Monday, May 31, 2010

Honoring those who served on Memorial Day

Here's Flat Stanley with a WWII Memorial of those who served from Upper Arlington. This memorial is near what was Upper Arlington High School, (now Jones Middle School); the former location of Camp Willis.

Please take some time this long holiday week-end to honor those who've served. Is there a memorial near you?

Join Flat Stanley and me as we honor these brave individuals:
Abernethy, Adair, Albanese, Allen, Andres, Andrus, Anstatett, Anthony, Armstrong, Aschinger, Ashby, Atkinson, Auld, AuMiller, Axene, Azbell, Babb, Bailey, Baker, Barklanoff, Baldwin, Baley, Bard, Barkman, Barnes, Barr, Barrcklow, Bass, Baynes, Bweightler, Bell, Berlin, Best, Betts, Biddle, Billman, Binder, Blackburn, Blackford, Boettcher, Boggs, Bohannan, Bohmer, Bolen, Brandt, Brannan, Berehm, Bright, Brooks, Brown, Bucher, Buck, Burbridge, Burkhart, Burton, Cameron Cammarn, Carn, Canning, Carruthers, Carver, Casto, Chamberlin, Chester, Childers, Clark, Collins, Connolly, Copper, Corson, Crane, Crockett, Culbertson, Cunningham, Curtin, Dabe, Dame, Dauben, Davidson, Davies, Davis, Deckhaard, DeMey, DeVere, DeWitt, Dittoe, Dix, Dodd, Dodge, Dowdy, Duncan, Dupler, Durrant, Ebright, Edgar, Edmonds, Edwards, Emerson, Emswiler, Evans, Faehner, Fallon, Fauber, Fay, Fenner, Ferguson, Fidler, Fitzgerald, Folk, Folkerth, Forsythe, Fowler, French, Frost, Fuller, Fusco, Gardiner, Gardner, Gerrard, Garvin, Gatsch, Gessinger, Geohagan, Gerlach, Gillespie, Graf, Grafe, Greegor, Green Griffith, Grinstead, Grossman, Gruesser, Gutches, Guthrie, Hager, Haines, Hall, Hamilton, Hamlin, Hammel, Harmon, Janton, Harris, Hartzler, Hayhurst, Hays, Heath, Heinzerling, Held, Henning, Herl, Hershberger, Hetsch, Hickey, Hoagland, Hodges, Houghton, Howe, Howson, Hudson, Huntington, Ingalls, Isaacs, Isaly, Jackson, Jaefer, Jarvis, Johnson, Jones, Jordan, Junkerman, Kauffman, Kelley, Kelsey, Kennedy, Kepley, Kerschner, Khourie, Kibler, Kiefer, Kienle, Kioght, Kimes, Kimmel, King, Kionney, Kinsel, Kirk, Kirkwood, Knell, Knight, Knoderer, Knowlton, Konold, Kraft, Krause, Kutschbach, Lande, Landis, Lanich, Larrimer, Lee

That's a total of 204 names. As you can see, this is only the first half. The sun was bright the day Stanley and I were there and I couldn't read the sign. I need to go back and re-take the other portion. The 2nd photo wasn't readable I'm sorry to say.
This Vietnam Memorial honors the following for their service to their country:
Barnitz, Harlow, Joecken, Kohr, Oliver, Ritchie, Smith, Swensberger, Sherwood.

Is there a memorial near you? Please take the kids. Encourage them to draw our countries flag. Explain what the meaning of this long week-end is. Let them help you put up your flag.

Did you miss Stanley's previous Friday Adventures?

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Friday, May 28, 2010

Flat Stanley goes to Camp!

Ok, firstly let me say oophs, this post for Friday Fun with Flat Stanley was suppose to focus on Art, due to some technical difficulties that's not happening. Sorry folks, please though do check back next Friday June 4th when Stanley hopes to share some fun art with you. And remember click on all photo's to enlarge them.

