Seabrook Island Natural History Group
Fall 2008 Trip Descriptions
Sign-up Deadline: July 25th
1. The Sewee Center & Red Wolves Fri, Sept 5 8:30a-3p Leader: Chuck
Would you like to learn about the S.C. Red Wolf Recovery Program and meet the critters face-to-face? How about following that up with a guided two-hour nature walk in the Francis Marion Forest to learn about the growing season of the native flowers, plants and trees that make up this ecosystem? The walk is on a natural trail with uneven footing that requires participants to keep up at a fairly brisk pace for approximately two hours. At the conclusion of the program, the Sewee Picnic Shelter will be available for those that choose to bring a lunch. www.seweecenter.fws.gov/
Min: 20 Max: 25 Cost: $5 Picnic facilities available
2. Jeremiah Farm Tour & Cheese-Making Mon, Sept 8 10a-1p Leader: Helen
Jeremiah Farm & Goat Dairy, located on 12 lush acres on the west side of Johns Island, has invited SINHG to tour the farm and participate in hands-on cheese-making. A tasting of the various cheeses will follow the tour.
http://jeremiahfarm.com
Min: 15 Max: 20 Cost: $15 No lunch plans
3. Colonial Dorchester Dig Tues, Sept 9 9a-3p Leader: Shirley
Located on the Ashley River in Summerville is the site of Colonial Dorchester-one of the earliest towns in SC, and a thriving trading center from 1697 through the Revolutionary War. Join site archeologist, Ashley Chapman, on a walking tour to see intact 17th century remains of the old town, including the brick bell tower of St George Anglican Church, the tabby wall which was once part of a fort, and part of a log wharf. After a picnic lunch, participate in the ongoing archeological dig which has revealed well-preserved building foundations, street systems and other evidence of colonial life in the old town. Moderate physical exercise, uneven terrain.
www.southcarolinaparks.com/park-finder/state-park/725.aspx
Min: 8 Max: 15 Cost: $5 Bring a picnic lunch
4. Birding on Seabrook Wed, Sept 10 8a-10:30p Leader: Tom
Both amateur and experienced birders will have opportunities to learn as we identify and study the birds of Seabrook Island with Ann Shahid, Important Bird Areas Coordinator for Audubon South Carolina's Center at Beidler Forest. Ann led several SINHG trips to Beidler Forest, and now she will help us learn the birds right in our own back yards. Extensive walking and standing to look for and observe birds at two locations on Seabrook Island, one inland and one coastal. Bring binoculars, sunscreen, and bug spray.
Min: 13 Max: 20 Cost: $10 No lunch plans
5. Biking/Hiking at Donnelley Fri, Sept 12 9a-1p Leader: Tom
In the heart of the ACE basin, Donnelley Wildlife Management Area is more than 8000 acres of wetland and upland habitats that include managed rice fields, forested wetlands, tidal marsh, and a variety of forest types, including a natural stand of longleaf pine. Whether you ride your bicycle on the 11 mile packed gravel loop road, or walk the 2.2 mile loop of the Boynton Nature Trail, numerous opportunities to observe interesting birds and other wildlife, and plant life, abound. Not recommended for bikes with skinny tires. Bathroom facilities, picnic table, and parking available at the check station, and parking available at the nature trail. Bring binoculars, camera, sunscreen, and bug spray. http://www.dnr.sc.gov/managed/wild/donnelley/description.html
Min: 10 Max: 40 Cost: $5 Bring a picnic lunch
6. Primate Preserve Mon, Sept 15 8:45a-1p Leader: Kimber
The International Primate Preserve & Sanctuary in Summerville is a rescue shelter for Gibbons housing up to 30 at a time. Our tour guide, Dr. Shirley McGreal, is renowned worldwide for her efforts here and for establishing the International Primate Protection League for which she was awarded the Order of the British Empire by Queen Elizabeth! This fascinating place is one of Charleston's best kept secrets. http://www.secondnaturecd.com/ippl.html
Min: 10 Max: 13 Cost: $22 No lunch plans
7. Hammock Islands Tues, Sept 16 8a-2:30p Leader: Bonnie
Come learn about the ACE Basin and the dynamics of a river estuary. Explore a hammock island. We'll begin with a brief slide presentation followed by a boat ride to the island where we'll spend a hour learning and exploring with the guidance of an expert naturalist. Bring a picnic lunch for the boat or beach (seating will be on the sand). Insect repellent is advisable. http://www.dnr.sc.gov/news/Yr2007/aug13/aug13_hammock islands
Min: 20 Max: 40 Cost: $5 Bring a picnic lunch
8. Explore Botany Island Wed, Sept 17 12:30p-4:30p Leader: Tom
Enjoy a three hour boat trip as we depart from Andell Bluff, bound for mysterious Botany Island. Watch dolphins feed and play, see an eagle's nest, and disembark on the island for beach-combing and shelling. We'll learn about the wildlife, shrimping industry, and history of this area from Captain/Naturalist Jesse Rowland. Bring bug spray, sunscreen, binoculars, and beach footwear.
