plantation is open to the public

Hoyle. “If we want students to

students, this is their first ‘real job’

and is the largest singly held property

enjoy science and get involved in

and we work with them to make

on the island. It’s a beautiful area with

science learning, we need to cre-

sure they have the skills necessary

a variety of habitats, but there are some

ate experiences where they come

to apply for and keep a job.”

amazing stories about the people who

into contact with these incredible

Everyone who lives or vacations on

have lived there and the ecosystem

creatures. Edisto is fortunate to

Edisto can help with Loggerhead con-

they lived within. Meg says, “Just driv-

have a nesting population of the

servation by picking up trash along the

ing through the area is one thing, but to

threatened Loggerhead sea turtle,

beach and turning off outside lights

find out that Edisto’s first women-owned

so experiential learning is avail-

at night during the summer nesting

business happened here in the 1800’s

able during the summer school

season. If you would like to pass on a

and was a partnership between a slave

break. Being a student intern with

conservation ethic to the next genera-

owner and freed slave, makes one stop

LtL means patrolling the town

tion and help preserve Edisto for the

to think about what life has been like

and state park beaches at dawn

future, consider a donation to Learn-

for people on this island. What brought

during the summer and perform-

ing through Loggerheads and come

nomadic people here more than 3,000

ing all the duties a biologist does

join us along the beach at 6:30 am

years ago to create rings made out of

to protect the turtle nests and col-

to meet the students and learn more

millions of oyster shells? We only have

lect important data. The students

about our state reptile!

theories, but one thing is certain: this

learn to read a crawl to find the

land has stories. That’s what we enjoy

eggs, protect the eggs from preda-

Meg Hoyle is the director of the

tors, and collect data that is used

Edisto based non-profit Learning

in the national recovery plan for

through Loggerheads and can be

the threatened Loggerhead turtle.

reached at (843) 469-0052 or by

Through LtL’s programs, students

mail at: PO Box 682, Edisto Is-

assist with other conservation

land, SC 29438. All donations are

programs on Edisto and, in the

tax deductible. For more informa-

process, learn about data collec-

tion, visit www.ltlonline.org.

sharing with people: the stories of the land and the people.”

To learn more about the area, stop by the Botany Bay Ecotours headquarters located at the Gatehouse at Botany Bay Plantation (7760 Botany Bay Road).

14

Photo by Jackie Shedrow 843.442.9039

tions that abound between the natural

atwoodvacations.com | 843.869.2151

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“Creating Vacation Memories that will last a lifetime.”

With These Hands is a collection of hand made crafts by professional american Craftsmen from all over the United States.

Kaleidoscopes Wind Chimes Jewelry Hand Blown Glass Stained Glass Pottery

Ceramics

Paint your own Ceramics Custom Painted Platters Scrapbooking Studio

Scrapbooking

Edisto Originals Melted Bottles & Wind Chimes Edisto Shadow Boxes

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Handcrafts

843-869-0075 8548 Raccoon Island Road

Edisto Island, SC • 866-836-0075 (toll-free)

Oil Lamps Wooden Toys Wooden Sculptures & Decoys Metal Local Artwork Originals, Giclee’s, Prints and more …

Gift Certificates and gift Wrapping available A Gallery of American Crafts 1444 Highway 174 • Edisto Island, SC 843-869-3509 www.WithTheseHandsGallery.com

OPEN YEAR-ROUND Top 100 Retailer of American Crafts

15

Whaley’s

Nostalgia blooms in the strangest of places, including old gas stations. Whaley’s blossomed in just such a place, taking an

Lytle Prichard, to provide great tasting and quality

abandoned gas station and transforming it into quite

life, featuring live music from local artists and trivia

possibly the most quintessential beach dive on the

often hosted by co-owner Lytle Prichard on the week-

food on this tiny barrier island.

Whaley’s offers visitors a glimpse into true island

east coast. First opened as a con-

ends. Sit outside at the picnic tables

venience store in 1948 by Marion

around the flowers and gas pumps

Whaley and operated until his death

from the 1950s or beat the heat in-

in 1995, the building maintains

side in a booth or at the bar. The

much of its original character, in-

owners update the menu frequently,

cluding vintage gas pumps.

keeping it fresh and exciting while

Owner Van Maxwell created his

maintaining the staples and quality

establishment from scratch in 2003

that people have come to expect. The

and bit by bit Whaley’s has become

local shrimp, fried or steamed, can’t

a staple for locals and visitors alike.

Known for its casual but quirky atmosphere and fresh local seafood,

!

ley’s Thanks Wha

you won’t want to miss this hot spot

16

be beaten. And, for the land lovers, the Big Ugly Burger is an unbeatable favorite. Paired with the fabulous fresh “raw fries” (think thin sliced

of fabulous food. In May of 2007, Whaley’s received

and fried to order potato chips), you will be delighted

the prestigious recognition of being voted one of the

you stopped in.

Top 25 Seafood Dives in the country by Coastal Liv-

A wonderful establishment with a great vibe and

ing magazine. It was a true testament to the dedica-

fabulous food, Whaley’s is a must for visitors of Ed-

tion and devotion of the owners, Van Maxwell and

isto Beach.

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OF THE FAMOUS

TIMES LOCAL Tue – SaT: Lunch 11:30am - 2:30pm | Dinner 5pm -9pm | TakeouT 843-869-2161 | 2801 Myrtle St. | edisto Beach | whaleyseb.com

Edisto Watersports & Tackle

If you are looking for some adventure during your vacation, Edisto Watersports might be just up your alley. Situated on

points to view Indian mounds, dolphins, and coastal

Docksite Road, Edisto Watersports offers all kinds

uled with the tides so you will have easy paddling in

of fun for every budget.

both directions.

years of combined experience. All tours are sched-

Edisto Watersports is locally owned and operated

If you are looking for something less physical

by Lindsey and Dillard Young, who strive to make

but with just as much adventure, check out the two

sure your chosen activity is fun!

hour scenic river cruise through the beautiful ACE

Lindsey is a master naturalist and Dillard had

Basin. Sit back and relax as the captains point out

the first charter boat on Edisto in 1990. Edisto

dolphins, arrays of sea birds, abundant wildlife, and

Watersports helps you enjoy fishing on many dif-

some spectacular sunsets, all while sharing the his-

ferent levels. Charter fishing trips range from three

tory of the islands. Experience a great way to enjoy

to seven hours. Nearshore bottom fishing and in-

the beautiful salt marsh creeks and rivers with friends

shore fishing take you out to wrangle in sea bass,

and family, and don’t forget to bring your camera and

shark, whiting, croaker, spotted trout and more.

binoculars. Alligator tours and shelling excursions

Offshore trips are seven hours (six people) and the

are also offered.

fishing can range from Spanish and king mackerel

Edisto Watersports has more than just the tours

to barracuda, snapper, and trigger fish. For those

and charters. The ship store offers bait and tackle,

looking for a smaller trip, Edisto Watersports of-

snacks, drinks, ice, souvenirs, t-shirts, and fishing

fers kayak rentals and guided kayaking tours for

pole rentals.

the whole family.

The two hour guided kayak tour takes you through the winding ACE Basin creeks and various vantage

18

wildlife. They have three guides with more than 30

If discovering Edisto’s bountiful beauty and water life is your goal, stop by, as the “EWS Gang” would love to show you the island’s wild side!

atwoodvacations.com | 843.869.2151

Experience Edisto ‌ the Way Nature Intended

Bait & Tackle Shelling Excur Kayak Tours & ACE Basin Rive

Sales

sions Rentals

r & Sunset Cru

Inshore & Offsh Cooler Supplie

ore Fishing Ch

s: Beer, Soda &

3731 Docksite Road

ises

arters

Snacks

EDISTO WATERSPORTS & TACKLE | Edisto Island | South Carolina | 843.869.0663 | www.edistowatersports.biz

Will Stevens | Owner 843.209.7393 | cell 843.869.2621 | office stevensirrigate@aol.com

Lawn Maintenance & Fertilizer Program | Irrigation Installation & Repair Driveway & Landscape Lighting & Design | Hardscape Design & Installation

history

makes all the difference.