Camp Willis locationThis is Flat Stanley in front of a Franklin County Historical Sign marking the location of Camp Willis. The sign indicates The National Guard was trained here in 1916 in order to go into service against Pancho Villa on The Mexican Boarder. Some 8,000 men trained here. Pancho Villa was a cold blooded killer, though loved by many. He had the reputation of a Robin Hood, stealing from the rich and giving to the poor; but he forced 18 American miners off a train and shot them in cold blood in 1916. He was ruthless many times over.

The men who trained here served under General Pershing. The camp was short lived and was dismantled in September of 1916. The need for this camp to train men interrupted the plan The Thompson brothers had for a "Garden Club Community". They had purchased land from Mr. Miller.
City of Upper ArlingtonThese historical markers are placed in a mall area in front of Jones (now middle school) High School. Upper Arlington is the birthplace of notables like Jack Nicklaus and Bev D'Angelo.
Upper Arlington 1941This fabulous old photo was published back in 1941, in The Norwester's publication was prior to Upper Arlington becoming a city. If you click to enlarge you'll see the high school, to the right where the arrow is you see the pool. Both exist to this day. The white oval in the bottom left marks where the current mall area is, the location of the historical markers noting the interruption in the planned community with the building of Camp Willis.

As always, Flat Stanley suggest word puzzles, maps, math, coloring activities to make these stories come alive. History is not dead, it is more then dates and facts of long ago, it is stories of people who lived, and loved their families just as we do. They made mistakes along the way, just as we do. Much of history teaches us what mistakes not to repeat. Remember some lessons from Upper Arlington's early history?

Til next time, Flat Stanley out.
Please check back for a Special Memorial Day with Flat Stanley and again on Friday June 4th for the Friday Fun with Flat Stanley Series.
Did you miss Stanley's previous Friday Adventures?


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Wednesday, May 26, 2010

River Street, Savannah, Georgia

sailboat*remember to click to enlarge pictures
Historic River Street in Savannah Georgia is fun even on a cloudy, rainy day. You can walk the coastline of The Savannah River and enjoy watching the boats and ships come and go. You can see pleasure boats, cruise boats/ships, and cargo ships coming and going from this busy seaport. You can sign up for a fun filled Pirate Ship Tour. This is a particularly good activity for families, the small children love it.
blocked streetThis quaint slippery, steep cobblestone street is closed off. We're at the waters edge looking back up the hill.
steep cobblestone streetCan you begin to see how steep this hill is? How old and uneven the cobblestone is? I was glad I had tennis shoes on for walking; everyone we saw with sandals and less sturdy shoes was having a time of it. It had rained and these aged and very worn stones were treacherous.
narrow River StreetLooking down the row of old businesses, you can see how narrow the street is. Savannah you might know is one of the cities saved when Sherman's troops marched through Georgia. It was deemed to pretty to destroy, so the city has many historic streets, houses, and businesses. This would have been the original main street when the port was busy transporting cotton and other trade goods.
Budweiser TruckWe're on a bridge of the now main street looking down watching the old meet the new. This narrow, slippery cobblestone street and parking lot present quite a challenge for today's modern vehicles. Note the Budweiser truck and what little space he has to turn. Note the sawdust. He had made his deliveries and could not keep up the ramp due to the steepness and how slippery the roadbed was. They had quite a team working to get parked cars out of the way in case the truck flipped, slipped, and or needed more space. They had been working on this for over an hour we were told by other interested visitors.
Stuck Budweiser TruckThe 2nd truck driver is also watching closely, assuming he'll have the same trouble. Another reminder if you haven't already done so; click on these 2 truck pictures so you can see the situation.
We spent a couple of hours walking this area, stopped for lunch, hit a few shops. A fun way to spent time in Savannah. I do hope we're able to return for a longer visit. We had driven over from Hilton Head and the weather was getting bad, fog rollin in and we felt it best to get back. The road to and from is narrow and curvy; not the best place to be in the low country when the fog moves in.