Min: 35 Max: 40 Cost: $30 No lunch plans
9. Kayaking on Folly Creek (Novice) Tues, Sept 23 9:15a-1:45p Leader: Janet
Always wanted to try kayaking? This is your chance! Learn about the neighboring estuary of Folly Creek. Our guides know the area and the plants and wildlife we may encounter. All equipment is included in the cost. Just wear comfortable clothing and shoes that can get wet. Bring water, a hat, bug spray and sunscreen. Trip includes approximately 3 hours on the water. Picnic facility is available. You might also stop at Crosby Seafood to pick up shrimp for dinner! www.coastalexpeditions.com.
Min: 10 Max: 40 Cost: $55 No lunch plans
10. Kayaking on Folly Creek (Experienced) Thurs. Sep. 25 9:15a-1:45p Leader: Don
Enjoy a longer paddle and learn about the neighboring estuary of Folly Creek. Our guides will help us to learn about the plants and wildlife we may encounter. All equipment is included in the cost. The fee is $35 if you bring your own touring kayak of at least fifteen feet. Just wear comfortable clothing and shoes that can get wet. Bring water, a hat, bug spray and sunscreen. Trip includes approximately 3 hours on the water. Picnic facility is available. You might also stop at Crosby Seafood to pick up shrimp for dinner! www.coastalexpeditions.com.
Min: 10 Max: 40 Cost: $55/$35 No lunch plans
11. What's on the Beach? Mon, Sept 29 2p - 4p Leader: Tom
Walking on our beautiful beaches, how many of us have asked that question? What are those odd-looking rubbery things? Why do seashells look different? What are these animals and how do they live? During a walk on Seabrook Island's North Beach, marine biologist Tom Fox will describe the animals we find and tell us something about their lives and ecological importance. We will also learn about sand, tides, and other aspects of the physical environment of beaches. Join us and learn about your beaches and the animals that inhabit them. Bring your camera and sunscreen on this 1.5 - 2 mile walk.
Min: 8 Max: 20 Cost: $5 No lunch plans
12. Bull Island Wed, Oct 1 7:30a-5:45p Leader: Don
A 30-minute ferry ride will take our group to Bull Island, one of the best places for birding in the USA and home to a huge population of alligators. A naturalist will accompany our group as we take an interesting and RIGOROUS walk of approximately 7 miles that will include Boneyard Beach. Bring a picnic lunch, insect repellent, water, and a bag for collecting shells.
Min: 20 Max: 50 Cost: $37 Bring a picnic lunch
13. Art Discovery Tour Thurs, Oct 2 9a-1:30p Leader: Bonnie
Our tour begins at the Gibbes Museum of Art, with our favorite guide, Denny Stiles. We first go for a walk in the Church St/Tradd St neighborhoods with Denny telling us the artistic history of various homes and venues of authors and artists of the 1920's Charleston Renaissance. Listening to excerpts from some of the authors' work gives us an insight into this extraordinary Charleston era. This will include about 2 hours of walking and standing with some uneven terrain.
Min: 12 Max: 20 Cost: $22 No lunch plans
14. Charleston Church Tour Mon, Oct 6 9a-1:30p Leader: Janet
Join us as we stroll through Charleston's history and explore six of her most historic churches. On this 2-1/2 hour walking tour, we will hear stories of each church's exciting past. Churches included in the tour are Circular Congregational, St. Phillip's, French Huguenot, First Baptist, First (Scots) Presbyterian and St. Michael's. In addition, our guide will discuss the impact that historical figures had on their congregations and what part the church congregation played in the history of Charleston. 1mile walk; some stairs. www.uchistorytours.com.
Min: 10 Max: 28 Cost: $15 No lunch plans
15. Calhoun Mansion- Behind the Scenes Wed, Oct 8 9a-1p Leader: Sherry
Built in 1876, this lovely home is widely acclaimed as one of the greatest Post-Civil War houses on the East Coast. Encompassing 24,000 sq feet with 35 rooms and 23 period fireplaces, this very special tour takes us behind the scenes to see what is really inside and the history of it all. Frankie, the long time curator here, assures us we will NOT be disappointed! There will be some stair climbing involved.