Born in Columbia, I grew up in the Lowcountry of South Carolina and have been a resident of the Edisto area for more than 35 years. Quite simply, I know Edisto. So if you’re ready to make Edisto your home or you’re interested in purchasing an investment property, let me put my love, passion and knowlege of Edisto and the Lowcountry to work for you.

20

Walker Moore

843.893.8261 | walkergmoore@aol.com 495 Highway 174 | Post Office Box 10 Edisto Island | South Carolina 29438 atwoodvacations.com

atwoodvacations.com | 843.869.2151

Surf Fishing is not just about skill but about family time for this Dad and Son.

Stalking the Shore The Art of Surf Fishing by ford walpole

An age-old and inexplicably obvious observation notes that people on the beach are always looking in the same direction: at the water. Their eyes fixed with

The infinite thoughts of such surf-gazers offer creative fodder for poets, painters, and philosophers. Of course, the musings of those beach goers wielding a rod and reel are a bit easier to reckon. These folks do

much of that curious intensity of the rural cur,

not study a life across the ocean, but rather the living

propped on its haunches in his own yard, tirelessly

world beneath. Prestigious tournaments, extravagant

staring off into an apparent nothingness.

boats, and commercialism sometimes overshadow

Cruise on by for

Great Local Food

the enduring surf fisherman, who passionately and majestically retains a primeval simplicity.

Angling in the surf offers far more benefits than fishing from a boat. My friend, Captain Gresh Meggett, III, of Absolute Reel Screamers Charters, points out the increased comfort: “You can relax in chairs, spread out, and eat your lunch.” Wayne Haltiwanger, who has spent a lifetime fishing our state’s shores, notes the increased

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social opportunities, explaining,

Open 7 am Daily

843-869-3222

145 A Jungle Road, Edisto, SC

“It’s a family affair; there’s something at the beach for everybody.”

A more conducive setting for children, the beach inspires walking, swimming, sunbathing, relaxing, and playing. Gresh’s son, Gresh IV, is eight, and naturally too restless to fish with the intensity of his

Start right. Start here.

father and grandfather. So, he explores the beach with a cast net and catches bait. I recently embarked on a fishing adventure to Botany

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Bay Preserve with three generations of Puckette fishermen: Dr. Elliott, Trap, and Trap Junior. Young Trap likewise occupied himself with artfully being a boy: splashing in the water, running down the beach, collecting and skipping shells, and occasionally wetting his line—activities impossible to perform from the confinement of a boat.

Still, fishing is a seashore unifier.

Wayne continues, “Then, when you catch a fish, it brings the whole family back together; they all run

843-869-4420 • 487 Hwy. 174 Edisto • M-Sat 8 am - 6 pm 22

over to see. All of a sudden, every-

atwoodvacations.com | 843.869.2151

BAIT body wants a rod!”

Intrinsic rewards are the true divi-

A consensus among surf fishermen is

While fishing is often a solitary ac-

dends of all educators. Kattie recalls

that fresh mullet is ideal bait. From spring

tivity, it is never lonely, nor is it ever

an especially rewarding lesson for

through summer, finger mullet can be

individual. The angler is well-attuned

teacher and student, “Once, while

caught from the beach by cast net with

to his obligation to pass on the sport

fishing at Morris Island, a little girl

relative certainty. Some prefer to hook

of fishing. Wayne remarks, “Half of

told me that she didn’t think that she

the entire live mullet, but Captain Gresh

the fun of fishing is teaching others

was going to catch any fish; this was

prefers cut mullet, which “puts out more

and kids. To me, that is the beauty of

her first time. When I asked her why,

scent.” Live shrimp is also good, though

catching a fish: showing how to set

she said that she just had bad luck.

sometimes strong current and blue

up, what to bait with, and where to fish. It’s all about the kids.”

“So, I showed her how everything worked, taught her how to cast,

crabs prevent shrimp from remaining on the hook.

He also reminds us that fishermen

and off she went. Well, about a half

includes the fairer sex. He boasts

hour went by, and all of a sudden,

Mud minnows and striped killifish, or

that his wife, Teresa, is a far better

I heard screaming down the beach.

mummichogs,

angler than he, a distinction Wayne

When I got to her, the line was

source of live bait and can be trapped

shares with this writer. Clara Childs

screaming off the spool. I assumed

in creeks. For convenience, McMillan’s

Puckette, Elliott’s mother, was quite

that she didn’t have her drag set

students primarily use frozen shrimp and

skillful in the lost art of casting a

tight, so I reached down to tighten

squid. Finally, Wayne often cuts up small

hand-line. One of my own favorite

it and realized that it was as tight

whiting for bait.

images depicts my daughter, Eng-

as it could go. She just kept fighting

lish Calhoun, who is fishing on Ed-

and fighting, and she finally got the

Artificial baits may be cast from the

isto Beach with her Uncle Wilson.

fish to the shore. There on the other

beach to land bluefish and Spanish

With one hand she is holding up a

end of her line was a 2 ½ ft. Atlantic

mackerel. While artificial bait is popular

prized bluefish, and with the other

Sharpnose Shark. She was so excit-

in the clearer water of the Outer Banks,

she is clasping her nose. Like pluff

ed she could barely contain herself.

when surf fishing in the South Caro-

mud, some of the scents of the sea

“Well, then it was time to let it

lina Lowcountry, Tim “does not have the

go, and I had decided to just detach

confidence in artificial lures” that he

DNR’s Kattie McMillan is a

the leader and leave the hook in. Of

does in “live bait, which has smell and

Marine Educator with the Caro-

course, she found this plan unac-

live action.”

lina Coastal Discovery Program.

ceptable – even after I tried to ex-

Although this female angler denies

plain that the hook would come out

In the deeper, clearer water acces-

being an expert, her very profession

in a few days. So we went about re-

sible by the pier, artificial baits such as

seeks to pay forward the art of surf

moving the hook. We pulled some-

Gotcha plugs are effective in catching

fishing. “The objective of the FABu-

what of a Crocodile Hunter move.

Spanish mackerel with an eight-pound-

lous (Fishing And Barrier island) Se-

About five minutes later, the shark

test spinning outfit. “The lure involves a

ries is to reach out to students from

was hook free and off on his way.

special retrieve a foot under the water

economically depressed areas of the

I don’t think I’ve ever seen a bigger

— the faster the better.”

Lowcountry who would not other-

smile or anyone as happy as she was

wise have the chance to experience

that day!”

are an acquired fragrance.

natural resource related activities or explore barrier island ecosystems.”

EXPLORE edisto | 2012

are

another

hardy

The angling tradition continues because of such memories, which

23

TACKLE & GEAR With respect to gear, Captain Gresh fishes with inshore rods seven to eight feet in length, spinning reels outfitted with 12-15-pound test line, a leader of 20-pound monofilament with a double, bottom rig, and a two-ounce pyramid sinker. Wayne advises that pyramid sinkers “hold better in the surf and keep the line tighter.” In fact, he starts out with a one-ounce sinker and moves up in weight as needed — “just

enrich each new expedition. It is not

the Puckettes on some of these trips,

enough to keep it out past the breakers”.

difficult to understand the chosen

but all he recalls are trophy spottail

career path of Captain Gresh, who

bass, or red drum.