Recommendations wear comfortable supportive shoes, if you have small children use a stroller; there's too much difficult walking for them. Do a child friendly activity like the Pirate's Cruise.
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Friday, May 21, 2010

Up The Indian Mound with Stanley

stone gateIf you want to stretch your legs, run around, have a picnic and feel like a giant, come along with Flat Stanley. This activity is fun for the whole family, the kids and pets too. On the west side of McKinley Avenue in Columbus just south of Trabue Road is a large grassy mound. If you drive by fast; that may be all you'll see. Slow down and park the car; it's quite a different story. You'll see a small parking area that can accommodate a couple of cars and this stone gate. To the left of the gateway and grassy mound you'll see this 2 sided historic marker.

Adena CultureThis mound goes by a couple of names. The area, the park it self is called Campbell Memorial Park named after a man who was governor of the state for 2 short years. Probably more remarkable was his Presidency of The Ohio Historical and Archaeological Society. His daughter Jessie Campbell Coons name this area after him in 1929.

The mound is the last of The Conical Indian Burial Mounds in the city of Columbus. It's 20 feet high and 100 feet in diameter. It was placed on The National Register of Historic Places in 1970, not that long ago.

The Adena Indians date from 800 BC to 100 A.D. and are some of the earliest known settlers in the state; primarily the middle Ohio Valley. They were hunters, gatherers, traders, and farmers. Mounds that have been excavated, or partially excavated show evidence of wooded structures (houses), trash pits, fire pits, bones of important tribal leaders that were cremated, pottery, and other tokens.
Campbell Memorial ParkThe land was deeded by Mrs. Shrum to The Ohio Historic Society (formerly known as Historic and Archeological Society).
Shrum Mound MarkerAn additional marker honoring her is placed on a large boulder just beyond the historic marker.
trail on grassy Indian MoundStanley is laying there in the grass just to the left of the trail. Take time and climb to the top of mound. Once on the top like this little boy (click to enlarge picture and see how small he looks way up there on top); you can see downtown Columbus in one direction and The Scioto River in another. You get a real feel for the size of the mound and pretty fenced park area.

The mounds were made in layers. Historical evidence indicates an important tribal leader that died would be placed in a wooded house/structure and burned down as part of their burial ceremonies. Tokens would be placed with the cremated remains, then earth piled on top. When another important tribal leader died the process was repeated...over and over; thus making these mounds quite large. Over the years many of the mounds have deteriorated, some have gone by the wayside due to plowing the land, or building for exploding populations throughout the state.
The Scioto RiverThere's The Scioto River just beyond the stone wall of the park. Children enjoy running around The Mound, and following the trail up one side and down the other. Pack a picnic or snack and sit under the shade of one of the many trees so you can talk about your adventure, and perhaps catch your breathe after the climb. This Conical Mound is larger than one I recently visited in Chillicothe; Story Mound, and more accessible.

When you return home get some string....measure (let the kids help you) 100 feet. Make a circle with the string in the backyard. Let the kids burn up some more energy running around it; but also get them thinking about what all could be put in that space. As always grab maps, due math comparing the measurements, the dates etc. Paper and crayons will come in handy as the children draw what they think an Ancient Indian looked like. Make word puzzles with the words from the days adventure:
Mound
Ancient
Adena
Indians
Burial
Conical
Governor
Historical
Archaeological
Society

Do the kids know what those words mean? How bout digging out the play-dough and let them make their own Indian Mound. Ask the kids how tall they felt when they stood at the top....did they feel like a giant?

Learning can always be fun. Join me, Flat Stanley for our next adventure on Friday May 28th when Art will be the focus. Until then Flat Stanley out.

Did you miss Stanley's previous Friday Adventures?


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Sunday, May 16, 2010

Boothbay Harbor, Maine

Old Salt StatueWho doesn't love the idea of getting their picture taken next to this Old Salt? I even have a small version as a Christmas ornament. The words Old Salt conjures up images of hard working, wonderful fishermen, fireplaces at days end, and huge plate of lobster to me. This Old Salt welcomes you to Boothbay Harbor.

