Friends – Jekyll Island Foundation

Friends

Dear Foundation Friends,

When you visit Jekyll Island, it’s almost impossible NOT to take great pictures. You probably have a few on your smart phone of yourself with Jekyll’s pristine beauty or historic buildings in the background. If this is indeed the case, why not share? Post them to Facebook and Instagram using #JekyllIslandFoundation. Chances are you’ll see them here, and help us make even more friends!

Thanks,

Dion Davis
Executive Director

What makes Hollybourne Cottage unlike any other?

Built in 1890, it’s the only Jekyll Island Club cottage made from tabby—a historic material crafted from lime, sand, oyster shells, and water. Designed by Charles Stewart Maurice, a renowned bridge builder, this 12,600 sq. ft. masterpiece incorporates innovative features like suspension trusses and stepped piers.

Today, Hollybourne stands as a tribute to Maurice’s ingenuity and the enduring elegance of Gilded Age life.

Help us preserve this treasure and bring its story to life with new exhibits.

Learn more about how you can support this project at the link in our bio.

©Jekyll Island Museum

#jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #preserve #conserve #educate #georgiacoast
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From sea turtles on Jekyll’s oceanfront beaches, to freshwater turtles and box turtles on the island’s interior, to diamondback terrapins that inhabit our marshes, each one is studied by the @georgiaseaturtlecenter team and @jekyll_island Authority conservationists.

GSTC day and night beach patrols are part of a unique, long-running project—consistently supporting egg protection, hatchling development, and better coastal habitat management.

Support this great work through a tax-deductible contribution at the link in our bio.

#jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #preserve #conserve #educate
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Villa Marianna was constructed in 1928 for Club member Frank Miller Gould, a second-generation member. Architect Mogens Tvede used a blend of Spanish Eclectic and Italian Renaissance in the style of this cottage.

Another mansion-turned-rental venue is Villa Marianna. It was built in 1928 for Frank Miller Gould, who was lucky enough to be a second-generation member of the esteemed Jekyll Island Club. The mansion was designed for Gould by Mogens Tvede, whose use of Spanish Eclectic and Italian Renaissance elements gave the cottage an exotic flair. Gould named it for his daughter, Marianne. One of the first buildings renovated, it once housed the offices of the Jekyll Island Authority.

Ongoing historic preservation efforts in Jekyll’s Historic District are made possible through visitation to the Jekyll Island Museum and through donations to the Jekyll Island Foundation.

Give today at the link in our bio.

#jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #preserve #conserve #educate
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Keep Jekyll Island a haven for birds!

Coastal Georgia’s value to birds as a migratory stopover and a seasonal refuge is immense. Nonetheless, many species of birds, here and worldwide, are suffering troubling population losses.

Your generosity enables the Jekyll Island Authority Conservation staff to do everything they can to make sure Jekyll Island is part of the conservation solution for birds, not part of the problem—from research and monitoring to educational partnerships and programs.

Donate today to support this initiative at the link in our bio.

#jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #preserve #conserve #educate
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The alligators of Jekyll Island are a vital part of a rich ecosystem. These magnificent creatures have been around for years, serving as both predators and keystone species in the marshes.

📸 Spotting the Gators
Check out freshwater ponds, like Horton Pond, and marshes around the island. Remember, safety first! Always maintain a respectful distance. These are wild animals, so no feeding or disturbing them. Let`s keep their habitat safe and natural.

🌱 Conservation Efforts
We`re committed to preserving the natural habitats of Jekyll Island`s alligators. Ongoing studies help the Jekyll Island Authority Conservation Team understand and protect these incredible creatures. Participate in educational tours, like Gatorology, and Ranger Walks to learn more about the importance of alligators in our ecosystem.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Support Conservation
Your donations help us support the Jekyll Island Authority Conservation Team`s work of protecting these magnificent creatures and their habitats.

👉 Discover more about Jekyll Island wildlife and conservation efforts at the link in our bio.

#jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #preserve #conserve #educate
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What makes Faith Chapel’s Tiffany window so unforgettable?

Crafted by Tiffany Studios in 1921, the Bourne Memorial Window is considered one of the most vibrant examples of Louis Comfort Tiffany’s legendary “paintings in glass.” This masterpiece honors Frederick Bourne, a cherished member and former president of the Jekyll Island Club.

A century later, this iconic window continues to captivate visitors with its radiant beauty.

