The Tybee Island Black History Trail

The Tybee Island Black History Trail is a project of Tybee MLK Human Rights Organization, Georgia Southern University and Tybee Island Historical Society.

The Tybee Black History Trail, first unveiled in the spring of 2023, consists of 13 stops. Each highlights a significant aspect of local Black history. The trail tells the powerful story of enslaved Africans who arrived at the Lazaretto Creek Quarantine Station. It then traces their descendants’ enduring legacy on Tybee Island. The trail reveals chapters of Tybee Island’s past that often go untold. It explores the impacts of enslavement, segregation, and the Civil Rights Movement. It also explores the efforts to desegregate Tybee Island’s White Beach. Alongside these histories, it celebrates the ongoing work of groups like the Tybee MLK Human Rights Organization. Their volunteers dedicate themselves to preserving and sharing these important stories with today’s generation.

This trail was created as part of Tybee Island’s RESOLUTION 2020-10, Promoting Justice and Equality

Its mission is focused on cultivating a more inclusive understanding of Tybee’s history. Beyond highlighting the harrowing effects of Jim Crow laws on Black residents, the Tybee Island Black History Trail also shines a light on the resilience and accomplishments of the Black community. From skilled fishermen with deep Gullah Geechee roots, to successful entrepreneurs, to the women who earned their livelihood through domestic and seasonal work, the trail celebrates the rich culture and contributions of Black Tybee residents throughout history.

The Tybee Island Black History Trail highlights significant locations such as:

• Fish Camp (Now A.J.’s Grill)

Once located at 1315 Chatham Avenue, this spot was home to a Black, fish camp where multiple families lived and worked, contributing to the Island’s fishing industry. It has since transformed into A.J.’s Grill.

• Adams Inn and Nightclub

Previously situated on Inlet Avenue, Jayne and James Adams ran this vibrant inn and nightclub in the 1950s and 1960s. James Adams also operated an oyster house at 1601 Chatham Avenue.

• Lazaretto Quarantine Station

A key stop on the trail, this station served as an enslaved Africans’ quarantine site.

• Litway Baptist Church

Located on Alger Avenue, this church was a vital place of worship for Tybee Island’s Black community.

• Johnny’s Place

Also on Alger Avenue, this was a popular nightclub, providing a space for relaxation and entertainment.

• Viola Whatley’s Residence

Alger Avenue was home to Viola Whatley, a Gullah Geechee woman who supported herself through seasonal and domestic work. Her residence was one of the last living links to Tybee’s Gullah Geechee heritage.

Travelers walking the trail will uncover stories of resilience, culture, and contributions that are often overshadowed in conventional narratives. The Tybee Island Black History Trail offers a glimpse into the enduring impact of the Black community. This impact has morphed on the Island over generations.

The post The Tybee Island Black History Trail appeared first on Savannah, GA | Savannah.com.