Historic Boothbay Harbor Inn, has much to offer you and your family for a relaxed memorable vacation. This historic Inn has been in operation since 1944, and is still owned and operated by The Brown Family; the 3rd generation. It's a proud tradition with emphasis on family. Your family will be comfortable in a quest room, efficiency, or one of the cottages. All accommodations have a view of the water and private deck.

Boothbay Harbor Maine
Boating, fishing, sailing, kayaking, shopping, whale watching, and hiking are just some of the activities one can enjoy while vacationing with friends and family in Boothbay Harbor Maine. Maybe that's more activity then you want; kick back then and read a book, or knit on your private deck. Catch the sunset and enjoy an adult beverage at the rustic Old Salt Lounge. The Old Salt Lounge dates back to the 1700's when it housed the salt needed to preserve the cod for local fishermen.

The on site restaurant serves the freshest lobster and seafood possible. You can enjoy fabulous meals inside or outside at the water's edge. Save your spot for dinner and make reservations; as this restaurant is popular with both the tourists and the locals!

There are 7 historic lighthouses in the area to explore including the 2nd oldest lighthouse in Maine, The Sequin Light in Georgetown. On line reservations make booking your special family vacation at Boothbay Harbor Hotels easy. So grab your calendar and book your fun filled family vacation today.

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Friday, May 14, 2010

First Flight and Flat Stanley

First Flight StatueWish this picture had turned out better of Mother swinging a child in great delight with hair blowing in the wind. Art can be fun, can be series, can be controversial; but who doesn't enjoy looking at a statue? Don't we all love to pose by statues. See Flat Stanley is no different. This statue, titled "First Flight" in Worthington, Ohio on High Street in the NW quadrant of The Village Green is in front of The Senior Center. It's the only publicly owned piece of art in Worthington. It was purchased in 1998.

The sculpture is Alfred Tibor, a man with a fascinating story. He was born in Feb of 1920 in Hungary with the name Alfred Goldstein. Being Jewish was beyond difficult in those days. He was a very talented gymnast. He was self taught because of being Jewish he wasn't allowed training. But through hard work and dedication, on his part he qualified for The Hungarian Olympic Team. Though he qualified, he was not permitted to attend and compete in the 1936 Berlin Olympics, simply because he was Jewish. They wouldn't let him register.

In 1940 he was a slave laborer for The Hungarian Army, and was captured by The Soviets and held prisoner for 6 long years in a Siberian Prison Camp. There were 273 men at this camp. Alfred Tibor was one of only 2 men to live through that ordeal, all others, all 271 died. He survived The Holocaust, though most his family didn't. Of the 82 members in his family, only he and his brother Andre lived.

Once freed he changed his name to Tibor after his older brother who'd been executed. He lived in Budapest for 9 years where he worked as the exhibition designer for the Government. He fled the country with his family 2 years after The Hungarian Revolution and made his way to Miami, Florida here in The United States. Sixteen years later he moved to Ohio and has produced many meaningful and beautiful pieces of art. His art can be seen in many outdoor locations around Ohio and The World.

In 2005, he was in the news, but not because of his art. He was injured and hospitalized when a Deer burst through his living room window and attacked him. He's truly a fascinating man and has been honored repeatedly for his wondrous works of art.


close up First FlightHere you can see his signature at the foot of the Statue (on the right), as well as The Statues Title.

Take the kids, walk, ride bikes, stop the car and explore what's around you. Take pictures of the kids individually in front of statues, even the young ones will enjoy it. This topic- in it's detail may not be age appropriate for all; but certainly parts of it are. A wonderful opportunity to discuss religious freedoms. What activity do the kids enjoy, ask them how fair it would be for them not to be able to do it; because they're Catholic, or because they have blue eyes, or red hair?

Have an art activity after you've been to a statue. Does your computer photo software have an option to make coloring book pages? Many do, you take your photo's and with a click can turn them into pages for the kids to color. How cool would that be, with them in the picture? Grab clay or play dough and have the kids make their own statue. As in all previous posts, there's always the math that can be done with dates and ages, places to find on the map, calculate distances, find pictures of flags to color. Make a word puzzle, or look up words in the dictionary.

