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
Don`t miss your chance to get tickets for Snakes of the Southeast!
This new, all-ages experience highlights some of the most beautiful and misunderstood animals of the Southeast: our native snake population. Participants can have a hands-on encounter with our non-venomous education ambassadors while learning about the extensive conservation research done with venomous snakes on Jekyll Island, tips for encounter identification, and how you can help ensure these unique animals remain safe in our environment.
Support conservation on Jekyll Island and get tickets today at jekyllisland.com.
#jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #preserve #conserve #educate #georgiacoast
A huge thank you to our Sustainer, Steward, and Guardian Sponsors for your extraordinary support of Jekyll Island | Gilded & Wild. Your commitment to Jekyll Island’s conservation and preservation efforts is what makes this event so impactful.
We are honored to have you as part of this journey and can’t wait to celebrate with you on May 2-4!
For more information on becoming a sponsor or attending Gilded & Wild, visit gildedandwild.com.
#gildedandwild #jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #preserve #conserve #educate #georgiacoast
Not able to join us for the whole weekend? You can still make an impact.
Attend the Gilded & Wild black-tie gala, celebrating the work of the Jekyll Island Foundation and the stewardship of Jekyll Island through conservation, preservation, and education initiatives. Attendees will enjoy live entertainment, a multi-course dinner, a live auction, and recognition of our generous sponsors.
Auction items include:
- A 5-Day Safaris Namibia Hunt + Observer
- Tyler Childers Concert Suite Package for 16
- A Norway vacation
- Dinner for 12 Under the Stars at Horton House
- And more!
Join us for an unforgettable evening in support of Georgia’s most intriguing barrier island.
For more information about Jekyll Island | Gilded & Wild and to register for the black-tie gala, visit gildedandwild.com.
#gildedandwild #jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #preserve #conserve #educate #georgiacoast
In 1963, Genoa and Mamie Martin became the first residents of Jekyll Island’s St. Andrews Subdivision—a set of segregated vacation homes at St. Andrews Beach. The Martins were already well-known leaders in Glynn County, and their beach house was the beginning of a thriving community.
St. Andrews Subdivision and St. Andrews Beach—the first public beach in Georgia accessible to Black visitors—offered a unique place for families to live, gather, and enjoy the beauty of the island.
What memories or stories do you have about St. Andrews Subdivision or its early days? We’d love to hear them!
© @mosaicmuseum
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The @georgiaseaturtlecenter is expanding visitor engagement with new virtual tools, including a livestream camera and an interactive tablet. These innovations bring our rehabilitation efforts to life, allowing both in-person and remote visitors to connect with our mission of sea turtle conservation.
Read more about virtual learning at the Georgia Sea Turtle Center at the For the Record link in our bio.
#jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #preserve #conserve #educate #georgiacoast
We are deeply grateful for our Sustainer and Steward Sponsors whose support is vital to the success of Jekyll Island | Gilded & Wild. Your dedication to preserving Jekyll Island’s natural and historic treasures ensures that future generations will be able to enjoy its beauty and significance.
Thank you for making this event possible! We can’t wait to come together May 2-4.
For more information on becoming a sponsor or attending Gilded & Wild, visit https://pulse.ly/cqgffsvq4c.
#gildedandwild #jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #preserve #conserve #educate #georgiacoast
Villa Ospo was designed in 1927 for Walter Jennings. Jennings had joined the Club in 1926, and quickly rose to a leadership role, assuming Presidency after the death of Walter James (his brother in-law).
Jennings contracted with John Russell Pope in 1927 to design his Jekyll retreat. Pope has been considered one of America’s finest classical architects, whose important works included the Jefferson Memorial, the National Gallery of Art, Constitution Hall, the National Archives, the Temple of the Scottish Rite in Washington, D.C., mansions for William K. Vanderbilt and Marshall Field, and campus plans for Yale and Johns Hopkins Universities.
Villa Ospo is a slight departure from Pope’s typical classical form but does hint at elements of classicism bleeding through. Typical of Pope’s work, most of Villa Ospo was probably designed by members of his firm after initial discussions between Pope and his client (Jennings). Pope would leave the details to his staff, and then add final touches to the final product before presenting the plans.
Ongoing historic preservation efforts in Jekyll’s Historic District are made possible through visitation to the @mosaicmuseum and through donations to the Jekyll Island Foundation.
Give today at the link in our bio.
#jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #preserve #conserve #educate
As part of Jekyll Island | Gilded & Wild, attendees will have the opportunity to choose from a variety of exciting excursions on Saturday, May 3. One option is Scutes and Scales—a journey into the world of reptiles. Unravel the mysteries and misconceptions surrounding the incredible species calling Jekyll Island home.
Get up close with a hands-on experience featuring the American Alligator, as well as native snakes and turtles. Dive deep into their unique biology, history, and the vital conservation efforts underway to protect them in their natural habitat. You`ll also wander through an active habitat restoration site and gain insights into the management planning that ensures these amazing creatures thrive for generations to come.
