Stafford Plantation St. Marys, GA 31558
About the Business
Welcome to Stafford Plantation, a captivating tourist attraction nestled within the serene beauty of Cumberland Island National Seashore, located in St. Marys, Georgia. This historical site offers a unique glimpse into the rich past of Cumberland Island, with intriguing stories and landmarks that capture the imagination.
Discover the Stafford Cemetery, where Robert Stafford, once the island’s largest and wealthiest landholder, rests alongside his family. Born on Cumberland Island in 1790, Stafford's journey from humble beginnings to prominence is a testament to the island's complex history. Visitors will also find the grave of Thomas Hutchison, a notable Scottish pro golfer who met an untimely end on the island and was laid to rest here, adding an unexpected international connection to this historic site.
While the Stafford Cemetery is a compelling stop, many visitors continue their journey to the nearby Plum Orchard Mansion, making for an enriching day trip, especially for those exploring by bike. The cemetery itself, though not the sole reason for a visit, is a must-see for history enthusiasts and cemetery aficionados.
Adjacent to the cemetery stands the Stafford House, originally built by the Stafford family and later acquired by the Carnegies. Though the original structure was lost to fire, a new home stands in its place, still privately owned but destined to become part of the national seashore, preserving its legacy for future generations.
Across from the Stafford House lies Stafford Field, once a bustling cotton plantation under Stafford and later transformed by the Carnegies into a golf course. Today, it serves as an airstrip and is a favored grazing spot for the island's wild horses, offering visitors a chance to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
Visit Stafford Plantation to immerse yourself in the history and natural beauty of Cumberland Island, where each landmark tells a story of the past, and every step reveals the enduring spirit of this remarkable place.
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Reviews
"Incredible beaches. Tremendous history and heritage. Wonderful wildlife."
"Very interesting historical stop in South Georgia."
"Robert Stafford was born at the Dungeness area 1790, buried in 1877 across from where sea cotton thrived and black hands toiled. His family worked at Dungeness during the Greene-Miller era. The Stafford story is a rags of cotton to plantation riches story. From Zabette, bought for a $1 delivered distinguished daughters who were afford privileged protection in the north. From Juda, 2 nieces for Primus Mitchell. It is Stafford who ties all the National Register Historic Districts of Cumberland together in one way or another. Like the slave quarters, burned to the ground, with just the Chimneys remaining, it is fire that consumes the original Planter House. Rebuit by Carnegies in 1901. When the rights expire, the 2nd Stafford House will become part of the National Seashore established in 1972 in order to preserve Cumberland Island."
"Robert t. Stafford. Was my father's 3rd genation grandfather. I am a 72 old black. Man livinging in va. Ret us army master seaagent. My family lives in cleveland ohio."
"Amazing place. Vegitation and scenery are amazing. The park is doing a wonderful job protecting this small piece of wood seashore."
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