Author: Matthew Humphrey

Unearthing Jekyll’s Indigenous Past

Posted on | by Matthew Humphrey

Every discovery deepens our understanding of the island’s remarkable past. Help preserve and share these stories by supporting Jekyll Island’s historic preservation efforts. Donate today to protect Jekyll’s heritage for generations to come.

New Research Reveals Centuries of Native American Life at Horton House

by Andrea Marroquin, JIA Mosaic, Jekyll Island Museum Curator

A recent archaeological research project has shed new light on the deep Indigenous history of Jekyll Island, revealing that Native American groups occupied and revisited the Horton House site beginning about 3,000 years ago

The project focused on documenting the Native American component of the Horton House Historic Site. Researchers reviewed 26 boxes of artifacts and project materials previously recovered from University of West Georgia Field School excavations that took place on Jekyll Island from 1991-1993.

The work was undertaken by Brockington and Associates, Inc. on behalf of the Jekyll Island Authority, with funding assistance from the Georgia Council on American Indian Concerns through the Jekyll Island Foundation, and in partnership with the Antonio J. Waring, Jr. Archaeology Lab and the Office of the State Archaeologist.

A Site Occupied for Millennia

Pottery analysis indicates the site experienced repeated occupations for more than 2,500 years, spanning approximately 1,000 BC to 1600 A.D. The most intensive use occurred between the Late Woodland and Early Mississippian periods, roughly 1000–1300 AD.

Archaeologists believe the site functioned as a midden area that was repeatedly used for resource gathering, food processing, temporary camps, and domestic activities. The large quantity of artifacts suggests multiple encampments over time and may even indicate the presence of a village or community.

Nearly 25,000 Artifacts Tell the Story

Researchers analyzed nearly 25,000 artifacts, including more than 11,500 prehistoric artifacts and approximately 11,000 faunal remains.

These faunal or animal remains, such as bones, teeth, horn, shell, or scales, show that white-tailed deer served as the primary source of meat for the site’s occupants. Diets were supplemented by fish, turtles, alligators, birds, and raccoons, reflecting the ecologically rich resources of this diverse coastal environment.

Evidence of daily life also emerged through the artifact assemblage. A limited number of stone tools suggests that tool manufacturing was not a major activity at the site, though several artifacts provide evidence of food processing activities such as cutting and scraping.

Deer bones displayed signs of butchering and meal preparation, while the tip of a broken bone awl points to sewing or hide-working activities. Researchers also identified a modified whelk shell that was likely used as a hammering tool.

Faunal evidence suggests that people were most likely present during warmer months, although occupation could have occurred at any time of year.

Evidence of a Communal Structure

One of the project’s most significant findings was evidence of a large rectangular wattle-and-daub structure measuring approximately 12 meters by 10 meters.

The building featured a wall trench containing upright posts, likely interwoven with branches and covered with daub. Large interior posts may have supported a raised, sloping roof made from palmetto and grasses, with a ventilation opening above a central hearth. Additional interior posts may have supported benches, platforms, or partitions.

Because the structure was considerably larger than a typical household dwelling and could have accommodated as many as 20 people, archaeologists interpret it as a communal building—possibly a council house. Such a space may have hosted community meetings, feasts, ceremonies, celebrations, and exchanges among neighboring groups.

The idea that Jekyll Island once served as a gathering place for important social and ceremonial events creates a compelling connection between the island’s prehistoric past and its modern role as a destination where people continue to come together for meetings, celebrations, and shared experiences.

Looking Ahead

Researchers conclude that the Horton House site retains potential for future archaeological investigation. Additional work could help refine the site’s chronology, provide greater understanding of the council house’s construction and use, and identify nearby structures or activity areas. Future studies could also provide valuable insights into ancient diets, medicinal practices, agricultural activities, ritual behavior, and environmental conditions.

The report further highlights potential opportunities for future interpretation and public outreach efforts. Moving forward, the Jekyll Island Authority’s Historic Resources Department will consider the best ways to build upon and share this new information. Future efforts will support the goal to contribute to the knowledge of Native American life on Jekyll Island and in Coastal Georgia.

