Preserving and sharing the history and ecology of the Cole Island environs for the benefit of the community
Cole Island History and Legacy
Cole Island, near Charleston, SC is a private barrier island with ecological and historical significance. The Cole Island marsh hosted defenses during the War of 1812, Confederate and Union troops during the American Civil War, and played a role in the daring escape from slavery of Robert Smalls which led to the Union's capture of Cole Island. The island is part of the Lowcountry’s extensive saltmarsh system, serving as one of the few places in the world for dolphin strand feeding, Its tidal creeks and marshes long sustained fishing and oystering, and today remain popular for kayaking and recreation. Cole Island endures as both a site of military history and a vital ecological sanctuary.
Our Purpose and Core Activities
The Cole Island Foundation is dedicated to preserving the historical, cultural, and ecological significance of a significant Lowcountry barrier island, inclusive of 250 acres of precious wetlands. We do this through:
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Hosting visitors such as educators, historians, and environmental scientists.
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Excavating, and donating found Civil War and other historic artifacts to local museums.
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Conducting research, and maintaining historical records; placing historical markers on the island.
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Advocacy to protect Cole Creek, preserving its fragile natural habitat and public access.
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Cole Island Civil War artifacts exhibited at the Museum at Market Hall
Family and local volunteers uncovering an old millstone.
The story of Robert Smalls and his time on Cole Island as part of his daring escape aboard the Confederate ship Planter, one of six island exhibits.
2025 Year in Review
In 2025, the Cole Island Foundation built a strong foundation for long-term stewardship and preservation. After securing 501(c)(3) status and launching in the Summer of 2025, we advanced conservation advocacy for Cole Creek, submitted resilience funding grants concepts, and prepared full grant proposals for 2026.
Partnerships with the Folly Beach History Museum and regional researchers strengthened historical preservation efforts, including new research into Civil War–era history and freedom routes through Cole Island. (See our complete 2025 Newsletter in Documents)
News
In January 2026, the Foundation contributed a rare book to the Folly Beach History Museum. The book, an 1887 edition of Frank Leslie's illustrated book Famous Leaders and Battle Scenes of the Civil War. The book features an 1863 sketch of troops on Cole Island and other Civil War sites in the lowcountry region. The Foundation plans to assist the Museum in its research for its next major exhibit.
Our Team.
The Cole Island Foundation is made up of a working board including Cole Island owners and family and volunteers from the Lowcountry community.
Make a donation
The Cole Island Foundation Board has seeded the Foundation and has provided pro bono support for research and activities to date. We need your help to continue to support core programs and expand historical and environmental education activities - and environmental advocacy - to a broader community.
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Make a donation
The Cole Island Foundation Board has seeded the Foundation and provides support activities and events. We need your help to continue to support core programs and to expand historical and environmental education activities to a broader
community.
Frequency
One time
Monthly
Amount
$20
$50
$100
$200
Other
0/100
Comment (optional)