For more information about Jekyll Island | Gilded & Wild and to register, visit https://pulse.ly/jov9usbzx3.
#gildedandwild #jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #preserve #conserve #educate #georgiacoast
It`s Turtle Crawl, Y`all!
📅 April 26, 2025 at Beach Village
Race with us on Jekyll Island as we mark the start of sea turtle nesting season on the Georgia coast. This important fundraising event supports the lifesaving work of the Georgia Sea Turtle Center.
Whether you`re up for the 10K, 5K, 1K fun run or just want to be a virtual ghost crawler, your support helps continue the Center’s mission of sea turtle rehabilitation, research, and education.
Register today 👇
https://www.jekyllisland.com/signature-events/turtle-crawl/
#jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #preserve #conserve #educate #georgiacoast
A heartfelt thank you to our Sustainer Sponsors for their incredible generosity and support of Jekyll Island | Gilded & Wild. Your commitment to preserving and enhancing Georgia’s beautiful barrier island makes this event a reality, and we are grateful for your partnership. We look forward to celebrating with you May 2-4!
For more information on becoming a sponsor or attending Gilded & Wild, visit gildedandwild.com.
#GildedAndWild #jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #preserve #conserve #educate #georgiacoast
Jekyll Island | Gilded & Wild kicks off on Friday, May 2, with the Millionaire`s Mixer! Step back in time and join us for a progressive cocktail reception through the Historic District. Mingle with America’s turn-of-the-century tycoons, including JP Morgan and other well-to-do Club members.
You’ll move through three unique cottages—Indian Mound, Mistletoe, and Moss Cottages—sampling era-inspired hors d`oeuvres and cocktails while hearing fascinating stories of the Gilded Age.
For more information and tickets, visit gildedandwild.com
#gildedandwild #jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #preserve #conserve #educate #georgiacoast
The St. Andrews Auditorium was a vital part of Jekyll Island’s African American community in the 1960s. It hosted weddings, reunions, and celebrations that brought people together in joy and connection.
Do you have a memory of attending an event at the St. Andrews Auditorium, or do you know someone who does? Share your experience or their story with us—we’d love to hear about the moments that made this space special!
© @mosaicmuseum
#jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #preserve #conserve #educate
Stay up-to-date with all things Jekyll Island Foundation by joining our email list to receive our monthly newsletter.
Subscribe today at the link in our bio.
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Have you visited Faith Chapel yet?
Constructed in 1904 for the members of the Jekyll Island Club, Faith Chapel has welcomed visitors for more than a hundred years. From the heart pine flooring to the copper tip of the steeple, the combined elements immerse guests into Faith Chapel’s Club-Era past.
The furnishings in Faith Chapel complement the gothic-revival architecture, with their simple forms and trefoil cutouts recalling the technique of Medieval craftsman and the decoration of European Gothic cathedrals.
The Jekyll Island Foundation—in conjunction with the @jekyll_island Authority—remains committed to the preservation of the island’s historic resources. Future efforts are planned to ensure Faith Chapel is preserved for generations to come.
Ongoing historic preservation efforts in Jekyll’s Historic District are made possible through visitation to the @mosaicmuseum and through donations to the Jekyll Island Foundation.
Give today at the link in our bio.
#jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #preserve #conserve #educate
A heartfelt THANK YOU to the @jekyll_island Authority for their continued dedication to preserving the beauty and history of Jekyll Island for generations to come!
We are honored to partner with them on projects that focus on education, conservation, and preservation—ensuring this incredible island thrives today and in the future.
Explore the impactful work of the Jekyll Island Authority at https://pulse.ly/ftohbjvlb7
Interested in becoming a corporate sponsor? Learn how you can make a difference: https://pulse.ly/jwxnhejaku
#jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #preservation #conservation #education
In 1858, ten-year-old Umwalla was kidnapped from his home in Guinea, West Africa, and brought to Jekyll Island aboard the illegal slave ship Wanderer. Years later, in 1888, Umwalla described his capture, the harrowing transatlantic voyage, life in slavery, and memories of his homeland.
Today, the Wanderer Memory Trail at the south end of Jekyll Island follows in Umwalla’s footsteps, sharing the story of the Wanderer survivors. Located at the St. Andrews Picnic Area along the banks of the Jekyll River, where the ship illegally came ashore, the trail is made up of a series of interactive, self-guided exhibit stations.
These stations retrace Umwalla’s journey, from Africa to Georgia and from slavery to freedom. They represent the survivors’ transatlantic voyage, sale into slavery, pursuit of freedom, and lasting legacy of cultural contributions.
Have you visited the Wanderer Memory Trail? What part of the experience resonated most with you? Share your experience below.
#jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #preserve #conserve #educate
Looking for an experience you’ll never forget? Get tickets for Ride the Riverside: A Bike Tour of Jekyll Island.
Discover Jekyll Island`s Historic District on a guided tour on two wheels. The tour will explore Crane Trail and include a visit to Hollybourne Cottage for a first-floor walking tour.
Bicycle and helmets provided. Must be capable of riding a traditional, non-electric bicycle.
