Johns Island, South Carolina

Johns Island, also spelled John's Island, is the largest island in the U.S. State of South Carolina, and the fourth largest on the East coast. It is surpassed in size by Long Island NY, Mt Desert Island ME and Martha’s Vineyard MA. Johns Island is 84 square miles in size with a population of 14,000 people and scores of wildlife species: including deer, alligators, raccoons, coyotes, bobcats, otters and wild hogs. The rivers and marshes that make this an island abound with fish and shellfish, esp. oysters, and the ever popular local dolphins. The numbers of bird species are in the hundreds. They include bald eagles, osprey, wild turkeys, owls, hawks, herons, egrets and ducks. The flora is also abundant with many native and imported species as well as agricultural crops. Originally a farming community, the island's history dates back centuries as the site of several prominent plantations, producing much of the area's rice, indigo, and cotton exports.Farming still exists today,and with the rise in popularity of local fruits, meats, and vegetables the island has experienced a rebirth in this historic function. The island's close promximity to Downtown Charleston and beautiful scenic property make it a prime location for development. Numerous high density developments have been created in parts of the island zoned into the City of Charleston. However, the vast majority of the island still rests within the jurisdiction of the County of Charleston. Despite the development, the island manages to maintained its rural character and heritage, and several restaurants and stores reflect the local culture and lowcountry flair. During the American Revolution and Civil War there were many skirmishes and battles on the island including the Battle at Rosebank Farms and the Battle of Bloody Bridge, also known as Burden's Creek.

Background

Johns Island is located to the west of James Island and to the east of Wadmalaw Island and inshore of Seabrook Island and Kiawah Island. It is separated from the mainland by the tidal Stono River, which forms part of the Intracoastal Waterway. Roughly one-third of the island is within the city limits of Charleston. The island is home to the Angel Oak, a 1400 year old Southern live oak tree, and is also known for its tomato farms and numerous other agricultural products. The population of John's Island is growing because of its proximity to Charleston. Between 2000 and 2010 the islands population grew by 50%, the largest increase in the history of the island. This trend is expected to continue but numerous conservation organizations are striving for ecologically friendly growth. Renowned for its scenic natural beauty and wildlife, several movies have been filmed on the island, including The Notebook (film). Symbiosis is crucial to maintaining the integrity of this grand Sea Island for future generations. The island was originally occupied by Native American tribes, including the Kiawah, before the English settlers reached Charleston.

The Angel Oak tree is featured prominently in the book, The Locket, by Emily Nelson. ISBN 1453669221

Education

• Charleston Collegiate School is an independent school on the island; it serves students in the Charleston area in grades K4-12.
• Angel Oak Elementary School
• Mount Zion Elementary School
• Haut Gap Middle School
• St. John's High School
• Capers Preparatory Christian Academy

Bridges

• John F. Limehouse Memorial Bridge
• Paul J. Gelegotis Memorial Bridge

References

• U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Johns Island (island)
• U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Johns Island (populated place)

External links

http://www.jicsc.org/ The Johns Island Conservancy

• Charleston Chamber of Commerce
• The Golf Club at Briar's Creek, an Audubon Signature Sanctuary
• Move to Johns Island, visitors authority resource site
• Charleston County School District