Johns Island - Another Secret Paradise

An 84 square mile island to rival Martha’s Vineyard with a rich history that includes a revolt on par with the epic Amistad revolt! Only in South Carolina can you find such a wonderous place as Johns Island! Originally inhabited by the Stono, Kiawah, and Bohicket Indian tribes, the island’s native population and new white settlers soon came into conflict when members of the Stono tribe killed some of the settlers’ cattle.

Native tribes were defeated by the new settlers and the colonial period saw many indigo plantations dependant on slave labor rise along the banks of the Stono River. September 1739 saw the Stono Rebellion, in which slaves attempted to escape to Spanish occupied Florida and freedom. Moving to Stono Bridge and raiding Hutchinson’s Store to procure ammunition and food, participants killed the owners of the store and left their heads on the steps!

The party proceeded toward Florida until discovered by the Lieutenant Governor who rallied plantation owners to put an end to the rebellion. The American Revolution arrived on the island in 1799 with the end result of British occupation of the island being the fall of Charleston and its surrender to the British in 1780. The Civil War saw The Battle of Bloody Bridge play out on Johns Island, with 2,000 South Carolina soldiers holding off a Union force of 8,000! The Battle of Charleston Reenactment is held yearly at Legare Farms, and allows visitors an opportunity to experience 19th century culture, food, and a reenactment of the Battle of Bloody Bridge.

Not only is the island’s history diverse and fascinating, but its wildlife is as well. Egrets, duck, heron, osprey, eagles, hawks, wild turkey and geese abound for the ardent bird watcher, and deer, bobcats, otters, dolphins, wild boars, and alligator provide ample opportunity for wildlife observation.

History enthusiasts can visit the Johns Island Presbyterian Church. Built in 1719, the church is one of the oldest churches in the United States built from a wooden frame. Angel Oak Park allows visitors to revel in the majesty of a 65 foot tall 1,400 year old Spanish moss draped oak tree while relaxing with a picnic basket.

Not just limited to the usual coastal outdoor activities, Johns Island is the site of the magnificent Mullet Hall Equestrian Center. Its beautifully maintained 738 acres including four show rings and a Grand Prix Dressage ring make it a natural location for a plethora of festivals, competitions and events that are sure to make an equestrian’s heart sing. Plenty of room for lunging, jumping, 40 acres of lush grass turnout and 196 stalls meticulously cleaned make it a paradise for the pampered horse as well as the rider, and what better reward for both after a hard working session than a relaxing hack out on the 20 beautiful miles of trails?

So come on down to Johns Island, sample one of the delicious locally grown tomatoes and let us show you the true beauty of this lovely place. Waterfront vistas abound whether your desire is the sound, a river, a beautiful creek, or the majesty of a marsh sunset we can help you find your dream home in a historical paradise just a small hop away from Charleston. With prices starting around $400,000, paradise is more affordable than ever. Search for Johns Island homes for sale on our website and then call us for a tour!