Ongoing historic preservation efforts in Jekyll’s Historic District are made possible through visitation to the Jekyll Island Museum and through donations to the Jekyll Island Foundation.

Give today at the link in our bio.

#jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #preserve #conserve #educate #georgiacoast
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Together we can make a lasting impact.

By becoming a member or renewing your membership, you are directly supporting the conservation, preservation, and education efforts that help make Jekyll Island unique.

Join or renew today at the link in our bio.

#jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #preserve #conserve #educate
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Discover Horton Pond on Jekyll Island, a serene escape where nature meets nurture. Following the installation of a wheelchair-accessible observation deck in 2015, visitors have enjoyed unparalleled views of local wildlife in their natural habitats. This project, part of the Jekyll Island Foundation`s commitment to environmental stewardship, ensures everyone can experience the island`s beauty up close.

The Jekyll Island Authority Conservation Department diligently manages Horton Pond, employing eco-friendly practices such as a solar-powered aeration system to maintain a healthy ecosystem without harsh chemicals. From April through September, the Gatorology program provides insights into the fascinating world of alligators.

Donate to the Jekyll Island Foundation to support ongoing efforts to preserve and educate by visiting the link in our bio! Your contributions help sustain these vital programs!
#jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #preserve #conserve #educate
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Built in 1890 for Jekyll Island Club founder Charles Stewart Maurice, Hollybourne Cottage is one of the oldest and most distinctive structures in the Historic District.

This year, the story of Hollybourne is being told like never before. With new interactive exhibits, rare family artifacts, and engaging programs like "A Bridge to the Past" and "Adventures in Architecture," the cottage has reclaimed center stage. Whether you explore by trolley, bike, or scavenger hunt, now is the perfect time to experience Hollybourne!

Discover how this beloved home is stepping into the spotlight once again and how you can be part of preserving its story for generations to come.

Read more about The Year of Hollybourne at the For the Record link in our bio.

#jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #preserve #conserve #educate #georgiacoast
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When was the last time you visited the Jekyll Island Museum?

In addition to interactive exhibits, stunning visuals, and captivating audio that bring the history of this magical island to life the Jekyll Island Museum itself is a part of the Jekyll Island Club National Historic Landmark.

Mosaic was constructed within the existing footprint of the historic stables building, preserving its unique architecture.

The design showcases the building’s original features, with high lofted ceilings and open space, allowing visitors to connect with the island’s rich history while supporting its preservation.

Ongoing historic preservation efforts in Jekyll’s Historic District are made possible through visitation to the Jekyll Island Museum and through donations to the Jekyll Island Foundation.

Donate today at the link in our bio.

#jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #preserve #conserve #educate #georgiacoast
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Honor your friends and loved ones with a bench in one of Jekyll Island`s most scenic areas.

Adopt-A-Bench at the link in our bio.

#jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #preserve #conserve #educate
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#DidYouKnow — You can step back in time to the Gilded Age and experience the stories of the Jekyll Island Club through immersive living history programs?

Through a collaboration with the Jekyll Island Authority’s Historic Resources Department and Jekyll Island Museum, the Living History Experience offers guests the chance to ride the iconic trolley and explore historic “cottages” once owned by club members. Inside, costumed interpreters bring the era to life with tales of the people who shaped Jekyll’s storied past.

This is just one of many projects the Foundation has helped fund to preserve, protect, and share Jekyll Island’s unique character. Through donations, membership, and corporate sponsorships, these efforts continue to educate and inspire future generations.

Discover more about the history of the Jekyll Island Foundation and how your support can make a difference at the link in our bio.

#jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #preserve #conserve #educate #georgiacoast
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Wishing everyone a safe and memorable Independence Day surrounded by family, friends, and the beauty of summer. As we celebrate the birth of our nation, let`s also take a moment to appreciate the places that make America so special—from peaceful shorelines to historic landmarks.

Happy Fourth of July from the Jekyll Island Foundation team!

#jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #preserve #conserve #educate #georgiacoast
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Discover the stories of Jekyll Island’s rich past at the the Jekyll Island Museum, where every visit directly supports ongoing historic preservation efforts in the island’s Historic District. Your exploration of this captivating history helps maintain the beauty and integrity of these beloved landmarks for future generations to enjoy.

Plan your visit today!