Snoots proclaims that some of the best fish-

reflects, “When I was about seven,

The vastness of the beach can be

ermen he knows “now fish with circle hooks

I was surf fishing with Daddy on

overwhelming to the fisher-folk try-

— for everything from sheepshead to spot-

Morris Island, right in front of the

ing to determine where to fish. As a

tail bass.” This hook was initially engineered

lighthouse. I hooked a 14-pound

lifelong surfer, Gresh the Surf Fish-

for commercial long-liners. Because of

black drum. I wasn’t strong enough

erman is innately aware of his envi-

the design, the hook does not catch until

to reel, so Daddy told me to walk

ronment. “Usually, a beach that is

it rounds a corner; consequently, the fish is

back up the beach. I must have

going to have good waves is going to

hooked in the lip or jaw, and far less likely to

backed up 100 yards before I

have sand bars. Wherever there are

be “gut-hooked.” The angler must remem-

brought it in!”

sand bars, there is bait, and there’s

ber, however, not to “set” the circle hook,

As a boy, Elliott tagged along

or jerk the rod upon a strike; rather, wait for

with his father, Stephen Elliott

He instructs us on reading a

the hook to rotate into position and set itself.

Puckette, who liked to fish the north

beach: “When the waves come in,

end of the Isle of Palms, in the days

they break on a sand bar. What I

Rather than pulling a fishing cart, John car-

when the road stopped far short of

want to do is find a cut through the

ries his gear in an inexpensive backpack.

this destination. “I don’t remember

sand bar. I take the boat up behind

He takes along a rod and reel, a handful

anything about the fishing, but I

the outer sand bars an hour before

of sinkers and hooks, and a cast net and

certainly remember all of the walk-

dead low tide. I anchor and walk to

empty bait bucket for finger mullet. “If

ing,” he chuckles.

the outer edge, where I fish until the

game fish.”

Elliott’s son, Trap, now an ocean-

a cooler, a chair, big surf rods, and sand

ographer, shares similar memories of

Gresh clarifies, “I don’t fish if

spikes.” Sand spikes are mobile rod hold-

fishing on Deveaux Bank with his fa-

the surf is really good, because the

ers. Most spikes available for purchase are

ther. He describes trekking through

waves will roll your sinker, and

the sand and burdened with gear like

the current will wash it up on the

some desert refugee. These outings

beach. However, you want some

often were aided by homemade carts,

wave action because it stirs up the

which were cumbersome in them-

bait. Without some turbulence, fish

selves. My brother Jay accompanied

do not bite; fish feed more on smell

about two feet long which can be fashioned from 1½-inch PVC pipe, the bottom of which should be cut at an angle in order to anchor in the sand.

24

Photo by Caroline matheny

you are going after the big fish, you pack

tide forces me back to my boat.”

atwoodvacations.com | 843.869.2151

and instinct.”

DNR biologist and fishing author John Archambault shares

mole crabs, “a favorite of pompano, black drum, sheepshead, croaker, spot, and whiting.”

this angler’s predatory perspective:

When seeking these smaller, tast-

“Whether I’m hunting squirrels or

ier fish, John uses light line, small

fishing, I do not want to be in the

hooks, and a small rod. “I don’t use

middle of a homogeneous environ-

a sand spike; I only cast out about

ment. I am going to look for an

ten yards. I’m holding my rod the en-

edge, or I am going to key in on

tire time, and I am always moving.”

something different: features like

He contrasts this light-tackle fishing

inlets, points and groins, because

with the pursuit of trophy spottail

these differences often cause bait

bass at such locations as Murphy Is-

and fish to concentrate.”

land and Cape Island, home of the

“Beaches are made of bowls,

Cape Romain lighthouse. “With a

points, and returns,” John explains.

big rod, you are looking to anchor.”

“South Carolina beaches tend to

Combating human nature is also

show zig-zag patterns with sand bars

crucial for the surf fishermen. For

running diagonally out from the

instance, John indicates that “70

beach, and behind them are sloughs,

percent of the people I see surf fish-

where pools of water form at low

ing are casting beyond the fish.”

tide. Waves are constantly pushing

Confirming this observation, Cap-

water up the beach, but it doesn’t

tain Gresh adds, “People tend to

flow back to sea uniformly. Where

think: the bigger the water, the big-

the water flows back out through the

ger the fish. Actually, fish are in the

slough is a ‘return,’ also called a rip-

surf zone: from the water’s edge out

tide. Because these returns wash bait

to where the waves initially break.

out, they can be good places to fish,

Sometimes, the fish are right at the

but they are tide dependent.”

breaking point; other times, they

Archambault considers surf fish-

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are right off the beach in the surf.”

ing methods to be determined by

John’s friend and fishing partner,

target. For instance, when he seeks

Tim Snoots, DNR biologist and in-

“pan-fry species,” he fishes light. “In

formation technology director, notes

my school days, I liked going to the

that “another mistake I see is people

north end of Pawleys.” He describes

with too much hardware. Their rigs

mole crabs, a plentiful bait source in

are too complicated, and their hooks

that area. “Where receding waves

are too big. Instead of using a whole

form a sheet G of an inch thick, you

shrimp and a big hook, use N of a

see a series of ripples in the shape

shrimp on a small hook.” Fresh bait

of the letter ‘V’.” Those interrup-

is important, but not essential, “es-

tions in the water are formed by fil-

pecially since red drum are such op-

tering antennae of the thumb-sized

portunistic feeders.”

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EXPLORE edisto | 2012

25

How to Travel to Edisto

From Charleston, SC Airport: Take International Blvd to I-526 W toward Savannah.

Turn right onto Savannah/US-17 S. Take slight left onto SC-162 W until you get to SC-174.

Turn left onto SC-174.

Edisto Beach is just a few scenic miles away.

(Total est. time: 1 hr., 11 min. / approx. 48 miles).

From Savannah, GA Airport: Go West on Airways Ave. toward Blue Rental Rd. Merge onto I-95 N. Take US-17 N (exit #33 toward Charleston/Beaufort).

Turn right onto SC-174.

Edisto Beach is just a few scenic miles away.

(Total est. time: 2 hrs, 25 min / approx. 103 miles)

If You nEED It, wE rEnt It. BIKEs, KAYAKs, GOLF CARTs, BEACh ChAIRs, umBRELLAs, LINENs & mORE!

FREE DELIVERY & PICK-UP In thE EDIsto BEaCh aREa.

EDIsto

EssEntIaLs

CALL AHEAD! We do not keep rental items at the store. In the peak season, we deliver throughout the day. Call ahead for reservations to ensure availability for bikes and linens during the summer months. In the off season, we have SET delivery times. Call early to ensure the availablilty!

26

Bike Rentals & more

843-869-0951

www.edistoessentials.com Edisto Island • Edisto Beach atwoodvacations.com | 843.869.2151

Beach groins offer one form of the

Archambault describes the re-

one winter and he could not find

predator’s edge that Archambault

markable diversity of the fishing

any bait, so he shot a squirrel in the

mentions. These structures, initially

pier: “My first impression is the

jungle on the back side of Edisto

made of wood and later refurbished

cross section of abilities. You might

Beach. Using that squirrel’s liver as

by rocks, are intended to slowly

have a tourist from Ohio who is

bait, he caught a thirty-pound spot-

inhibit the current. Tim explains,

trying to get a freshwater bass rig

tail bass in the surf!”