Active learning is fun and so much more rewarding then too many hours in front of the TV.

Until next time, Friday May 21st Flat Stanley out.

Flat Stanley's Previous Adventures:
First adventure, books and libraries
Second Adventure, Hero or Traitor
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Monday, May 10, 2010

Mira The Newfoundland, Miramonte Wineries, Temecula, California

*remember clicking on the pictures enlarges them

Mira The NewfoundlerWe were greeted by Mira, The Newfoundland as soon as we got out of the car. She sauntered slowly over to us from her shady spot under the tree, as if on cue. Unsure where to go, we followered her to the door around back. Mira seemed to know the way. She walked up a ramp, obviously made just for her.....

Newfoundler DogShe walked behind the counter in search of someone to assist us. She continued her trek into the back room where she announced our arrival. Or at least it seemed that way; as immediately thereafter we were greeted by someone to pour wine for us.

Mira, The Newfoundler at Miramonte WineryHer job done, Mira rejoined us in the main room and laid down at our feet while we tasted wine and chatted with the hostess. We'd been sent to this particularly winery, Miramonte because I like Pinot Grigio Wine. One of the workers from another winery where we lunched (next post); suggested we make a stop here. She said they were known for their Pinot Grigio.

Miramonte was founded in 2000 and since that time has grown by purchasing additional lands to produce more grapes. They have a nice blog and webpage where you can order wine and learn more about their special Etched Bottles. Like many of the wineries in Temecula Valley, California they have a wine club, and wine tasting. They have entertainment on Friday and Sat; though we elected to avoid the crowds we experienced on our last venture to Temecula and opted for a week day visit. The etched bottles probably appeal to the younger set with a large red tongue sticking out. Not a fan personally; but the etching's were indeed not just painted on...they were etched. They also cater large group events.

porch at Miramonte WineryYou can enjoy your wine on the nice outdoor patio. Even if the weather's a bit cool table heaters are provided. The view from the patio was very nice and peaceful. We were here at the end of the business day; so once we did our tasting at the counter indoors, we made a purchase and headed back to our condo.

Wine Glasses and White WineThis nice bottle of Pinot Grigio was carefully packed in my suitcase for the journey home; as were the 2 wine glass. You keep your wine glasses from the wine tasting; as a souvenir, which is also helpful in remembering which winery you enjoyed. Once home I put colorful napkins in the glasses hoping you can see the logo for Miramonte Wineries (front and back).

The journey across the mountain pass to reach Temecula is beautiful. Lots of switchbacks and here's Ernie and I at one of the beautiful vista's along the way.

Sandy & Ernie enjoying the viewWe had a beautiful day in the sun; though it was quite windy. No doubt that's obvious to you from my blown hairdo. The valley is below us.

If you'd like to learn more about Newfoundlands, please visit my SIL's blog and be sure and tell her I sent ya. She takes part in rescues.

HEY...did you miss Stanley's adventure?
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Friday, May 7, 2010

Flat Stanley and his friend, Captain Abner Pinney

Capt Abner Pinney's gravestone and Flat StanleyHello, it's Friday and I'm here to tell you about my new friend, Captian Abner Pinney. I'm inbetween his old original stone (on the right), and his new marker and military marker. His old stone isn't in good shape, the information about my friend isn't readable any longer. He lived a long long time ago. Abner was born way back in 1750. If you want to know how long ago that was, grab a piece of paper and pencil and subtract 2010 (our current year), and 1750 (the year he was born). The answer you get tells you how long ago that was. Did you get 260? Whew, that really is a long time ago. Abner was an important man, a man I want to honor. He was born in Connecticut and was a drummer and served in The American Revolution.
Capt. Abner Pinney, Rev. War HeroHere's a close up of his modern day stone. He was a Captain and fought for our Independence from England. Because of Abner and brave men like him, we celebrate The 4th of July. He lived only a short time in Worthington, Ohio. He traveled all the way from Connecticut to Worthington, Ohio and was one of the original 38 members of The Scioto Company that took up land in this far away land after The Revolutionary War. He died on November 23, 1804. When he died his estate was valued at $452.51. He owned a pair of oxen, a wagon, harness with yolk. Those were very valuable to people who were trying to clear land and make a new home.