Turtle Crawl Sets Personal Record for Race Fundraising

Posted on | by Matthew Humphrey

By Alexa Hawkins, Director of Marketing & Communications

On April 25, 2026, Jekyll Island hosted its highly anticipated annual Turtle Crawl, bringing together a passionate community of runners, walkers, and wildlife advocates. This beloved tradition serves as a critical community event, the second largest foot race in Glynn County, combining physical fitness with a profound mission to amplify sea turtle conservation on the Georgia coast. Participants gathered for the annual 5K, 10K, and 1-Mile Fun Run under the historic live oaks of Jekyll Island and crossed the finish line directly outside of the Georgia Sea Turtle Center where their fundraising contributions are witnessed first-hand.

The 2026 event marked an extraordinary milestone, officially becoming the most successful Turtle Crawl fundraiser in its 19-year history. More than 1,500 race participants laced up their running shoes to support the cause. Through registrations, sponsorships, and direct donations, the event raised more than $60,000 for the Georgia Sea Turtle Center on behalf of the Jekyll Island Foundation.

As Georgia’s only sea turtle rehabilitation hospital, funds generated from the race directly support life-saving rehabilitation, research, and education for sick and injured sea turtles. These contributions provide essential resources for veterinary care, specialized medical equipment, and daily dietary needs of the patients. The enduring legacy of this event is clear, as more than 3,000 sea turtle patients have successfully undergone care at the center since the Turtle Crawl first began nearly two decades ago.

Looking ahead, excitement is already building for next year’s milestone celebration and registration is now live for the 2027 Turtle Crawl, taking place May 1, 2027. The popular island race will once again serve as the official kick-off event for Georgia’s sea turtle season, in addition to celebrating what will be the 20th anniversary of the Georgia Sea Turtle Center.

Race participants can secure the early bird rate (and guarantee their t-shirt!) by registering online for the 2027 Turtle Crawl. For those who wish to extend their impact beyond race day and support the Center’s mission year-round, donations can be made directly to the Jekyll Island Foundation.

Preserving Jekyll Island’s History

Posted on | by Matthew Humphrey

Behind the scenes, the Historic Resources team is preserving Jekyll Island’s story one record at a time. Using a high-quality archival scanner, made possible through the generosity of donors, the archivist is carefully digitizing photographs, documents, and materials that capture the island’s evolving history. This meticulous work protects fragile originals while making these records more accessible for research, interpretation, and education. Each image scanned helps bridge past and present, ensuring that Jekyll Island’s story is preserved with accuracy and care. Through this ongoing effort, the team is helping ensure future generations can understand and appreciate how the island has grown and changed over time.


Many of these materials exist only in a single physical format and are vulnerable to deterioration from age, handling, and environmental conditions. By creating high-quality digital records, the Historic Resources team is safeguarding irreplaceable pieces of Jekyll Island’s heritage while expanding opportunities for scholars, educators, students, and visitors to engage with the island’s rich history. This work not only preserves the past but also helps bring historic stories to life for new audiences.


Preserving history requires ongoing investment in specialized equipment, archival supplies, conservation efforts, and professional expertise. Donor support helps ensure that Jekyll Island’s historic collections remain protected, accessible, and available for future generations. To help sustain this important work, supporters are encouraged to consider making a gift to support Historic Preservation today.

Life and Liberty on Jekyll Island

Posted on | by Matthew Humphrey

Join us on Saturday, June 27, as Jekyll Island kicks off America’s 250th anniversary celebration at the historic Horton House with Life and Liberty.

Step back in time and experience the colonial era firsthand. Meet costumed interpreters and enjoy interactive activities like quill making, learning the art of tabby construction, sampling colonial tea, and more.

Be sure to catch lively Fife and Drum Corps demonstrations every half hour, bringing the sounds of the American Revolution to life.

Hootenanny’s BBQ will be on site serving up flavorful fare inspired by the era.

Set along the beautiful marsh edge, this unforgettable event is the perfect way to celebrate our nation’s beginnings and build excitement for Independence Day.

Saturday, June 27
10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Coastal Bird Conservation Takes Flight on Jekyll Island

Posted on | by Matthew Humphrey

By Libby Sutton, Conservation Technician

Expanding Shorebird Monitoring Efforts

Jekyll Island’s shorebird conservation efforts continue to grow as staff expand monitoring and habitat research across the island. Shorebird surveys are conducted to monitor populations and better understand migration routes and timing, patterns of habitat use, and overall population trends. This monitoring also supports the recovery of imperiled species by identifying critical stopover and foraging habitats and informing conservation and management actions that reduce threats and improve long-term survival.