“Groins give you a hard substrate,

to work. Then, you have two hard-

As for the ideal time of day to

which is a good place for bait. The

core guys on the end, fishing for

catch fish in the surf, Snoots and

currents are stronger at the tip, and

king mackerel with an elegant pin-

Archambault prefer dusk. Tim de-

form small eddies” near the struc-

rig, or trolley-rig, which is like an

scribes this twilight: “It is like a

tures. Captain Gresh suggests that

outrigger from the pier. But, every-

magic switch goes off, reels begin

the plentiful groins on Folly Beach

body’s having fun.”

to scream, and every rod on the

enhance surf fishing from that

An avid pier fisherman, Tim

pier bends over at once!” Perhaps

laughs with the welcomed novice,

all fishing tips should be heeded

Aside from the shore, tidal pools

reminding us that this archetype

with a grain of salt, though. You

serve as another locale for the beach

provides added entertainment to

must factor in trade secrets, per-

angler in search of the pan-fry spe-

the pier. “I have seen entire Christ-

sonal preference, ambience, and

cies. Tim points out that pools are

mas trees of tackle cast from the

ultimately your quarry’s ignorance

advantageous “because you can

pier. You also see tourists having

of and disregard for such pointers.

fish either side.” He indicates an

a ball landing a 12-inch sharpnose

For instance, while John and Tim

especially appealing pool, which

shark.” Of course, the pier serves as

recommend evening fishing, Wayne

exists on Isle of Palms, H a mile

a classroom for the amateur, since

loves “morning fishing, especially

from Breech Inlet. This body of wa-

seasoned fishermen — typically —

after a dark night. I feel like fish

ter “is enormous. It is several hun-

are eager to talk shop with those

feed all night after a full moon, but

dred yards wide and H a mile long;

who share their passion.

the morning is more active after a

beach.

of course, it changes every year.”

At the Folly Pier, Snoots observes

These pools provide easier fishing

a “dedicated group of locals who

and warmer, more tranquil water

target sheepshead, black drum, and

abounds regarding tides. John ex-

for youngsters.

trout, and to a lesser extent, floun-

plains that “people seem to prefer

der, which are more difficult to

a flood tide, believing the fish tend

catch amid the higher concentration

to come closer to the beach on the

for surf fishing enthusi-

of silt around Charleston.” These

flood,” yet adding, “but this may

asts who wish to avoid the sand, or

folks work right outside of the

not be true.” Tim continues, “There

perhaps desire to cast their lines far-

breakers, and move with the tide.

is better water clarity at high tide—

dark night.”

The

same

conflicting

advice

ther out, angling from one of South

Spring through autumn is the best

it’s nice and green on the beach.

Carolina’s many fishing piers is yet

time of year to surf fish, which con-

At the end of the ebb, the water is

another great option. Tim says, “the

veniently coincides with the most

muddy,” he explains.

wheelchair accessible pier offers the

enticing months to visit the beach.

Yet Tim continues to confound us,

ultimate in convenience; it is a low-

Nonetheless, do not write off the

adding with a smile, “but the fishing

cost access to different areas of the

colder months. Elliott relays a won-

might be fantastic as the mullet come

surf you couldn’t get to otherwise.”

derful tale: “My father went fishing

EXPLORE edisto | 2012

continued on page 57

27

McConkey’s Jungle Shack

A Beach Restaurant with Flavor, Spunk and Character!

Crispy fish tacos, tender seasoned chicken breast in the middle of a toasted bun, fried to perfection mushrooms, precisely rolled

Jungle Shack Chef Marsh Elliott.

wraps filled with turkey, pepper jack cheese, local to-

sphere and the friendly staff” (LynnSC8) and “burg-

matoes, romaine and homemade buttermilk ranch

ers are outstanding” (Mrs. Frederick), “Great Sweet

dressing … Mmmmmm, hungry yet?

tea” (jen81chastain), and “I can’t wait to go back

These lunch and dinner items (and more) are at your

28

Some recent comments gathered from online reviews include: “We loved the beach shack atmo-

when we are down there again” (pharris927). “The

reach at the well-known Edisto “fave” McConkey’s

fried flounder and homemade chips were fantastic,”

Jungle Shack. Walk into the Jungle Shack and you

gowake wrote, and CottonLily penned, “McCon-

might feel a little overwhelmed. Don’t worry; this is a

key’s just says Edisto to me.”

completely normal reaction. Please give yourself a few

Located right next to the Piggly Wiggly grocery

minutes to adjust to the laid back atmosphere and the

store with outside and porch dining, the restaurant

hundreds of trinkets, signs and knick-knacks hang-

keeps expanding, adding more beautifully painted ta-

ing from almost every square inch in the dining room

bles (you’ll see these works of art when you get here!)

and you’ll feel at home in no time. McConkey’s is a

with the demand for their great food increasing every

dining experience every beach visitor should share. Its

season. McConkey’s takes just as much time and care

scrumptious food and friendly service has kept diners

packaging your food to-go if you’d rather enjoy their

coming back since 2006.

delicious fare at home or on the beach.

“We have customers come in every day of the week

McConkey’s kid friendly atmosphere and casual set

while they’re on vacation and many locals do the

up is the perfect spot to bring families or your hot date.

same. People really can’t get enough,” proclaimed

Stop by and see all of this Jungle madness for yourself!

atwoodvacations.com | 843.869.2151

Dine In or Take Out Cheeseburgers Chili Dogs Quesadillas Fried Seafood Wings & Fingers Greek Pitas Fried Mushrooms Onion Rings Wraps & Salads Cold Beer & Wine Soft Serve Ice Cream & More!

McConkey’s Jungle Shack

843-869-0097 108 Jungle Road

(Next to Piggly Wiggly)

Hours: 11am - Until www.mcconkeysjungleshack.com

find us on...

The ACE Basin: 350,000 acres of pristine

estuaries and wetlands. Home to the bald eagle, wood stork and osprey.

MA • Scenic Tour of the Ace Basin • Offshore Deep Sea Fishing • Beach Combing Excursions • Sunset Cruises

Edisto Watersports & Tackle

Grovers Bar & Grill

With These Hands Gallery (0.2 miles)

495 Highway 174, Edisto Island, SC

APS

Single Shot Guide Services

If you have been a long time visitor of Edisto, you have no doubt noticed the abundance of wildlife and seafood our island paradise has to offer. You have watched

Guide Services offers equipment rental and unpar-

the fishermen come into the docks with their plen-

hunting and fishing industry. What sets them apart

tiful catch from the rivers, creeks, and ocean, or

is that they can combine any number of different

spotted the locals cast netting in the rivers and tidal

types of hunting and fishing trips to cater to your

creeks for shrimp and bait. Perhaps hiking through

needs. They offer freshwater and saltwater fishing

Botany Bay you came across one of the numerous

as well as a wide variety of wildlife hunting. In

flocks of wild turkey that roam the island or noticed

addition to offering day hunting and fishing trips,

that the park is closed on certain days for hunting.

they also offer ecotours, sunset cruises, and many

If you have ever wanted to experience the Low-

unique packages. Begin your weekend package

country life of fishing and hunting all day followed

with inshore saltwater fishing for redfish followed

by a scrumptious meal from your fresh catch, Single

up with a classic Lowcountry cookout. Wake up

Shot Guide Services is just what you are looking

the next morning for an unforgettable duck hunt

for, a local family owned and operated business,

and end the day with another great meal and eve-

ready to plan your hunting and fishing adventures.

ning catfish trip! Packages can be customized to

Owners Laura and Charles Yeomans take the

32

alleled instruction.

Single Shot Guide Services offers over 30 years of experience in the South Carolina Lowcountry

suit your individual interests and preferences.

hassle out of planning and executing your outdoor

Single Shot Guide Services offers the widest va-

adventure in order to maximize the enjoyment

riety of hunting and fishing trips throughout the

for you and your family. Seasoned outdoorsmen

beautiful and diverse South Carolina Lowcountry.

and women will appreciate the highly skilled and

Not to mention, the talented cooks will satisfy any

professional guides and enjoy their trip without

taste buds on your package trips. Single Shot Guide

worrying about the logistics of planning. If you

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are new to angling or pursuing game, Single Shot

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atwoodvacations.com | 843.869.2151

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Inshore Trips

Hunting Trips

Wide variety of seasonal inshore fishing trips including freshwater and saltwater adventures.