Min: 5 Max: 20 Cost: $50 No lunch plans
16. Biking at Bonneau Ferry Tues, Oct 14 8a-4p Leader: Shirley
Just outside Monck's Corner, Bonneau Ferry is the site of several former rice plantations on the east branch of the Cooper River. Currently a Heritage Preserve and a Wildlife Management Area, the area covers 10,700 acres of pine savannahs, bottomland hardwoods, wetlands, reservoirs, rice fields and an abundance of wildlife. Join site naturalist and wildlife biologist, Will Carlisle, on a 10 mile bike tour which will include the ruins of the 18th century Comingtee Plantation house, a rice mill, and the Childsbury Towne Heritage Preserve with its intact Strawberry Chapel (1701). Bike paths are loose gravel or packed earth and not suitable for bikes with skinny tires-experienced bikers only. Please carpool, parking is limited. Bring bug spray, water and a snack for the mid-point. www.scwildlife.com/pubs/janfeb2006/bonneauferry.html
Min: 12 Max: 20 Cost: $5 Bring a picnic lunch
17. Historic Tour of Bluffton Thurs, Oct 16 8:30a-4p Leader: Kathy
Carpool south to Bluffton, near Hilton Head Island. We begin at Heyward House, one of only ten antebellum structures remaining in Bluffton, where we will tour the house museum and grounds. Then we will be accompanied by a guide for a 90 minute walking tour of Bluffton's historic homes and churches which remained after the city burned in 1863. Then enjoy a prepaid lunch at the Calhoun Street Cafe and on your own to visit the pottery studio and shop, art galleries and antique and collectible shops. www.heywardhouse.org
Min: 15 Max: 25 Cost: $24 Lunch included
18. Citadel Tour and Review Fri, Oct 17 1:30a-6 p Leader: Sherry
The Military College of South Carolina, The Citadel, is one of our most well known learning establishments, but how well do WE actually know it? Come enjoy our tour as we learn the History of The Citadel by going through the museum, take a walking tour of the campus and then actually be on hand with seats for the Military Dress Parade of cadets. We must carpool as parking is at a premium. We have 1 ½ hours of walking for the tour and museum. www.citadel.edu/archivesandmuseum
Min: 25 Max: 50 Cost: $5 No lunch plans
19. Charleston Air Force Base Tues, Oct 21 8:30a-3:30p Leader: Janet
We will have a guided tour of the Charleston Air Force base, home of the 437th Airlift Wing. Tour the inside of a C-17 Globemaster on the flight line. Additional highpoints include a military working dog demonstration and the Aerial Port Squadron facility where cargo is prepared and palletized for deployment. Chartered bus transportation to and from base in North Charleston, as well as a buffet lunch, are provided. www.charleston.af.mil.
Min: 30 Max: 40 Cost: $45 Lunch included
20. Caw Caw Creek Farm Wed, Oct 22 9a-3p Leader: Chuck
Caw Caw Creek Farm, located near St. Matthews in the Edisto River watershed, is a 90 acre farm with a mix of hardwoods and fields where the heirloom pastured pigs are allowed to roam freely. Owner Emile DeFelice will conduct a tour of the farm and explain why his organically grown pork is purchased by some of the finest chefs in the world! The trip includes transportation from Seabrook, the tour, and a picnic lunch featuring the Farm's pulled pork, coleslaw, watermelon salad, tea, lemonade, and beer.
http://cawcawcreek.com
Min: 15 Max: 20 Cost: $75 Lunch included
21. Churchyards of Charleston Mon, Oct 27 9a-12:30p Leader: Janet
Join us as we learn about Charleston's history by exploring several of her most interesting churchyards. On this 90 minute walking tour, we will visit three historic churchyards in downtown Charleston. We will discuss graveyard art, burial customs and notable people who contributed to the history of the city. Walking and standing with some uneven terrain.
Min: 10 Max: 28 Cost: $15 No lunch plans
22. College of Charleston Historic Buildings Tues, Oct 28 9a-1p Leader: Sherry
Many buildings on the College of Charleston Campus have a great deal of historical significance. Visit some of the oldest homes with our wonderful tour guide, Tony Meyer on this 2 ½ hour walking tour. Visit the historic Blacklock home built in 1800 and the Wilson-Sottile home built in 1890, as well as other buildings from the 1770's. This is more than just a campus tour!