To support this work, the Conservation Department participates in the International Shorebird Survey (ISS), a long-term, volunteer-based monitoring program coordinated through Manomet. Jekyll Island contributes monthly counts following ISS protocols, adding to a broader dataset that documents seasonal shorebird use and population change over time. This year, shorebird surveys have increased from only a few surveys annually to 1–2 surveys each month to better document shorebird aggregations and habitat use across the island in different seasons.

Protecting Wilson’s Plovers

Since 2015, the Conservation Department has worked to better understand and protect Wilson’s Plovers (WIPL), a shorebird listed as threatened in Georgia. Regular nest monitoring, tracking, and habitat protection efforts have helped document the importance of Jekyll Island’s beaches and dunes as critical nesting habitat for WIPL.

Throughout the nesting season, weekly nest checks allow staff to monitor nesting activity, success, and potential threats. While the season is still in its early stages, conservation staff have already confirmed five nests, with three still actively incubating.

New Focus on Wading Bird Nesting

In addition to shorebird monitoring, bird conservation work on Jekyll Island is expanding into wading bird nesting. The Conservation Department is now surveying nesting colonies to identify the ponds, vegetation communities, and habitat features most frequently used by nesting wading birds.

Across five monitoring sites, staff have already confirmed 15 active wading bird nests this season. These efforts will help guide future habitat management and restoration projects, with the long-term goal of improving nesting opportunities for species such as the Wood Stork. Together, these initiatives continue to strengthen Jekyll Island’s role as an important refuge for coastal bird conservation.

Powered by Support

These monitoring efforts are made possible through the Jekyll Island Foundation, which has helped provide critical field equipment used during these surveys, including a new spotting scope.

Help Protect Jekyll Island’s Coastal Birds

The success of these conservation efforts depends on continued community support. Your gift helps fund essential monitoring, habitat protection, and research that directly impacts the survival of threatened coastal bird species.

Make a difference today—support Jekyll Island’s conservation work by clicking HERE.

Earl Grey: A Spunky Little Sea Turtle with a Surprising Secret

Posted on | by Matthew Humphrey

By Jaynie L. Gaskin

Hospital staff at the Georgia Sea Turtle Center are very experienced in treating the seven species of sea turtles that occur in our coastal waters. But recently, one small patient caused quite a stir upon arrival at the hospital.

An Unexpected Arrival

When NOAA biologists called to confirm that eight critically endangered Kemp’s Ridley sea turtles would be transferred to the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, they had one additional request: could the Center also accept another cold‑stunned turtle needing long‑term care? This extra patient was a juvenile loggerhead from the New England Aquarium, measuring just 32 cm (13 inches)—a true “pocket logger,” as sea turtle folks like to say.

The Center was able to accommodate the additional turtle, and the rehabilitation team prepared a ninth tank, carefully lowering the water temperature to match the turtle’s body temperature. Cold‑stunned sea turtles must be rewarmed gradually to prevent shock, and because this turtle was a different species, a separate tank was required.

Each turtle was placed in an individual banana box lined with beach towels and transported more than 1,000 miles from Boston, Massachusetts, to Jekyll Island. Their journey was made possible thanks to a private company that generously volunteered space on their jet. Upon arrival at the St. Simons Airport, GSTC staff carefully unloaded each box, checking the turtles and recording their temperatures before transport to the Center.

A Case of Mistaken Identity

After loading nine boxes into the GSTC turtle van, I noticed something amiss.

“Where is the loggerhead?” I asked. “These are all Kemp’s Ridleys.”

The pilots confirmed that all turtles had been unloaded, so the team began opening boxes again. Peering inside one, I spotted the missing turtle. “Oh—here they are,” I said softly. “This little loggerhead looks so much like the others, I must have counted them as just another Kemp’s.”

Once all patients were accounted for, we departed for the Turtle Center. “It’s been a long time since I misidentified a sea turtle,” I admitted to hospital manager Rachel Overmeyer. “That little guy really fooled me with their round shell and small head.”

