Tasting Gullah: A Culinary Heritage Tour
By Hilton Head Insider
Ideal for: Foodies and experiential travelers
- Sweetgrass Basket Making Workshop: At Coastal Discovery Museum (Honey Horn campus) the class is led by Gullah artisans and introduces the material craft of the region (perfect for hands-on visitors).
Afternoon:
- Explore the Spanish Wells area to learn about community gardens and the legacy of Gullah farming on your own or through a guided Gullah Heritage Trail Tour.
- Discover the Barnwell Tabby - Hilton head Island’s oldest pre-revolutionary war structure Built of "tabby"—a coastal building material made by mixing lime, water, sand, oyster shells, and ash—these walls tell many stories. Archaeological research reveals that the oyster shells came from ancient Native American shell middens (piles) nearby. At the same time, the construction techniques reflect West African building traditions brought by Africans forced into slavery along the Carolina coast.
- Stop for a midday meal at MellyMel's food truck which serves up delicious Lowcountry and Gullah cuisines, along with Latin and Mexican favorites.
- Swing by Spanish Wells Seafood and Produce for local, seasonal Lowcountry fare. Conveniently, next door is Binya, a favorite for Gullah and West African inspired art, fashion, and gifts.
Evening
- Return to Hilton Head for a Juneteenth event or food or music festival (depending on the season).
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