Min: 15 Max: 20 Cost: $5 No lunch plans
23. Johns Island Presbyterian Church and Sea Island Tour Wed, Oct 29 10:30a-4p Leader: Kathy
Take a guided tour of historic Johns Island Presbyterian Church. The church, built in 1719, is believed to be the oldest wooden sanctuary in the five major cities of Colonial America. Church Historian, Mary Hills, will fascinate you with 289 years of history. Following the church tour, we will enjoy our lunch on the grounds at the picnic pavilion. Then, it's off for a two hour motorized Sea Island tour with Al Miller. We will see and hear about McLeod Plantation, Fort Lamar Battleground, Burn Churchyard cemetery, the Mass 54th Regiment, the Stono Rebellion, and much more. Rumor has it that if we ask him nicely, Al might just perform a bit of Porgy and Bess for us.
Min: 9 Max: 20 Cost: $37 Bring a picnic lunch
24. Hobcaw Barony & Hampton Plantation Thurs, Oct 30 7:30a-5p Leader: Shirley
Carpool to Georgetown and visit two major SC plantations. Hobcaw, between Winyah Bay and the Atlantic, was established by a land grant in 1718 by King George. It later became a winter retreat for Bernard Baruch, where he hosted Winston Churchill, FDR, and many other notables. A guided van trip will explore the extensive property and programs. On the banks of Wambaw creek in the Santee Delta is Hampton, now a state historic site, a bustling rice plantation in the 18th and 19th centuries. Be guided through the Georgian-style mansion (the portico was added before a visit by President Washington in 1791) and take a 2 ½ mile self guided tour of the grounds which include a historic kitchen building, gardens, rice fields, archeological sites and incredible oaks. www.stateparks.com/hampton_plantation.html
www.hobcawbarony.org
Min: 20 Max: 26 Cost: $25 Bring a picnic lunch
25. Charleston Coffee Roaster Fri, Oct 31 9a-1p Leader: Sherry
Come to Charleston and learn about the history of coffee. Experience roasting first hand, with Master Coffee Roaster, Jen Fox. "Even the most seasoned coffee freak will learn a thing or two from time spent with Fox" (Charleston Magazine). Observe an actual roasting of a 20 pound batch and sample eight different roasts of coffee, accompanied by pastries from Saffron. www.CharlestonCoffeeRoasters.com
Min: 15 Max: 34 Cost: $5.00 No lunch plans
26. Camp St. Christopher: Sat, Nov 1 7:30a-10:30a Leader: Janet
Ornithology & Tracking
Join David Gardner, the Barrier Island Program Director, for a walk in the woods at Camp St. Christopher to enjoy early morning birding and animal tracking. The program will include a two and a half mile hike over rough terrain, including various changes in elevation. This hike is only meant for very able-bodied participants. Bring your binoculars, water, and insect repellent; hiking boots recommended. www.stchristopher.org
Min: 10 Max: 20 Cost: $5 No lunch plans
27. The Spirit of South Carolina Tall Ship Wed, Nov 5 9:45a-4p Leader: Kimber
The term "Tall Ship" brings to mind billowing sails, salt air, sun and gliding silently through the water. All of this and more will greet you when you and other SINHG members go on board The Spirit of South Carolina, the 140 foot, 2 masted "Tall Ship" built to 1875 plans. Four hours sailing in Charleston Harbor, with a history lesson and magnificent views of the waterfront, Fort Sumter, etc.-what a memorable experience! www.scmaritime.org
Min: 40 Max: 40 Cost $65 Bring your own lunch
28. Edisto Island Tour I Thurs, Nov 6 8:15a-3p Leader: Kathy
Tour Edisto Island, its plantations and churches by van with Marie Asbil, a native who "knows it all". Afterwards enjoy a buffet lunch prepared by local ladies. Following lunch you may explore the beach at the Edisto Island State Park (optional). Minimal walking involved during the tour.
Min: 6 Max: 10 Cost: $32 Lunch included
29. A Charleston Restoration Sampler Tues, Nov 11 9a-3p Leader: Shirley
Tour four classic Charleston historic properties-Lowndes Grove (the existing house is 1786, the Grove Farm, 1701), the William-Aiken House (1811), the American Theater (1942) and a Charleston single house (1837 - currently, Fish Restaurant). Our guides will focus on both the history of each property, its restoration and the adaptation to its current contemporary use. The tour will end at the newly expanded Fish, where you will select your choice of a three course lunch. Lots of walking and standing. Note: There is an earlier cancellation date for this trip - it is Friday, Oct 31.
