Want to learn more about Daniel Island history? Look for the signs! Four new historical markers, created by the Daniel Island Historical Society and funded through a grant by the Daniel Island Community Fund, have been placed at various locations on the island.
A sign detailing the history surrounding Mitchell Pier has been installed near the Wando River waterfront adjacent to the “tree house” at the end of Wando Landing Street. The site was once bustling with activity as produce from the island’s truck farming businesses were packaged and shipped off to Charleston and beyond. A Codner’s Plantation marker is located near the traffic circle past Bishop England High School. The sign marks the area that formerly served as the plantation home of Richard Codner, who was first granted land on Daniel Island in 1680 by the Lords Proprietors. Information on Raven’s Creek can be found on a sign at the entrance to the pier/boardwalk in Barfield Park. Many landings were located along the creek in the 1700s and 1800s for the movement of goods and supplies, such as those created at the former “Simmons Rice Mill.” A marker has also been placed at the former site of Fairbanks Plantation near Governors Park to detail history surrounding land ownership in that area.
“The Daniel Island Community Fund was proud to partner with DIHS on the historical marker project,” said Jane Baker, vice president of community services for the Daniel Island Property Owners Association. “It is an important opportunity for us to educate property owners and visitors of the rich history our beautiful island holds.”
“We are so thankful to the Daniel Island Community Fund for supporting this very important project,” added Brenda Thorn, president of the Daniel Island Historical Society. “Our mission has always been to share the island’s story with both residents and visitors, and this endeavor most certainly allows us to do just that. We are delighted that those enjoying our community’s beautiful walking trails will now be able to learn more about our island’s past, giving us all a better appreciation for what came before us.”
Additional markers denoting other areas of historical significance are already in the works, noted Thorn. All markers contain a “QR” code that passersby may scan using a smartphone device to link to the Daniel Island Historical Society website (www.dihistoricalsociety.com) for further information.
