City Directories and History: Until a few years ago, this important structure remained one of the island’s most endangered buildings well worthy of historic preservation. Under the leadership of the Daufuskie Island Historical Foundation, it was restored in ca. 2013. It is commonly known as the Oyster House.
“From the turn of the 20th century until pollution in the Savannah River ruined the oyster beds in the 1950’s, the primary economy of the island was the harvesting and shucking of oysters. The oyster workers established the Oyster Union Society, a benevolent and burial society that held meetings and social events in this 1893 building. The latter events were often enhanced with local moonshine or homemade wine. An initiation ceremony was necessary for membership in the Society. The Society was dissolved after the oyster beds were closed. The building was restored by the DIHF in 2012.” (Information courtesy of the Daufuskie Island Historical Foundation)
See additional enlargeable maps of the island under the More Information links. Visit the Daufuskie Island Historical Foundation’s (DIHF) websites to see how you might engage in helping preserve the local Daufuskie Island’s culture and architecture.
The 1981 historic survey map of Daufuskie Island does not correspond to the numbering system on the historic survey cards – pictures. R&R has noted on each page the correct corresponding number. See enlargeable maps of Daufuskie Island’s historic survey at: Daufuskie Historic Survey Maps.
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Explore history, houses, and stories across S.C. Your membership provides you with updates on regional topics, information on historic research, preservation, and monthly feature articles. But remember R&R wants to hear from you and assist in preserving your own family genealogy and memorabilia.
Visit the Southern Queries – Forum to receive assistance in answering questions, discuss genealogy, and enjoy exploring preservation topics with other members. Also listed are several history and genealogical researchers for hire.
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ANOTHER DAUFUSKIE LINK – MARY FIELDS SCHOOL
MT CARMEL BAPTIST CHURCH – MUSEUM
Image courtesy of the Palmetto Trust for Historic Preservation – 2009
Please enjoy this structure and all those listed in Roots and Recall. But remember each is private property. So view them from a distance or from a public area such as the sidewalk or public road.
Do you have information to share and preserve? Family, school, church, or other older photos and stories are welcome. Send them digitally through the “Share Your Story” link, so they too might be posted on Roots and Recall.
Thanks!