Min: 16 Max: 25 Cost: $60 Lunch included
30. Edisto Island Tour II Wed, Nov 12 8:15a-3p Leader: Kimber
Tour Edisto Island, its plantations and churches by van with Marie Asbil, a native who "knows it all". Afterwards enjoy a buffet lunch prepared by local ladies. Following lunch you may explore the beach at the Edisto Island State Park (optional). Minimal walking involved during the tour.
Min: 6 Max: 10 Cost: $32 Lunch included
31. Post & Courier Thurs, Nov 13 9a-12:30p Leader: Kimber
Wonder how the night's news gets to your doorstep at 6:00 AM? Find out with this tour of the South's oldest daily newspaper. From Newsroom to Pressroom with stops in advertising and circulation you will see how this finely tuned operation works. http://www.charleston.net/
Min: 12 Max: 24 Cost $5 No lunch plans
32. West of King Walking Tour Thurs, Nov 13 9a-1p Leader: Shirley
Back by popular demand!! The April trip was rained out and you've asked for another! Claire Allen again demonstrates her talent for history and story telling. Travel west of the old walled city down the "Broad Path" to visit and hear the history of streets seldom explored -- including Orange, Magazine, Franklin, Archdale, and Queen. See the Old Jail, a 19th century bordello district, churches often missed, the original sites of MUSC and Roper Hospitals, and the Old Jenkins Orphanage. Lots of walking - wear comfy shoes.
Min: 12 Max: 20 Cost: $15 No lunch plans
33. Camp St Christopher: Let's See Plants Sat, Nov 15 9:30a-1p Leader: Chuck
David Gardner, the Barrier Island Program Director, will lead us on a hiking study of vegetation changes from the seashore to the maritime forest. The program will consist of a two and a half mile hike over rough terrain, including various changes in elevation. This hike is only meant for very able-bodied participants. After the hike a delicious buffet lunch will be awaiting us in the camp's cafeteria. www.stchristopher.org
Min: 10 Max: 20 Cost: $15 Lunch included
34. Walk Charleston's Charming Alleys Tues, Nov 18 9a-1p Leader: Kathy
View Charleston a bit differently, through her alleys - shortcuts and traffic dodges for natives, inside insights for visitors. Join Claire Allen and explore these tucked-away delights. Includes Zig Zag, Price's, Stoll's and Bedons Alleys. among others. Lots of walking - wear comfy shoes.
Min: 12 Max: 20 Cost: $15 No lunch plans
35. Historic Kingstree Wed, Dec 3 8a-4p Leader: Kathy
Travel by chartered bus north 1 ½ hours to historic Kingstree, a lovely town settled in 1731. It marks the site of several Revolutionary War battles engaging troops led by Francis Marion. We will tour the Williamsburg Historical Museum that contains many artifacts, Thorntree House, which was built in 1749 by James Witherspoon, and Gilland Park, alongside the scenic Black River. See the town decorated for Christmas. Our tour will conclude with lunch at Williamsburg County's award winning restaurant, Brown's Barbecue. www.williamsburgsc.org
Min: 25 Max: 45 Cost: $48 Lunch included
36. Holiday Chocolates Sat, Dec 6 2p-5p Leader: Helen
Former McCrady's pastry chef and professional chocolatier Charlie Moore will explain the history of chocolate and chocolate-making, as well as demonstrate the techniques of tempering, seeding, and much more. Hands-on participation in making truffles, pralines, haystacks, etc.-the perfect homemade gifts for the season! Holiday gift boxes will be provided for you to take home the goodies you make. This event will be offered here on Seabrook Island.
Min: 8 Max: 14 Cost: $50 No meal plans
37. A Dickens Afternoon Tea Wed, Dec 10 4p-6p Leader: Chuck
Using Mr. Dickens own script, Storyteller Tim Lowry performs this holiday classic in the style of the "venerable Boz", combining a variety of voices, comic characters, and animated narration. This one-man show is a delightfully imaginative journey back in time ito the days of Victorian England and the public readings of the most celebrated author of the English language. A traditional English afternoon tea will be featured in the Deveaux Room at the Seabrook Island Club with our Storyteller. The menu includes assorted tea sandwiches, pastries, coffee, and tea. Champagne will be available for purchase. For added fun, we invite everyone to bring their favorite teacup! www.storytellertimlowry.com
Min: 45 Max: 45 Cost: $40 Traditional Afternoon Tea Included
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