When you're having fun watching the fireworks, or picnicking or playing games with your friends and family on The 4th of July, please think of my friend Captain Abner Pinney. He's buried in a very historic church graveyard (St. John's) in Worthington, Ohio.

This is a great way to teach respect of those that came before us, that paved our way. Take the kids to a cemetery and look at a couple of older stones. Think about something that happend that connects with the dates. Do math, how old is the stone compared to them? Get a map find where people are from, use more math to calculate how many miles away it is. Make a drum, and pretend to be Capt. Pinney. Ask the kids why they think having an oxen would be valuable? Talk about the importance of a wagon. All kids have a wagon, what do they use it for? They put things in it, you put them in it to move around. Make the history of the story come alive and have meaning to them. Help them understand what the 4th of July is, why people ware red, white and blue. Talk about why people fly their flags on that special day. Make a word list that connect to what you've seen. Super way to learn new words.
Example:
Militia
Oxen
Revolution

Remember other good activities with kids, maps can be colored and all kids love to color. Flags of the states or the countries involved can also be fun things to color. If you missed it, pop back for Stanley's last adventure and you'll see a word puzzle; that's always something you can do as well with new words.

See you next Friday on the 14th of May. Until then, Flat Stanley out.

Flat Stanley's Previous Adventures:
First adventure, books and libraries
Second Adventure, Hero or Traitor
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Thursday, May 6, 2010

Traveling Safely in your Car

Travel season is upon use, many families will be hitting the roads for vacation when the kids get out of school for the summer. We sometimes take travel too lightly, we forget the dangers involved. Be safe, travel safe and you'll have more fun when you arrive at your destination. Practice car safety, you life may depend on it.

But before you go review this list, make sure you and your car are ready for a safe journey.
  • Have you checked your tire pressure?
  • Do you a full tank of gas?
  • Have you filled up the window washer fluid? Sometimes its' a good idea to have extra in the trunk
  • Do you a window scrapper (depending on when and where you're going, like the mountains even in summer you may need it)
  • Do you have a flash light for emergencies?
  • Do you have a cell phone charger that works in your car?
  • Does someone have your license plate number and the route you plan to travel?
  • Do take frequent breaks to stretch your legs and give your eyes a rest, change drivers if you're not alone.
  • Do you have a map along with written directions/GPS in case you run into road blocks, construction or changes that sometimes happen?
  • If you're alone, don't travel late at night.
  • Take your purse and cell phone with you when you stop to go to the bathroom, you may need them should an emergency arise.
  • Lock the car at all times, when you're in it and when you're not.
  • Do you have an extra car key in your pocket/purse? Or does the person you're with have an extra key?
  • Don't run on fumes because you don't want to stop for gas, fill up when you still have at least 1/4 of a tank. You never know when you may get in bad traffic, or exists are closed or you run into construction. Any number of things can happen. The gas may not be readily available in certain areas.
  • Many states have laws prohibiting the use of cells phones while driving without it being hands free. I love my blue -tooth for travel. You're connected if you have to make a fast emergency call, but you don't have to take your eyes off the road to make it happen. With that being said, limit your calls to necessary calls. I know I've been behind people for miles and miles who are chatting totally unaware they're changing speeds, crossing the line, and in general paying more attention to the call then the importance of driving.
  • Buckle up ALL THE TIME!
  • Don't drive barefooted. How many of you have seen someone with a foot out the window? I have, even the driver on a few occasions. That's not safe, it's just plain stupid.
  • Don't have music on so loud you can hear a siren or emergency vehicle
  • Be aware of your surroundings. Look where you are, notice who's around you. Don't walk to the restroom with your head down texting or changing your music with your earphones in. People unaware are an easy mark.
  • Don't leave valuables visible in the car, like your mp3 player, your video games, your cell phone, your purse, your GPS, your IPod, or laptop. Those are call out to would be thieves who are watching and waiting for their opportunity.
Now enjoy yourself, and happy traveling.