Meet Earl Grey

After arriving at the Center, each turtle received a brief exam before being placed in water to rest overnight. Staff couldn’t help noticing that the young loggerhead displayed a curious mix of physical traits usually associated with two different species. The team quickly gave the turtle a fitting nickname: Earl Grey, after the blended black tea.

Over the next several days, veterinary staff performed full physical exams, bloodwork, and X‑rays to assess the health of all nine patients. Thanks to the Center’s new PA system, visitors in the Learning Center were able to listen as the hospital team evaluated Earl Grey in real time.

A Curious Combination

As the veterinarian examined Earl Grey, he pointed out several unusual features. A sharp hooked tip at the front of the beak is typically found on Kemp’s Ridley turtles, not loggerheads. The shell raised even more questions. Loggerheads usually have heart‑shaped carapaces, while Kemp’s Ridleys have round shells. Earl Grey’s carapace appeared unusually round, with ridges more characteristic of a Kemp’s.

With staff curiosity officially piqued, a small blood sample was sent to the University of Georgia for genetic testing.

Recovery, Discovery, and Release

Just as rehabilitation was nearing completion, the genetic test results arrived. Earl Grey was confirmed to be a first‑generation hybrid—with a loggerhead father and a Kemp’s Ridley mother—the first hybrid sea turtle ever treated at the Georgia Sea Turtle Center.

Spunky, curious, and always hungry, Earl Grey is now on track for release this summer, marking both a successful recovery and an exciting scientific discovery for the Center.

Support Sea Turtle Rehabilitation and Conservation

The Georgia Sea Turtle Center’s rehabilitation, research, and education efforts are made possible through the generous support of donors through the Jekyll Island Foundation. Contributions help provide lifesaving medical care for injured and ill sea turtles like Earl Grey and support conservation initiatives that protect sea turtles and their habitats for future generations.

Click HERE to support the Georgia Sea Turtle Center and make a donation today.

Digging up the Past

Posted on | by Matthew Humphrey

By Patrick Carmody, Museum Educator

Did you know that Jekyll Island has an active archaeological research program that informs museum interpretation? Jekyll Island’s Curator, Andrea Marroquin, ensures that historical sites are documented and preserved, including the prehistoric remnants of the Native American cultures that once called Jekyll Island home. Andrea’s most recent archaeological project has been spearheading an analysis of a decades-old project.

The current initiative revisits a series of excavations from the 1990s, when another archaeologist was leading a field school around the Horton House on Jekyll Island. A field school is a mentored experience in which students participate in hands-on work as part of an off-campus class. In this instance, the mentor was Professor Crook, and the students’ coursework focused on learning best practices in archaeology through participation in archaeological digs on Jekyll Island. Dr. Ray Crook served as director of the University of West Georgia’s Waring Archaeological Laboratory from 1991 until 2007. In the early 1990s, Dr. Crook led a series of field schools on Jekyll Island with the intent to conduct excavations, teach students how to safely carry out archaeological digs, and expand knowledge of both the prehistory and history of the island.

Through those field schools, several artifacts were carefully unearthed, documented, and shipped to Carrollton, Georgia, for future analysis at the University of West Georgia. The artifacts recovered by the teams, along with site maps, research notes, and additional records, have since remained at the university. With financial support from the Jekyll Island Foundation, and in partnership with the University of West Georgia, the Jekyll Island Authority has recently contracted Brockington and Associates to analyze these discoveries. Given the variety of artifacts uncovered during the excavations, the findings are expected to reveal valuable insights into the island’s ancient history.

These pieces of the past may contribute to further interpretation at the Jekyll Island Museum, inspire additional educational programming, or lead to new wayside panels highlighting the island’s story on the north end. Evidence from these digs may offer deeper understanding of the cultures that once lived on the island, including details about diet, lost structures, and evidence of trade.

Financial support from the Jekyll Island Foundation has been critical in processing these findings. To support the Jekyll Island Authority’s Historic Resources team and help preserve this unique history for future generations, click HERE.

