Frequently asked questions

What is the Barnwell Tabby?

The Barnwell Tabby is the oldest standing building on Hilton Head Island. It's made of tabby, a building material that mixes lime, oyster shells, sand, and ash. The thick walls and angled windows make it special. It sits on private land owned by the Barnwell family.

How old is it?

Scientists now believe the tabby was built between 1730 and 1750. That makes it almost 300 years old! For many years, people thought it was built in the 1800s. New research shows it's much older than anyone knew.

What was it used for?

That's still a mystery! Some researchers think it might have been a house where plantation owners stayed while visiting the property. Or it could have been a muster house - a building used to watch for danger. The angled windows would let people see far in all directions. More digging and research may help solve this puzzle.

Who built it?

Enslaved people from Africa built the tabby. They knew how to make this strong building material. Similar buildings have been made in West Africa for thousands of years.

Where is it located?

The tabby sits on Squire Pope Road on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. It's close to Skull Creek and near where Mitchelville once stood. Mitchelville was the first self-governed town run by formerly enslaved people in the American South, created before President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation of 1863.

Can I visit?

Tours are available for groups and media by request only. Contact us to ask about visiting. The tabby is on private property, so please don't visit without permission.

Who owns it now?

The Barnwell family has owned this land since the 1930s. Thomas Barnwell Jr. and his wife, Susan, take care of the tabby today. They want to share its history with others and help people learn.

Why is this tabby important?

This building helps tell the story of Hilton Head's early history. It shows how enslaved people used their skills to build lasting structures. It also helps us understand what life was like almost 300 years ago on the island.

What makes the Barnwell family special?

Thomas Barnwell Jr.'s family roots go back to slavery on the island. His great-great-grandparents escaped from a nearby plantation and came to Hilton Head during the Civil War.

Are there educational programs?

Yes! The family is working with teachers and historians to create learning materials. Students and teachers can use these resources to study local history. Contact us to learn more about educational opportunities.

Is research still happening?

Yes! Archaeologists and historians are still studying the tabby. They find new artifacts and learn new things all the time. This makes the tabby a living piece of history where discoveries are still being made.

How was the tabby restored?

The Barnwell family has spent many years and their own money fixing the tabby. They hired experts to rebuild damaged walls using the same materials as the original builders. A roof was added to protect the walls from rain.

What is tabby made of?

Tabby is made by mixing lime, water, sand, oyster shells and ash. The builders used shells from nearby Native American shell rings. You can still see bits of ancient pottery mixed in the walls.

For tour requests, educational resources, or media inquiries, please contact us through our website.