Though the Spanish laid claim to Jekyll Island, the English were actually responsible for establishing a settlement on Jekyll Island in 1735, through a land grant Major William Horton received from the Georgia Colony trustee. However, the Spanish destroyed Horton’s home in 1742. The estate was rebuilt the following year and ruins of that estate remain today.
In 1800, a French privateer named Christophe Du Bignon acquired the entire island, but during the War of 1812, the British raided the island. However, the Du Bignon family influenced the development of the island over the next century.
Throughout its history Jekyll Island has been a place where people could imagine an alternative to their normal life; a place where dreams could be built. Once a winter retreat called Jekyll Island Club, it became the playground for the wealthy at the turn of the 20th century. Later on, it became a favorite place for vacationers who wanted to imagine basking in the affluence and luxury enjoyed by the rich and famous.
The State of Georgia purchased Jekyll Island in 1947 and converted it to a state park. However, the cost of getting the island ready for visitors began to mount, and the island was removed from the State Park System. It was organized into a separate entity, the Jekyll Island Authority, in order to become self-sustaining.
The Jekyll Island Authority has made several improvements and enhancements including a convention center, golf courses, a soccer complex, bicycle paths, improved miles of public access to beaches, and has elevated its Historic District to National Historic Landmark status.
While by law, 65% of Jekyll must remain in its natural condition, the other 35% can be developed. Therefore, Jekyll Island GA real estate offers homes in a unique location surrounded by the island's natural beauty. Most of the homes are single-family residences, with a sprinkling of duplexes. Jekyll Island is a great place for a full-time residence or a second/vacation home. Jekyll Island GA real estate has many choices to offer. Come and live your dream!
|