Monday, March 23, 2026: After much waiting—and one postponed attempt—we finally made it to Jekyll Island for the first time. We had skipped it during our earlier visit to Darien because there was simply too much to do in Darien, Brunswick, and St. Simons Island. This time, we held out for the perfect weather—and Monday delivered.
We began our visit at the Mosaic Jekyll Island Museum, housed in a set of restored stables from the island’s early days as a retreat for America’s wealthiest families. Much like the welcome center on St. Simons Island, Mosaic provides excellent background on the island’s history along with guided tours.
We initially signed up for the trolley tour, but wanting something more personal, we upgraded to the “Millionaire Tour”—a decision that turned out to be well worth it.
Before the tour, we stopped for lunch at Founders Social. Tucked into the historic district, it sits on the grounds where the servants’ compound once stood in the 1930s. The menu was simple, but everything was well done—an easy and enjoyable stop before the afternoon’s tour.
Our guide, Vickey, was outstanding. Having spent most of her life on and around the island, she brought both deep knowledge and personal insight to the experience.
For the next hour, we rode in a 1930s Model T replica as she chauffeured us through the historic district, sharing stories about the island’s past. Along the way, we passed several cottages that immediately caught our attention, and we asked to include Indian Mound Cottage in our tour.
The preservation and restoration of the cottage were especially impressive. Inside, we learned more about how Jekyll Island transitioned from a private retreat to a state park.
History has a way of repeating itself—great wealth is built, but not always sustained. Over time, heirs lose interest, priorities shift, and places like this are left behind. After World War II, many families abandoned the island, and by 1947, the state of Georgia acquired the property for just $675,000 when taxes went unpaid.
Even more fascinating was what happened next. Many homes still contained personal belongings when the state took over. These items were carefully packed and stored, including those from Indian Mound Cottage. Years later, a family heir provided photographs of the home’s interior, allowing curators to identify and return many of the original furnishings.
That attention to detail made the experience feel authentic—and personal.
The tour also included a self-guided visit to Faith Chapel, built in 1904 for members of the Jekyll Island Club. While the exterior is simple, the interior is stunning.
The Bourne Memorial Window, created by Tiffany and installed in 1921, honors Frederick Bourne, president of the Singer Sewing Machine Company. Behind the pulpit is another remarkable piece—the Adoration of the Christ Child window, designed by Tiffany apprentices Maitland and Helen Armstrong.
With the afternoon sun shining directly through the stained glass, the entire chapel seemed to glow. Both inside and out, carved beams adorned with gargoyles add to its understated Gothic character.
We finished the day by driving the road that circles the island, passing beaches, neighborhoods, and quiet stretches of coastline.
Along the way, we were reminded of something Vicki had mentioned earlier: development on Jekyll Island is strictly limited by Georgia law to just 1,675 acres—about 35% of the island—to preserve its natural coastal environment. New construction is only allowed if it replaces an existing structure.
Even after covering so much ground, the island still felt calm and largely untouched.
Jekyll Island offers something a little different from other coastal destinations. It’s not just about beaches—it’s about history, preservation, and the stories left behind.
For a first visit, it struck a great balance between exploration and relaxation, and it’s definitely a place we’ll return to.
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Oh my goodness, Kevin and Beth! You are both so delightful and I am so blessed to have been the one to take you around the Historic district! I will continue to follow your amazing journeys and the beautiful depiction of all the wonderful things you see and encounter along the way!!!
Vickey – Historic Interpreter, Jekyll Island