Pin Point Heritage Museum

One of America's unique people groups, the Gullah Geechee, is the center of attention at the Pin Point Heritage Museum. 

The Pin Point community was established in 1896 by freed slaves living along the Atlantic coast. They thrived as a close-knit community, relying on the seafood industry for their livelihood. 

This museum is housed in the former A.S. Varn & Son Oyster and Crab Factory, which once was the economic backbone of the Pin Point community. The factory, which operated from 1926 until its closure in 1985, processed oysters, crabs, and shrimp, providing jobs for nearly every resident. However, environmental changes and economic shifts led to its decline, marking the end of an era for the community.

The museum preserves and shares the unique traditions, language, foodways, and daily life of the Gullah Geechee people. Visitors can explore exhibits that highlight the community's connection to the land and sea, from fishing and crabbing to the craftsmanship of handmade nets and boats. 

Combine a visit with any of the other nearby attractions and restaurants for a complete experience. After touring the museum, head to Skidaway Island State Park for a hike, a game of golf, or to enjoy water sports. Tybee Island is also nearby, as is Driftaway Cafe, known for its casual coastal cuisine. 

Through interactive exhibits, oral histories, and artifacts, Pin Point Heritage Museum offers a glimpse into a way of life that has endured for generations. The scenic marshland setting adds to the experience, making it a must-visit for those interested in history and culture.

Pin Point Heritage Museum: Fun Facts & Cool Features

A fun fact is that the historic seafood factory has been converted into an educational space. Here, visitors learn about the Gullah Geechee community through historic photographs, artifacts, and a half-hour film. It's rather fitting that the facility that once provided a livelihood is continuing to give back. 

Another highlight is the opportunity to hear stories from community members. These testimonies add a personal connection to the Gullah Geechee culture, offering insights into their religion, cooking, arts, and music.  

Also unique is their language and dialect, whose vocabulary and grammatical roots come from African and European languages. It is the only distinctly African Creole language in the United States. This language impacted traditional Southern vocabulary and speech patterns.

Visitors can also see demonstrations of traditional crafts. These include net-making for fishing, basket weaving for agriculture, and textile arts for clothing and warmth. 

The museum's setting is another standout feature. Surrounded by Georgia's tidewater marshes, it offers stunning views and a serene atmosphere. The natural backdrop enhances the storytelling, making for a one-of-a-kind immersive experience. 

As mentioned, consider combining a visit with a day trip to other landmarks, such as Tybee Island. With so much to see and do, the possibilities are endless!

A visit to the Pin Point Heritage Museum celebrates the Gullah Geechee culture, appealing to both history buffs and the curious. For these reasons, adding it to your Savannah itinerary is a must.

Getting There 

Here are step-by-step driving directions from downtown Savannah to the Pin Point Heritage Museum:

• Head east on E Bay St.
• Turn right onto E Broad St.
• Merge onto Harry S Truman Pkwy via the ramp to White Bluff Rd.
• Take the Montgomery Cross Rd exit and turn left onto Montgomery Cross Rd.
• Turn right onto Skidaway Rd.
• Continue onto Ferguson Ave.
• Turn left onto Pin Point Ave.
• Address: 9924 Pin Point Ave, Savannah, GA 31406.

Cost

Below are the costs of visiting Pin Point Heritage Museum:

• Adults: $15.00
• Children (ages 3-12): $7.00

Prices are subject to change; check their website for updates.