Choose from a wide variety of game hunting in the great outdoors of South Carolina.

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Offshore Trips

Experience the thrill of offshore fishing with a highly experienced and successful captain.

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The Plantation Course

34

Edisto Island is a beautiful, family oriented beach about 45 miles south of Charleston.

tion at all times and will be set up in a player friendly

As you drive down the moss draped Hwy. 174 to Edisto,

mode. Our greens are some of the best in the area.

you begin to see what island life is really like. The laid

The course is open to the public with daily greens

back and relaxed Lowcountry atmosphere makes you feel

fees and also offers several membership options and a

as though you could stay forever. Edisto is well hidden

weekly play card for our vacation guests. Nike rental

and protected, rich in wildlife and natural beauty, as well

clubs and pull carts are also available. Come enjoy

as quiet and peaceful. It has no red lights, no hotels or

golf as it was meant to be … the Edisto way.

The Plantation Course is maintained in top condi-

motels, and no commercialization. This, in comparison

Edisto’s island charm and flavor are sure to have you

to many other coastal areas, is why residents call it home,

wishing for more. Escape the hustle and bustle of your

and why visitors come back year after year.

everyday life and visit a place where you can relax and

The island’s sole golf course, The Plantation Course

soothe your mind. While you’re here, don’t forget to try

at Edisto, is nestled in giant live oaks, magnolias and

our local oysters in the fall and winter, blue crabs in the

towering palms, any golf enthusiasts will find a very

summer, or shrimp year round. Located next door to

challenging, and player friendly layout. Measuring ap-

the Pro Shop is Grovers Bar and Grill serving all your

proximately 6175 yards, distance is not as important as

favorite seafood dishes and a number of other specialties.

accuracy and one must not disregard the many water

Open for lunch and dinner daily, there is something on

hazards. Small, lush greens, and tight fairways add to

the menu for everyone. Your visit to Edisto would not be

the challenges of the course. Regardless of your skill

complete without a delicious meal at Grovers.

level, you are certain to enjoy the beauty of the course

The Plantation Course and Grovers are located in-

and the surrounding areas. You will almost always see

side the Wyndham Resort and are open to the public.

pelicans, ospreys, herons and egrets along the course,

Forget all your worries and we’ll see you on the golf

and keep your eyes open for one of our alligators bask-

course, at Grovers or around the island. By the time

ing in the sun along the edges of the lagoons. Bald ea-

your visit is over, you will have many new friends and

gles are occasionally seen gliding over the course.

plans for your next visit.

atwoodvacations.com | 843.869.2151

Unquestionably

the finest golf course on Edisto Island.

A trip to Edisto is not complete without enjoying the challenge & beauty of The Plantation Course.

• Always Excellent Condition

• Complete Pro Shop

• Special 3-Day Pass

• Putting Green & Practice Net Available

• Daily Rate of $59 plus tax (includes cart)

• Villa & Golf Packages Available

• Nike Rental Clubs Available

19 Fairway drive

• Grovers Bar & Grill Located on Premises

| Edisto Island | south carolina | 843.869.1111 www.ThePlanTaTionCourseaTedisTo.Com

Grovers Seafood Bar

“On the golf course” and “in the resort” are not phrases you expect to hear when someone refers to a trendy, upscale spot known for its locally inspired menu. At Grovers

Most notable for this palate was a seared tuna steak

Bar and Grill, with its delectable menu and thriving so-

and grilled portabella mushroom stack with creamy

cial atmosphere, that is precisely what you get.

goat cheese. Another notable seafood entrée featured

cal cuisine keeps the dinner menu changing according to seasonal availability for seafood and fresh produce.

Established four years ago, Chef Nathan Smith was

seared-to-perfection grouper encrusted with crushed

at the helm with a goal to provide exceptional food

barbeque potato chips and a sweet sesame chili glaze.

paired with a memorable experience from the time

Entrées are always served with a choice of two sides,

you enter to the end of your meal.

including stone-ground grits, seasonal vegetables, or

The bar menu features delights such as Kansas City

specialty mashed potatoes.

Wings, a plate of tender pork ribs cooked to perfec-

Chef Nathan talks about his future and past menus

tion in an Asian barbeque sauce. Satisfy your seafood

with pride and gusto, his eyes sparkling the whole

craving with bacon-wrapped scallops or Nathan’s

time with the pride of a job well done. He says, “My

special crab cake as appetizers. That is just for start-

biggest goal for this year is to become as fully reliant

ers! The sandwich menu is so delectable it’s hard to

on local Edisto farmers and fishermen as possible.”

break away to try the ever changing dinner menu.

36

That is just the bar menu! Nathan’s dedication to lo-

Whether you are looking for a family friendly din-

The Flat Iron Steak Ciabatta with warm goat cheese

ing experience for that special evening or just want

spread, tender flat iron steak, mushrooms, and roasted

to step out for an upscale but casual social evening,

red peppers on a fresh ciabatta roll will fill your senses

don’t overlook Edisto’s little secret tucked away on

and stomach. For those who like to keep it traditional,

the greens. You won’t be disappointed. And, if you

the Grover Burger will make all others pale in com-

happen to meet Chef Nathan, don’t be afraid to ask

parison with an 8 oz. patty, fresh Edisto tomatoes, and

him what to eat. He will guide you down an unfor-

your choice of cheeses. Don’t overlook the beer bat-

gettable adventure of taste bud delights with a big

tered, black and tan onion rings. They’re dream worthy.

friendly grin on his face.

atwoodvacations.com | 843.869.2151

Private Club Quality

Open to the Public

Interior and exterior dining Open for lunch and dinner seven days a week Happy Hour daily from 4 - 6 pm Located in the Wyndham Resort | Open to the public 21 Fairway Drive | Edisto Beach | SC | 843.869.0345 | www.groversbarandgrill.com

Dog Days of Summer Sharing the Beach with our Four-Legged Friends

One of the best parts about vacationing on Edisto Beach is that you get to enjoy our beautiful beach with your furry family members as well. It is not uncommon for dogs to be frolicking in the surf with the kids and enjoying a good roll in the sand. Edisto Beach is fortunate to be so pet friendly. Our town even installed trash receptacles for pet waste at the most popular beach access points. Make sure to bring baggies with you for pick up, as the pet waste stations might not have baggies and you wouldn’t want to get caught without one!

Sharing the beautiful beaches with your entire family is just one of the many things that makes vacationing on Edisto Beach so special. Help keep it clean by making sure to pick up after our pets on the beach so everyone can have an amazing vacation.

Photo by Kelly Pettus

ts and hin Pet leash laws: Pets on the beach must be on a leash from May 1 – October 31.

November 1 – April 30 pets on the beach must be under voice command of the owner, on a leash or in a secure area with in town limits.

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Make sure to bring baggies and use the pet waste receptacles where available.

The State Park and State Park Beach require pets to be on a leash year round.

Make sure to bring a water bowl and fresh water if you plan to bring your pet out for a day in the sun!

Dogs tend to accidently ingest salt water while swimming, which can dehydrate them even faster.

Dogs can get over excited on vacation and overdo it, swimming, running and playing. Make sure you know the signs of heat stroke (in both dogs and humans) and rest in the shade when necessary.

