Horton House Historic Site

Horton House Historic Site features the ruins of a colonial residence with exposed walls constructed from tabby concrete, a coastal building material made from oyster shells, lime, and sand. The property also preserves foundation remains and includes a cemetery with graves dating back centuries.

Major William Horton built this residence in 1743 after Spanish forces destroyed his earlier house, creating one of Georgia's oldest surviving structures. The site later passed to other families who adapted it for different purposes over the following centuries.

The cemetery on the grounds holds graves of the French DuBignon family who managed the property starting in 1790. Their presence shaped the identity of this coastal settlement for generations.

The grounds are accessible year-round and equipped with educational panels that help visitors understand the history on site. The location sits on Jekyll Island where other historic sites and amenities are within easy reach.

Major Horton produced Georgia's first beer at this location while also growing crops to supply the neighboring Frederica Settlement. This early commercial activity reveals how the colony diversified its resources and supported nearby communities.

Location: Jekyll Island

GPS coordinates: 31.10190,-81.41440

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:44