Gould Casino – A Façade Worth Preserving

Posted on | by Matthew Humphrey

After years of exposure to coastal winds, salt air, and sun, the iconic façade of the Gould Casino has been thoughtfully restored, returning one of Jekyll Island’s most recognizable landmarks to its historic elegance. While the Gould Casino is not open to visitors, the newly renovated façade now provides a beautiful and meaningful display for guests as Historic Landmark tours pass slowly by, sharing stories of Jekyll Island’s Gilded Age and the people who shaped it.

The $233,000 restoration project was made possible through strong preservation partnerships dedicated to protecting the island’s heritage. Jekyll Island Foundation contributed $133,000 toward the façade renovation, joined by $100,000 from the Friends of Historic Jekyll Island. Together, these investments ensured the exterior was preserved with the craftsmanship and care required of a nationally significant historic landmark.

As the restoration work was completed, architectural details once softened by time reemerged, allowing the Gould Casino to once again reflect the refined character of Jekyll Island’s early resort era. Today, the refreshed façade stands as a striking visual reminder of the island’s past—quietly anchoring the historic district as tour trams glide by and guides bring the Gilded Age to life.

Though the façade is what visitors see today, the Gould Casino’s story runs much deeper. From its role during Jekyll Island’s early resort years to its lasting presence within the historic district, the building represents the layered history that defines the island. Readers interested in learning more are invited to explore a companion article that dives deeper into the people, events, and moments connected to this remarkable structure.

Preservation projects like this are only possible through continued community support. Every contribution helps protect the places that tell Jekyll Island’s story—ensuring they remain part of the visitor experience for generations to come. If the restored Gould Casino inspires you, please consider supporting ongoing preservation efforts and helping safeguard Jekyll Island’s historic legacy.

From Fairways to Flyways: A New Chapter for Oleander Golf Course

Posted on | by Matthew Humphrey

by Joseph Colbert, Wildlife Biologist and Yank Moore, Director of Conservation

What happens when timing meets conservation creativity? Something truly special.

FROM FAIRWAYS TO HABITAT

After the successful renovation and expansion of the Great Dunes Golf Course, blending favorable elements of the old Oleander course with a bold new design, an exciting transformation is unfolding just beyond the greens. Portions of the former Oleander fairways have been turned over to the Conservation Department and are being reborn as thriving wildlife habitat. The result is one of the most unique and ambitious conservation projects on Jekyll Island to date.

RESTORING COASTAL GRASSLANDS & WILDLIFE CORRIDORS

Where golfers once lined up their shots, conservation staff are now planting native grasses that historically blanketed the coast and much of the southeastern United States. These restored coastal grasslands are rare, beautiful, and incredibly valuable to wildlife. When arranged carefully, they also create a natural wildlife corridor, a safe passage that allows animals to move between natural areas without interruption or interaction with the millions of visitors Jekyll Island welcomes each year.

SUPPORTING PRIORITY SPECIES

These grasslands will provide prime prairie habitat for birds such as savannah sparrows, loggerhead shrikes, and southeastern kestrels, all of which are listed in the Jekyll Island Conservation Plan as priority or watch-list species. Nearby forested areas are also being enhanced through controlled burning and careful under-brushing, with the goal of encouraging diverse ground-level vegetation needed by species such as Chuck-will’s-widows, box turtles, and pine woods tree frogs.

CREATING FRESHWATER WETLANDS

And no ecosystem is complete without water. To address this need, existing golf course drainage infrastructure has been adapted to create a new freshwater wetland. This wetland will support wildlife such as breeding wood ducks, frogs and their tadpoles, along with crawfish, while also providing a reliable freshwater source for mammals including deer and marsh rabbits.

CONNECTING PEOPLE TO CONSERVATION

Because conservation is even more powerful when experienced firsthand, the corridor will incorporate former golf cart paths to create a connected network of walking trails. These trails invite guests and visitors to step into the landscape, connect with nature, and see conservation in action.

PROJECT TIMELINE & NEXT STEPS

This remarkable project is expected to be completed by early 2027. Final details, including interpretive education features and supplemental wildlife habitats such as bird nest boxes and underground hibernation chambers for reptiles, are currently being finalized.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

Donor support makes projects like this possible. Every contribution helps bring these habitats to life and supports the wildlife that call Jekyll home, helping to turn former fairways into lasting flyways. To support conservation efforts on Jekyll Island, click HERE.