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39

Yeargin Construction

Tom Yeargin, known as “Tommy” to family and childhood friends, has successfully managed and operated Yeargin Construction since its inception in 1999. Born and

tions, and custom homes. In addition, they have extensive

raised in the small, upstate mill town of Gaffney, SC,

company with nearly unlimited capabilities. As Tom puts

Tom grew up learning from his father to fix what he

it, “We do quality work for quality living!” Local, skilled

needs with what he has and to do it right the first time.

craftsmen and workers use the best products available

The lessons learned have carried over with Tom as an

and don’t cut corners when it comes to your home. Tom

adult, and after spending 15 years as a Controls En-

has made quality his number one priority and backs that

gineer with Omron Electronics, he decided to branch

up with “100% satisfaction guaranteed.”

out on his own and started Yeargin Construction and Island Preferred Painting.

work, decks, docks, walkways, and even custom built tree houses for fun. They are a very diverse and dynamic

Tom’s deep love of Edisto has carried into his businesses. He gives to the local economy through chari-

When asked what his favorite part of the job is, Tom,

table work and the hiring of local workers and contrac-

who in addition to being a contractor is a licensed

tors. “I believe in giving everyone an opportunity to

plumber and electrician, stated, “The most rewarding

work, learn and earn a living,” he says.

part of my job is seeing the joy and satisfaction that cli-

Outside of work, Tom, who has been a local for 15

ents exhibit upon seeing the restoration, remodeling,

years, is proud to call Edisto ‘home.’ His three children,

or improvement efforts we have implemented on their

Rey, Caroline, and Tommy Jr., are fortunate to be true

beach home. The fact that I get to participate on that

“Edistonians,” a rarity these days. It is truly a blessing to

level is awesome!”

be able to live, work and play on beautiful Edisto Island.

Edisto is a place where many people have had homes

You might run into Tom and his yellow labs, Hoss and

for generations, and playing a role in maintaining, im-

Dixie, out and about, fishing, or just enjoying the beauti-

proving, or building those homes and memories is some-

ful place he calls home. If you have a home on Edisto or

thing of which he is extremely proud.

have been thinking of purchasing one, he is just the per-

Yeargin Construction specializes in remodeling, addi-

40

experience in elevator installation and ADA compliance

son to stop and talk to.

atwoodvacations.com | 843.869.2151

YEARGIN

CONSTRUCTION

Providing Quality Construction Locally for More Than 25 Years

We’re a homeowner’s best friend. Call us for a variety of services including general construction, kitchen and bathroom remodeling, interior and exterior painting, and much more.

We’re the experienced team that will turn your house into your dream home. When it comes to construction and other renovations, no one comes close to Yeargin Construction. We do it all, and no job is too big or too small. Let the experts at Yeargin Construction take care of all your building and construction needs. Call today ...

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843-631-0120 yourhomebuildersc.com

Coastal Homeowners

The Complete Photo Guide to Coastal Maintenance

THIS Photo Guide book was published to show coastal homeowners how to adapt their homes to the everyday challenges presented by a coastal environment. Salt air, salt spray, hu-

your home from the coastal elements. It also addresses

midity, corrosion, wind-driven rain, nor’easters, tropical

niques, and solutions, and making them practical and ac-

storms, and hurricanes are challenges that do not exist in

cessible to coastal homeowners.

concerns about hurricane preparedness and winterizing coastal homes. We place emphasis on protecting your family and your coastal home by illustrating tips, tech-

inland regions. This book does not represent just another

The final chapter, “Increasing Rental Income,” is es-

do-it-yourself book, although many of the everyday chal-

sential reading for those coastal homeowners who have

lenges can be tackled with relative ease. Instead, this book

considered or have already purchased or built a home for

is a unique how-to book, helping homeowners eliminate

investment purposes. Millions of vacationers travel to the

trial and error and do it right the first time, while living in

coastal areas annually and book rental properties. The

a coastal environment.

expectation of today’s guest is very high. The photos and

Best of all, most of the photos in this book were taken on location in coastal areas. As you will see, the beau-

information in this chapter will give you tips and solutions that have been proven to increase rental income.

tiful coastal environment can easily deteriorate build-

The Coastal Products Directory, located in the Appen-

ing materials not suitable for coastal elements. Materi-

dix, is a comprehensive and valuable reference guide with

als and construction practices not designed for those

more than one hundred companies, marketing many of

elements will cost you thousands of dollars in repairs

their products to the coastal homeowner. Their products

and repeat maintenance and will decrease home values.

are resistant to salt air, salt spray, humidity, corrosion,

There are also photos showing solutions using products

wind-driven rain, and hurricanes.

and construction practices that will give you years of worry-free maintenance.

42

To purchase this unique book in your area, go to Atwood

The Complete Photo Guide to Coastal Maintenance

Vacations Sales & Real Estate, Edisto True Value Hard-

is divided into 13 chapters that deal with all aspects of

ware, or The Edisto Bookstore. Visit us online at www.

protecting and maintaining the exterior and interior of

coastalhomebook.com, or call 1-877-437-9657.

atwoodvacations.com | 843.869.2151

Growing up on Edisto is an experience had by a lucky few.

Est. 1989

NEW and USED BOOKS GREETING and NOTE CARDS GIfTS • NAUTICA l Ch ARTS • MApS WIRElESS INTERNET laptops are complimentary and wireless is always accessible outside the shop.

Desktops available at 10¢ a minute during shop hours.

COpY

•

pRINT

•

fAX

Located at 547 Highway 174

(843) 869-1885 • theedistobookstore.com Daily 10 am - 6 pm • Sunday 2 pm - 6 pm Adjacent to the U.S. Post Office • 1.5 miles before beach

EDISTO BOOKSTORE TP.indd 1

Because there’s no place like home …

5/19/11 11:00 AM

At Tender Touch Home Care we offer personal care services designed to allow seniors the ability to maintain their independence and dignity in the comfort of their own home.

Call us today and ask about our Short Term Care for vacationing family members.

843.735.7619

brIdgEtt rInaLdI – ownEr

44

Located on Edisto Island tendertouchhomecarellc.com

Local Tales

Confessions of an Edisto Native

by Kathleen Smith

There are only a few of us. You see us out during the day. We look like you and we talk like you. You will see us sun bathing on the beach and swimming in the ocean. You will wave to us as we are cruising the narrow creeks in our boats. We will pass beside you at the grocery store and stand behind you in line. We buy our seafood the same places you buy yours. We are almost identical and enjoy this beautiful beach just as you do. However, there is one major difference that divides you from me. I’m a local.

I’m here to tell it all and not leave a thing out. My name is Kathleen Smith and I’m an Edisto local. I have been for almost as long as I can remember. It is definitely a trait that runs in the family (having most of your family tree within four miles of each other can either be a blessing or curse.

You never get away with anything).

Being raised on Edisto is rare. Growing up, it’s the kind of life you see on the movies or think about when you picture a small town. I went to elementary school on the first floor of an old beach house, where grades were combined in each classroom because of the small size. I had four classmates in the 5th grade. My P.E classes were held at the Cabana, on the beach. My brother and I would ride our bikes to school every day, sneaking across hole nine on the golf course to get there faster. We would have bake

sales outside of the Piggly Wiggly and spend our earnings on candy at Whaley’s. Typical Saturday nights consisted of sharing an Edisto ghost story in a dark room with one flashlight. These were teeth grinding, hand clenching stories that I looked forward to every week, but guaranteed me nightmares the next night.

Afternoons were spent building forts and drinking from the hose, cruising on our bikes with the privilege of not feeling afraid or unsafe anywhere on the island.

This was the easy part, the years

playground. Why would anyone

of my life where I never wanted to

want anything else? My early years

My mind takes me back to a

leave the beach. All my friends were

on Edisto were the best, a time that

Saturday morning in December

there and the beach was our giant

I look back on now and wish I could

of 2001. The cold beach air stung

dreams

have for one more day.

make all the difference.

You’ve worked hard to achieve your dreams. You deserve a real estate agent who will work just as hard to locate the special home that fits your style, needs and, most of all, budget. Helping people realize their dreams is my love. Call or stop by our Edisto office today and let me help you find your dream home by the sea.

