War of Northern Agression Linked to Advent of Tourism on Island

The first "wave" of tourists to hit Hilton Head in any significant number happened back in 1861 when the largest amphibious landing prior to World War II came ashore on the beaches of Port Royal Plantation. Fifteen thousand Union troops stormed the small Confederate garrison and established the headquarters for the Union Army of the South on Hilton Head.

During the "troubles" this island's population rose to over 50,000. That was the first time it became profitable to feed those "damn Yankees" seafood. Today, we've dropped the "damn."