Hilton Head Island is known for its beaches, golf courses, and gorgeous Lowcountry scenery, but there’s plenty of history hiding beneath the surface. The Heritage Library is a nonprofit history and genealogy research center dedicated to preserving and sharing the island’s rich past through collections, research resources and other educational programs and tours that bring the island’s history to life. This fall, the Heritage Library is offering several opportunities to experience local history firsthand with costumed tours at two of Hilton Head Island’s historic sites.
At Zion Cemetery & Baynard Mausoleum, costumed guides will take visitors back to the Colonial era, telling stories of the people and events that shaped our very island. Tours include visits to the gravesites of four Revolutionary War heroes along with stories of a nearby Revolutionary War skirmish. The tour will also take a look inside the island’s oldest surviving structure, the Baynard Mausoleum. Upcoming tours are scheduled on select Tuesdays through November 10th, 2026.
History buffs are also able to step into the island’s Civil War past during the Heritage Library’s Historic Fort Mitchel Tours. Built in 1862 as a coastal defense, Fort Mitchel played a role in protecting Port Royal Sound and offers a glimpse into Hilton Head’s military history. An expert tour guide along with the aid of costumed characters help tell the story of the fort, General Mitchel, and its connection to historic, Mitchelville. These tours are being offered on select Thursdays through November 12th.
Annual Ghost Tours:
And as spooky season approaches, if you’re looking to get into the Halloween spirit, don’t miss the annual Ghosts and Myths of Hilton Head Island tours. Held on select evenings in October at Zion Cemetery & Baynard Mausoleum, these popular nighttime tours bring the most well-known local legends and paranormal stories to life. These tours always sell out every year and tickets are limited, so reserve your tickets as soon as you can!
Visit The Heritage Library’s website for more information about these tours or to purchase tickets.