Can`t visit this year? Support preservation efforts through a donation to the Jekyll Island Foundation at the link in our bio.

#jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #preserve #conserve #educate
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Long before the present-day causeway was built, the only way to reach Jekyll Island was by boat. ⛵ Today, from airboat tours to dolphin tours, Jekyll Island has plenty of ways to see and experience the waters and wildlife that surround the island.

#jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #preserve #conserve #educate
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Sea turtle nesting season is in full swing—and now you can follow along in real time. The Sea Turtle Tracker dashboard is updated within seconds of each new nest discovery, with daily counts, season trends, and a nesting hot spot heat map.

Whether you`re on the beach or miles away, it`s never been easier to stay connected to the season and see the impact of every nest found.

Explore the dashboard at the link in our bio.

#jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #preserve #conserve #educate #georgiacoast
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#DidYouKnow - Goodyear Cottage was built in 1906 for the lumber baron, Frank Henry Goodyear of Buffalo, New York. There are seven rooms and a half-bath on the first floor and five bedrooms and three baths on the second floor. The third floor originally contained a servant’s room, a bath, and a storage area.

The house was restored in 1974 and is now used as a center for the creative arts, housing the Jekyll Island Arts Association and the Jekyll Island Pottery Guild. Exhibits by both local and visiting artists are on display monthly.

Ongoing historic preservation efforts in Jekyll’s Historic District are made possible through visitation to the Jekyll Island Museum and through donations to the Jekyll Island Foundation.

Give today at the link in our bio.

#jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #preserve #conserve #educate
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Members are an integral part of the work of the Jekyll Island Foundation, and we are always excited to welcome more individuals to this special group!

Foundation membership is a very simple process and allows you a number of wonderful privileges as you visit Jekyll Island. Membership privileges expand with the amount of your gift and include annual island parking passes, guest amenity passes, gift shop discounts, and more.

Learn more about our membership benefits at the Become a Member link in our bio.

#jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #preserve #conserve #educate
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School was an important part of life for Jekyll Island’s working families. By the 1920s, the last home on Red Row had been converted into a schoolhouse for children of the African American employees of the Jekyll Island Club.

On average, 10-15 pupils attended the little schoolhouse. Over the years, teachers included Professor Wilder, Katye Cash, and Anna Hill, who grew up on Jekyll Island herself.

When not in class, many children worked odd jobs on the island, serving as caddies, boat launch staff, and elevator operators for the millionaire members of the Jekyll Island Club.

Do you know stories about the School on Red Row or the children who attended? We’d love to hear them—share in the comments below!

©Jekyll Island Museum

#jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #preserve #conserve #educate
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Kick off your summer with a walk through history. Adventures in Architecture – A Scavenger Hunt invites you to explore the exteriors of Jekyll Island’s Historic District and uncover the architectural details that often go unnoticed.

From Gilded Age grandeur to hidden craftsmanship, each stop reveals something new for the sharp-eyed visitor. Start your self-guided journey at Mosaic, Jekyll Island Museum, where maps are available to begin the hunt.

Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a unique way to spend the day, this is one adventure you won’t want to miss.

Get tickets at the link in our bio.

#jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #preserve #conserve #educate #georgiacoast
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What was Indian Mound Cottage like before it became the Rockefeller retreat?

Built in 1892 by Gordon McKay, the home originally had a much simpler design. It featured just one public room—the parlor near the front door—with the rest of the house dedicated to bedrooms, each with its own private bath. This unique layout still influences the home today, with a bathroom opening onto the Reception Room.

By 1905, William Rockefeller purchased the property and began transforming it into the remarkable home you see today.

Ongoing historic preservation efforts in Jekyll’s Historic District are made possible through visitation to the Jekyll Island Museum and through donations to the Jekyll Island Foundation.

Support preservation efforts at the link in our bio.

©Jekyll Island Museum

#jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #preserve #conserve #educate
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Honor your friends and loved ones by adopting a palm tree in one of Jekyll Island`s most scenic areas. 🌴

Existing tree adoptions help to fund conservation and preservation efforts on Jekyll Island. Learn how to adopt a palm tree on Jekyll Island at the link in our bio.

#jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #preserve #conserve #educate
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Contact Us

Jekyll Island Foundation

P.O. Box 13002, Jekyll Island, GA 31527
Phone: (912) 635-4100

 

Looking to contact the Jekyll Island Authority? Please click here.