46

Julie Gyselinck

843.714.5694 | jgyselinck@atwoodvacations.com 495 Highway 174 | Post Office Box 10 Edisto Island | South Carolina 29438 atwoodvacations.com

atwoodvacations.com | 843.869.2151

my already blush red cheeks. It was

me, it was harder for her.

happen for me. I was the first pickup

me on stage in front of hundreds

When it came to friends there were

on our bus route at 5:55 am and the

of familiar and unfamiliar faces.

a few down sides: your new friends

last to be dropped off in the evening.

When I was younger, I was asked to

lived an hour away and, of course,

My bus driver, Mrs. Mitchell, and

sing each year in the Edisto Beach

everything had to be planned way in

I got to know each other very well.

Christmas Parade. I have never been

advance. Last minute mall trips or

Don’t get me wrong, going to school

one to have stage fright; growing up

spend the night parties usually didn’t

in Charleston had its perks too.

I was always told that I definitely stole the show wherever I went. This year, I was beyond excited to be able to show off my entertaining skills to all of my neighbors on Edisto. This was my time to bring a grin to everyone’s face. Let me tell you, Edistonians are a great crowd to belt your

Ready for some

voice to. That December morning, loud clapping filled my ice cold ears

hands-on local

as I ended “These are a Few of My Favorite Things,” from The Sound of Music soundtrack. It really was the perfect ending to another one of a kind Christmas Parade.

There comes a time in every ‘Lil’

uA

RA

ntE E D G u

RA

D G uA tE E

An R

At GRE y l fAm i ! n fu

G

n

A of DAy l l fu

D

A

ficult choice. For most, this happens

history?

E

ARAntE E

minutes to an hour away is the dif-

nt

Gu

and moving on to a bigger school 30

G uARA

D

on Edisto isn’t an option anymore

ED

E

Local’s life when attending school

tE

after 6th grade. This is when life gets hard. Not only for the new kid in school who must start over in an almost foreign place with a different zip code, but for the parents as well; they are the ones doing most of the work adjusting to a new routine. My mother is a saint. From 6th grade ‘til I was 16, she was my bus driver, car-pooler and #1 supporter.

My mom was a face I knew I would see at every vocal recital and theater production. It wasn’t just hard for

EXPLORE edisto | 2012

Come and enjoy

a day like no other.

Feel the satisfaction of finding your own part of the past, ranging from Prehistoric Shark Teeth to all types of Prehistoric remains.

ACE Basin

Adventures

Capt. Daryl 704.763.5826 Capt. Joey 843.709.1017

47

we’re here for you

from start to finish.

From purchasing your dream home, marketing your vacation rental, or getting ready to upgrade, Atwood Vacations offers a myriad of Property Management Services to make your rental ownership more rewarding, including: winterization, hurricane preparation, inventory management, volume discounts on supplies, and more.

Call us today to experience how carefree rental property ownership can be.

Long commutes to school every day meant I was the first of my friends to get a cell phone. Spending the night with friends happened more often and not having my dates meet my step-dad or brother because of the long drive to Edisto always made me sigh with relief.

After surviving high school’s grueling routine, I jumped at the first chance to leave for college and move to a big city — a city where I would find a shopping mall three miles from my dorm — and a metropolitan lifestyle I had been deprived of

843.869.2151 866.713.5214 toll free www.atwoodvacations.com

my whole life. It really was country come to city.

Still, to this day, the best sleep I

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Seafood doesn’t get fresher or more local than this. get is when I come home to Edisto.

Food tastes better on the beach. All of the best meals I eat happen once I cross the bridge. I constantly have cravings for my mom’s homemade beef stew and burned grilled cheese.

Coming to Edisto means leaving my keys in the ignition, not locking my doors and sleeping with my windows open. It means feeling safe no matter where I am. I make the three and-a-half hour trip home even if it’s just for the day. It’s safe to say, I miss Edisto. I miss my home.

Since graduating college I have made a life in Charlotte, North Carolina. Charlotte is a wonderful city with so much to do. I take much pride in spending my childhood on Edisto and being an “original local.” Through the highs and lows, growing up on the beach was an exceptional experience.

Some words of advice — whether you’re here for your first time or you come back every year, Edisto is a place that you’ll never forget. I’m confident when I say, “See you soon.”

Edisto Beach’s Only Fresh Fish Mar ket Fresh Fish, Local Clams, and Blue Crabs

Owned and operated ly for by the Fontaine fami Open Daily 9 am - 6 pm

3 generations.

• SC 3729 Docksite Road • Edisto Beach

we’ll be right here

eagerly awaiting your return.

Our advanced booking takes the worry away and allows you to reserve your favorite house year after year so you always get the week you want.

Call Atwood today and reserve your memories!

843.869.2151 866.713.5214 toll free atwoodvacations.com EXPLORE edisto | 2012

49

A Lowcountry Golfing Treasure Sits Minutes from Edisto Island

The Lowcountry has a long golfing history and a list of impressive golf courses. While most are unique in their own right, there is one area course that offers amazing Intracoastal views and a Resort-like experience, all without the Resort price tag. The Links at Stono Ferry is a quick trip from Edisto and features a 6,814-yard, par 72 Ron Garl jewel that is rated 4-Stars

by Golf Digest Places to Play Guide. This challenging test is sure to appeal to golfers of all skill levels.

The Links at Stono Ferry masterfully combines the historic cultural traditions of the Lowcountry with superior quality golf along the pristine Intracoastal waters and salt marshes of South Carolina. Throughout your round you are surrounded by natural beauty and poignant reminders of Stono Ferry’s rich and storied past as the site of a Revolutionary War battle in 1779. Hole 14 is one of Links Magazine’s Lowcountry Dream 18 and the 18th hole features a breathtaking and ever-challenging island green.

50

While at the Links at Stono Ferry, be sure to enjoy the full-service club house, featuring the Stono Grill, open 8:30am-4:30pm daily, with both indoor and screened-in patio dining. Stono Ferry is home to the Ping Regional Clubfitter-of-the-Year and PGA Golf Professional Greg Wood who provides game improvement lessons at the club’s indoor/outdoor Golf Learning Center.

Complete your Edisto beach vacation with a round at Stono Ferry. Simply take the short drive up the beautiful Intracoastal Waterway, just 16 miles from the center of Edisto Island, and challenge the awardwinning Links at Stono Ferry. Your trip to the area will not be complete without a day on 18 of Charleston’s most memorable golf holes.

The Links at Stono Ferry is located at 4812 Stono Links Drive in Hollywood, SC. For tee times, call (843) 763-1817, or visit www.StonoFerryGolf.com. atwoodvacations.com | 843.869.2151

breathtaking

and so much more

Only 35 minutes from Edisto Island, The Links at Stono Ferry offers a unique Ron Garl design that flows along the banks of the Intracoastal Waterway. This round of golf will take you across a historic Revolutionary War battlefield and thrill you with 18 of the area’s most exciting golf holes, including our island green 18th. The sheer beauty and challenge of Stono Ferry is unrivaled and worth the short trip from Edisto Island.

Tee Times: (843) 763-1817 • www.StonoFerryGolf.com

Edisto Beach Pavilion

Edisto’s Only Beachfront Restaurant and Bar

The Pavilion on Edisto Beach reigns as the only beachfront restaurant and bar. Settle outside on the pier for a sunset drink at Coot’s or enjoy a wonderful family dinner with ocean views from the dining room. Coot’s main-

most sporting events on their multiple televisions.

They also offer some of the best beer and drink specials on the beach.

The restaurant’s nightly menu has something for everyone.