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Monday, May 3, 2010

Fish Hall Plantation, Barkers Field, Hilton Head, South Carolina

Barker FieldOdd you might think to see an historic marker along side a small community baseball diamond. Must admit as we pulled the car off the road, so did I. I wondered what the story behind Barkers Field was.
Thomas Fenwick Drayton historical markerA close up of the sign indicates a Confederate Brigadier General named Thomas Fenwick Drayton fought the Battle of Port Royal in this area. The Battle of Port Royal was a decisive battle during The Civil War. 18 Union Warships bombarded the Confederates at Fort Walker. Under the leadership of General Thomas Sherman 13,000 Union soldiers landed on the beach and established an important blockade. This battle was one of the earliest amphibious operations of the war. General Drayton's brother Captain Percival Drayton remained loyal to The United States and fought on the side of the Union forces. He commanded one of those war ships, The Pocahontas. Brother against brother, families pitted against each other made this war so very personal. I can't imagine the heartache within a family; but know throughout history there are many examples of this.
Fish Hall Plantation Historical MarkerSlightly to the right of the ball diamond along side the road is this fenced area with the above sign. This area had been a large 500 acre Plantation. The land originally given to Col. John Barnwell after The Revolutionary War. Historical research indicates early census's show's cotton was probably the primary crop grown here, as very little livestock appeared on the census. A description of the primary house said it was lordly. I've not seen a picture of it, but one count indicates early pictures of the main house agreed with the description. This was a prosperous plantation which owned 52 slaves according to the 1860 census. Thomas Fenwick Drayton married Emma Catherine Pope, the daughter of the plantations owner. Another account reported General Drayton owned 102 slaves. Perhaps he added his slaves to those already on the plantation after he and Emma married? Perhaps, as often happens there are a few discrepancies in the actual numbers.
Tabby Ruins of slaves quartersThis is one of two structures I saw, showing very little left of this once grand plantation. This is the tabby remains of a slaves' cabin, believed to be a fireplace. There's a 2nd one a short distance from this, perhaps 30 feet or so. Given what was learned from other tabby ruins, (Baynard Ruins) I assume it to be a 2nd fireplace. Seems common that 2 slave families were forced to share these cramped quarters.

In some of my research it seemed there is evidence of a building, or parts there off from this plantation still in existence; but as it's behind a gated community here on the Island it's not accessible to the general public. I found this most irritating. There were several items I found, that I believe have markers and structures to see; but the public is not permitted to see them unless on a school tour or a paid scheduled tour. In some cases it seemed the tours are only once in a blue moon; not really a company or on going; but an individual that would schedule it. Hilton Head has the reputation of being snooty, a playground for the rich and famous. While much has been protected environmentally, I personally was put off that only those living behind these gated communities or only those playing golf there for the day had access. (We attempted to see what was left of Fort Walker and were turned away at the gate of one such gated community).

The sign indicates graves were moved from this area to Drayton Cemetery. Apparently at some point the family didn't want slaves graves near their home so set aside land for a cemetery. I read one report that said this wasn't very successful, another indicated the graves were in fact moved. However, I've not yet been able to determine who is buried there. That is to say, are there unmarked burials, or are there headstones in this cemetery? Is there even a sign indicating it's a cemetery? (I've seen a few cases where if you didn't know, you really wouldn't know by looking). I've not found evidence of the burials beyond the statement graves were moved there. If I ever get back to Hilton Head, I'd like to follow up and actually find the cemetery. The Union forces established a Freeman's Village here, the only one known to have been established by The Union forces. When The Union forces came ashore that November day in 1861, many of the slaves joined forces.
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