Get your tickets at https://pulse.ly/mfq1cymviw
#jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #preserve #conserve #educate #georgiacoast
Built in 1884, the Dubignon Cottage is one of the older buildings in the Jekyll Island Historic District. It was the home of wealthy entrepreneur John Eugene Dubignon, who owned the island prior to the Jekyll Island Club Corporation.
This home was originally located on the site of Sans Souci, but was moved to its present location in 1896 in preparation for the construction of Sans Souci. Mules pulled the house with the help of skids and logs. The structure was lowered onto brick piers, lattice was added under the porch and the exterior color scheme was altered to make the porch posts and window trim considerably darker. Decorative brackets and gutters were also added. It is likely that the Club added numerous enhancements, including the addition of faux marble to the fireplaces and decorative scoring on the hallway and parlor floors.
Today ongoing historic preservation efforts in Jekyll’s Historic District are made possible through visitation to the Mosaic, Jekyll Island Museum and through donations to the Jekyll Island Foundation.
Give today at the link in our bio.
© Mosaic, Jekyll Island Museum
#jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #preserve #conserve #educate
Help us say thank you to @westinjekyllisland , a longtime supporter of the Jekyll Island Foundation, for being a corporate sponsor!
This four-star luxury resort offers direct beach access and breathtaking ocean views. Next door is the Beach Village with shopping, dining and The Jekyll Island Convention Center.
The Westin Jekyll Island Beach Resort`s support allows us to fund projects promoting education, conservation and preservation on Jekyll Island.
Learn more about The Westin Jekyll Island Beach Resort at the link in our bio.
If you are interested in becoming a corporate sponsor, learn more at the link in our bio.
#jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #preserve #conserve #educate
In 1960, Dave Jackson, a respected businessman and farmer from Adel, Georgia, leased the Dolphin Club and Motor Hotel at St. Andrews Beach. Under his management and with the help of his family, the Dolphin Club became a thriving destination for Black vacationers on Jekyll Island.
The Jackson family transformed the property into a cornerstone of the Chitlin’ Circuit, a chain of venues that showcased Black performers and entertained Black audiences. The Dolphin Club Lounge hosted legendary acts like B.B. King, Clarence Carter, and Percy Sledge, while the nearby St. Andrews Auditorium welcomed Otis Redding in 1964.
Known for his generosity and community spirit, Dave Jackson brought his dedication to excellence to Jekyll Island, creating a welcoming space during a time of segregation. Though the Dolphin Club closed in 1966, its legacy—and the Jackson family’s impact—remain a celebrated part of Jekyll Island’s history.
Do you have a connection to the Dolphin Club or memories of the Jackson family’s time on Jekyll Island? Share your story in the comments!
© @mosaicmuseum
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Stay up-to-date with all things Jekyll Island Foundation by joining our email list to receive our monthly newsletter.
Subscribe today at the link in our bio.
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Long ago, Jekyll Island was only accessible via boat—usually a yacht owned by one of the wealthy Club Era patrons.
Here anchored the most luxurious pleasure craft in the world during the existence of the Jekyll Island Club, 1886-1942.
Other members entrained to Brunswick on their plush private railroad cars. There they were met at the train by the Club’s private launch, the Jekyll Island, under the command of James Agnew Clark. It ferried them across the wetlands to the Jekyll Island Club Wharf.
#DidYouKnow you can still visit and enjoy the historic Jekyll Island Wharf? Today, it features The Wharf, the island’s only waterfront restaurant located on the historic pier.
Ongoing historic preservation efforts in Jekyll’s Historic District are made possible through visitation to the Mosaic, Jekyll Island Museum and through donations to the Jekyll Island Foundation.
Give today at the link in our bio.
#jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #coastalgeorgia #georgia #georgiacoast #wharf #wharfjekyllisland #preserve #conserve #educate
Join us in saying a huge thank you to our corporate sponsor, the @jekyllclub! Your support furthers dozens of education, conservation, and preservation projects on Jekyll Island. Learn more about the Jekyll Island Club Resort at the Meet Our Corporate Sponsors link in our bio.
If you are interested in becoming a corporate sponsor, learn more at the Become a Corporate Sponsor link in our bio.
#jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #preserve #conserve #educate
Be part of something legendary—join us as a business sponsor for Jekyll Island | Gilded & Wild, Jekyll Island Foundation’s annual getaway and gala. Help support the preservation of Jekyll Island’s natural and historic treasures while making a lasting impact on this unique barrier island.
Get your business noticed and make a difference in our mission. Sponsorship deadline is March 19, 2025.
Visit gildedandwild.com to learn more.
#jekyllisland #jekyllislandfoundation #goldenisles #exploregeorgia #preserve #conserve #educate #georgiacoast #businesssponsor #gildedandwild #conservation #preservation
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!
© @mosaicmuseum
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P.O. Box 13002, Jekyll Island, GA 31527
Phone: (912) 635-4100
Looking to contact the Jekyll Island Authority? Please click here.