The She Crab Soup is always a

tains a fun, family friendly at-

favorite and you can’t go wrong

mosphere during the day with

with a cheeseburger in paradise

games for the kids, a foosball

at this beachfront establishment.

and pool table to enjoy while

You can find that perfect

you wait for your lunch to

souvenir at the gift shop, which

arrive. Drop in after beach-

is stocked with t-shirts, beach

combing to have one of their

toys,

world famous Bloody Mary’s.

bathing suits, flip flops, and

Your first sip is sure to instill

much more.

a life long craving, so indulge with caution!

52

More than just a beach bar, Coot’s features

jewelry,

home

décor,

Stroll down the beach and stop in for a visit!

atwoodvacations.com | 843.869.2151

Edisto BEach

Pavilion

N Boo ow he chie re: &C rew !

102 Palmetto blvd • edisto beach • sc • 843-869-4474

Restaurant Gift Shop Coot’s Pavilion pavilion

Lounge & SportS Bar

Best Seafood on the Island Open for Lunch & Dinner All your beach needs & Souvenirs T-Shirts starting at $11.99 Edisto’s only beachfront bar with outdoor seating. Pool & Ping Pong

Mention this ad in Explore Edisto at the Restaurant, Bar or Gift Shop for

10% off!

Waterfront Restaurant & Shore Thing Gift Shop

54

Waterfront Restaurant & Shore Thing Gift Shop are locally owned and operated by Susan and Scot Flowers. The Flowers’ name upholds four generations in the Edisto seafood industry. Scot grew up on the

vided by local King’s Farm, owned by Susan’s parents.

back of his dad’s shrimp boat, who was a shrimper for

you are sure to find what your heart desires. Shore

44 years. From the shrimp boats to his mother Doris

Thing offers women’s apparel, unique t-shirts, beach

Flowers’ kitchen, Scot developed a different approach

accessories, children’s clothing, toys, jewelry, and so

to seafood.

much more.

After you fill your appetites at the Waterfront, head over to Shore Thing Gift Shop and Boutique for a little piece of Edisto to take home with you. Providing carefully selected merchandise in a fun relaxed atmosphere,

Scot opened the Waterfront Restaurant in 2001 to

Susan and Scot pride themselves on the friendly

share the wonderful recipes his mother inspired. The

atmosphere they have established in their businesses.

Waterfront offers a friendly, family atmosphere and

Drop by and you’ll probably see Susan, Scot or their

delicious, fresh seafood. Local shrimp and oysters

daughter Addyson, at the restaurant, gift shop or

harvested by Scot’s family grace the menu each night.

even out at King’s Market. Needless to say, it’s all in

Seasonal vegetables and homemade desserts are pro-

the family!

atwoodvacations.com | 843.869.2151

call For

summer breakFast hours

drop the Fork aNd step away From the ButteR sauce.

Fresh seaFood

all you caN eat luNch buFFet

Nightly Fish specials

Family atmosphere

specialty saNdwiches

large groups welcome

salads & pasta

opeN late duriNg summer

kids meNu

Full-service bar

(aNd yes, steak)

take-out

136 Jungle Road • edisto Beach • sc • 843.869.1400 moNday-saturday: luNch 11-3; diNNer 5-uNtil sunday BRunch 10-3 • call foR summeR BReakfast houRs

Edisto’s Gift Shop Headquarters

• Women’s Apparel • Jewelry • Children’s Clothing & Toys • Home Decor • Gifts • Garden • Outdoor • Christmas Corner • Stationery • Personalized Items • Beach Items & more!

Tuesday - Saturday 10 am - 5 pm Extended hours during Summer

(843) 869-1550 134 Jungle Road

Next to The Waterfront Restaurant EXPLORE edisto | 2012

55

Plenty of Shrimp, no one to catch them

Talk of shrimping conjures romantic thoughts. The West has its cowboys, saddled and gun slinging, but the South has her shrimpers, men in raggedy clothes and white rubber boots. They man long boats equipped with steel outriggers and strong nets, and pull in line on rolling ocean. For the committed, nets in at sunrise and up at sunset. Speckled with sea salt and bleached by the sun, they haul in nets, sort catch, ice down, and repeat. Each day, weather prevailing, they catch and harvest and bring to market a food that helps establish the culture of the South. But, for an occupation so glorified, the South Carolina shrimper is disappearing. Retired shrimper Boochie Fontaine tells me that there were once, “25 boats in the creek, and most of them local.” Now there is only one boat left. What happened?

The Fontaine family has been a fixture on Edisto for many years.

After moving to Edisto in the 1950s, they opened the first shrimp house and owned Edisto’s first shrimp boats. Shrimping came naturally to Boochie. At the age of seven he began shrimping with his father every summer and eventually came to own the iconic Miss Edisto.

Boochie contends that the disappearance of Edisto’s shrimpers is not to blame on a lack of shrimp crop. He instead explains that shrimping is like farming: “You have good years and bad years …

And, like everything else, you have to work it.” The same thing that ailed the local farmer vanquished the Edisto shrimper: high fuel prices and the high value of land. “There is no place to tie your boat up any-

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more,” explains Boochie. “The high property values make it more profitable to build a condo or put up a house than have a place for a shrimp boat.” On Big Bay Creek, what could be considered the “port” of Edisto, there is one remaining seafood dock. Edisto Seafood, owned

by Ashley and Berry Fontaine, has one or two slips that are available to tie up a large vessel like a shrimp boat. The rest of the creek is lined with homes and residential docks.

In the eyes of a businessman, the pursuit of shrimp is not the pursuit of profit. However, that may not be the case for much longer.

While cheap imported shrimp do play an important role in the decline of the American shrimping industry, the demand for local shrimp, at least on Edisto, is still

overwhelmingly prevalent. In fact, the last shrimp boat on Edisto, the Sarah Jane, struggles to keep Edisto Seafood stocked with local shrimp.

A constant question asked by patrons at local restaurants is: “Are your shrimp local?” Tourists and locals alike indulge in the easy harvest of shrimp made possible by a shrimp baiting season. The demand is there. The door to an eager market is open; we need shrimpers and boats to step in.

However, in the mean time, as the driver of that demand, you can continue to support Edisto seafood shops and request local shrimp. The way to elect effective change is by voting with your wallet. Buy local, because as Boochie’s father always used to say, “The shrimp will always be there.” atwoodvacations.com | 843.869.2151

Stalking the Shore continued from page 27

Don’t leave your vacation memories to chance.

out of the pools on the ebb.” Elliott further describes the approach of his father, a master angler: “He always arrived at his spot on the beach at the last of the ebb and determined where the sloughs were.”

The lack of pressure to succeed just might be the sweetest reward of the surf fishing experience, which encompasses a broad objective. Gresh clarifies, “If the fishing is slow, it is still a good day at the beach.”

After all, you are at the beach, a vacation in itself, a destination for visitors from across our nation. It is a place where the weather is rarely too hot, but where the salt always heals, the sun soothes, and the soul begins to sing.

L P

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Nancie Smallacombe edistonancie@gmail.com www.edistophotoimpressions.com 6/14/11 11:33 AM

Ford Walpole is a native of John’s Island. He teaches English at James Island Charter High School and the College of Charleston. He can be reached at fordwalpole@gmail.com.

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priceless living at affordable prices.

We know how much you love visiting Edisto,

so why limit your time with us to vacations once or twice a year when you could call Edisto home? In addition to vacation rentals, we also offer affordable homes and home sites for any budget. Choose from secluded island living to vibrant marsh views just steps from the Atlantic Ocean. We’re currently offering multiple floor plans on various lots throughout Edisto Beach and Island starting at $239,000.

And, after you purchase your perfect vacation home, call to speak with us about our Property Management services that will help turn your investment property into a revenue generator while maintaining your stressfree Edisto lifestyle.

To view available homes, visit our website at atwoodvacations.com or call 843.869.2151 to speak with one of our friendly sales associates.

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